A sweet treat notoriously associated with summer—ice cream—transcends culture and time. A welcome just dessert that no one can deny. Join us in yielding to those cravings. For July, we rounded up the best local ice cream companies and shops that will satisfy your sweet tooth in these warmer months.
Marco Ice Cream, a Denver-based company founded in 2021, sources fresh ingredients to create their unique flavors inspired by different cultures and gastronomy from around the world. There is Turkish Mocha, Moroccan Honey Nut, Aztec Chocolate and so much more. Sold across the country, find Marco Ice Cream at your local grocer. Delve into your very own pint ASAP. marcoicecream.com
Missing the warm sandy beaches of Hawaii? Get back on island time with a trip to Punch Buggy. Whether on wheels or in-store, Punch Buggy Shave Ice is the perfect remedy for a hot summer day. Their shaved ice is all-natural with no artificial flavors, colors or sweeteners. Not only is it good for your palette, but it’s good for the planet too! Punch Buggy incorporates sustainable practices into their business model, serving their sweets in compostable bowls with compostable cutlery. Visit their shops in Louisville and Lafayette or their “Punch Trucky” parked in Erie all summer long. punchbuggyshaveice.com
For our non-dairy or vegan folks (and everyone in between), check out Best One Yet, a 100% plant-based product made of organic ingredients that highlights local flavors (think juicy peach)! Often seen driving around the Boulder area offering up creamy deliciousness, sample their flavors on wheels or in stores. bestoneyetvegan.com
Gotta love Gelato Boy! Get a taste of Italy at this local favorite delighting the Front Range with its unique flavors and design aesthetic since 2012. Prioritizing authenticity, not only in the product but also behind the scenes, everything is made in-house with the best ingredients. If you’re vegan, love dairy, or are gluten-free, there is something for you at Gelato Boy. Want a night-in on the couch? Don’t sweat, Gelato Boy has purchasable pints in-shop or at your local grocery store for those late-night hankerings. gelatoboy.com
Embrace the comfort of smooth creaminess and saccharine savoriness. Each of these yummy yet healthy options takes you back to those nostalgic summer vacations, sitting on the fresh grass with the sprinkler running and the sun on your face. Don’t deny yourself those cravings or nostalgia.