Summer in Montclair means sunshine, good vibes, and — of course — cold, delicious desserts. Whether you’re a lifelong local or new in town, there’s no better way to cool off than with a scoop of ice cream, a creamy gelato, or a unique frozen dessert. From classic cones to trendy international treats, here’s your guide to the best ice cream shops and sweet spots in and around Montclair, NJ.
🍦 Top Independently-Owned Ice Cream + Dessert Shops in Montclair
Absolute Zero 410 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
If you’re into ice cream with a twist, Absolute Zero offers Thai-style rolled ice cream made right before your eyes. “Camp Chill” is a crowd favorite — creamy, crunchy, and super Instagram-worthy.
Applegate Farm 616 Grove Street, Upper Montclair
This Montclair staple has been serving sweet scoops since 1848. Go for their classic cones or treat yourself to ice cream pies, cakes, and sandwiches. It’s tradition in a cone.
Benvenuti 20 Church Street, Montclair
This family-owned Italian gelateria serves up handcrafted, rotating flavors of gelato — plus vegan and CBD-infused options. Inspired by the Italian evening gelato stroll, this is a must-stop downtown.
🍨 More Must-Try Ice Cream Shops Around the Area
Cliff’s Homemade Ice Cream Ledgewood, NJ
Choose from 60+ hand-dipped flavors like Holy Cannoli and Graham Central Station. This roadside favorite is always buzzing in summer.
Thomas’ Ice Cream Café Jefferson Street, NJ
More than just ice cream — this spot offers flatbreads, pizza, and nostalgic treats like soda floats and coffee Oreo shakes.
Torico 20 Erie Street, Jersey City
Expect long lines, but it’s worth it for the small-batch flavors, ice cream cakes, and sundae boxes to-go. Try the seasonal picks!
Nicholas Creamery Atlantic Highlands
Perfect after a beach day. The Tahitian vanilla might sound simple, but it’s unbelievably creamy and smooth.
🍧 Cool Dessert Spots Worth the Drive
Jabal Creamery Nearby Montclair
Try their popular Kunafah and Pistachio Arabic Ice Cream — rich, flavorful, and unlike anything else in town.
Milk Sugar Love Jersey City
Offering pints, sandwiches, cakes, and even “puppy froyo” for your four-legged friends. Classic flavors and creative treats all in one place.
Jun’s Macaron Gelato Hoboken
Home of rolled gelato, macaron ice cream sandwiches, and milk snowflake ice cream — this spot blends French flair with frozen fun.
🧁 Other Sweet Treats Around Town
Mango Mango Dessert
Asian-inspired desserts like mango sago and coconut pudding — light, fruity, and perfect for a warm day.
The New West Orange Diner
Don’t skip their dessert menu — try the churro-waffle topped with passion fruit ice cream. It’s bold and delicious.
Helvaci Ali
For something different, try Turkish ice cream with warm, gooey coffee helva. A flavor-packed experience.
Cortaditos
This Cuban café does more than sandwiches — their ice cream shakes are a hidden gem.
❓FAQs About Montclair Ice Cream Stores
What are the best ice cream places in Montclair, NJ?
Top local favorites include Applegate Farm, Absolute Zero, and Benvenuti for their variety, flavor, and charm.
Where can I find vegan or dairy-free ice cream in Montclair?
Benvenuti and Alpine Creamery (Sparta) offer vegan-friendly flavors, including coconut-based and nut milk options.
Which Montclair ice cream shops stay open late?
Jabal Creamery and The French Quarter are open until midnight, perfect for those late-night sweet cravings.
Are there any ice cream spots near downtown Montclair?
Yes — Absolute Zero and Benvenuti are located right downtown and are both walkable from Church Street.
Do any shops offer unique or international frozen desserts?
Definitely. Try Jun’s Macaron Gelato (French/Asian fusion), Helvaci Ali (Turkish), or Jabal Creamery (Middle Eastern).
Whether you're a local looking to try something new or visiting Montclair for the weekend, there's no shortage of spots to grab a sweet, icy treat. Try a few, find your favorite, and enjoy the best of summer — one scoop at a time.
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