Sometimes I want a simple, classic ice cream cone. Other times, I want something innovative, extravagant, and eye-catching. These are unique ice cream treats in the Triangle that you won’t be able to resist taking a picture of. The best part? They taste as delicious as they look.
Ice Cream Brûlée from Andia’s (Cary, Raleigh, & Durham)
Andia’s is known for its imaginative flavors and ice cream creations. Perhaps the most exciting menu item is the ice cream brûlée, which features their homemade vanilla ice cream topped with sugar brûléed right in front of you. Make sure to have your phone ready— it makes for a fun video! The crunchy, caramelized sugar topping with the creamy vanilla base is spectacular.
Dipped Cones from Simons Says Dip This (Durham & Raleigh)
Simons Says Dip This is a sweet adventure where customers can create their own dipped cones using tons of ingredients. You can pick a core for your cone, one of 24 flavors to dip it in, and a variety of toppings to roll it in. The options are endless.
I loved my cookie butter and cookie dough cone while Harrison enjoyed his cake batter creation. These are seriously delicious, and you’ll want to keep returning to try new combinations!
Churro Funnel Cake Sundae from Vida Dulce (Cary, Clayton, & Knightdale)
Vida Dulce brings Mexican snacks and treats to the triangle, including popsicles, ice cream, churros, street corn, fruit cups, and more. If you have an extra big sweet tooth, you’ll love the churro funnel cake sundae. It’s ridiculous in the best way—multiple fair foods on one plate. Heaven, right?
Cotton Candy Train Wreck from Dairy Depot (Wake Forest)
Dairy Depot is such a fun spot, especially for kids. They have tons of permanent and seasonal creations that local families go wild for. Our personal favorite is the cotton candy train wreck. It’s cotton candy ice cream with cotton candy crunchies mixed in and topped with a handful of cotton candy. I know how it sounds, but trust me on this one. I’ve gotten so many people hooked on it, and it’s your turn now.
Waves Shave Ice (Holly Springs)
Waves began as a beloved local food truck serving up authentic Hawaiian shave ice, and they now have a permanent location in Holly Springs. They combine naturally flavored shave ice with homemade premium ice cream and fruit for a refreshing explosion of tropical flavor. These are unreal in taste and so pretty in appearance!
Soft Serve Margaritas from Dos Taquitos (Raleigh)
Dos Taquitos was the first restaurant to bring soft serve margaritas to the area, and the crowd went WILD. These refreshing alcoholic beverages quickly became one of their most popular menu items. They offer Raspberry with Stoli Raspberry Vodka and Vanilla with Pinnacle Whipped Vodka, or you can get a swirl!
Bingsoo from Sweet Talk Cafe (Apex)
Sweet Talk Cafe is dedicated to specialty coffee and Asian-inspired desserts. Bingsoo is a Korean milk-based shaved ice treat that is gorgeous AND delicious! They offer numerous flavors and toppings that are so refreshing and fun. Our team loves the Strawberry Hearts flavor, which features strawberries, cheesecake bites, mochi, graham cracker crumbs, and strawberry ice cream. Amazing.
Know of any other amazing, unique ice cream treats in the Triangle? Let us know! We are excited to grow this list.
Yummmmyyyy!
Have you also been to La Vida Dulce in Cary? I love their mangonadas there!