Picture this: You just ordered food online for delivery or carryout, and it’s a scorcher outside. All you can think about is a refreshing way to cool off and treat yourself after your meal. Well, we have some pretty sweet ideas for you. From classic Italian favorites to trendy concoctions you may not have tried yet, there's something here for everyone to enjoy. To make things even better, we're highlighting some Menufy restaurant partners that offer these delightful desserts.
1. Italian Ice
This vibrantly colored, semi-coarse sorbet is a summertime staple. Its icy texture and refreshing sweetness make it perfect on a hot summer day. Enjoy a cup of Italian ice on its own for a simple pleasure, or pair it with a fluffy cloud of cotton candy for a nostalgic twist.
Rosie's Gourmet Italian Ices in Pembroke Pines, FL, offers a variety of flavors, including pineapple, pina colada, lemon, strawberry, and so much more. Yum!
2. Gelato
Denser and richer than ice cream, gelato boasts a smoother, more intense flavor thanks to its lower air content. While delicious by itself, gelato can also be enjoyed affogato style—drowned in a shot of hot espresso for a delightful textural and temperature contrast.
At Konos Gelato in South Miami, FL, you can order gelato affogato style or served in a delicious waffle cone.
3. Halo-Halo
This layered Filipino shaved ice dessert offers a beautiful and flavorful explosion in every bite. Halo-halo traditionally combines sweetened beans, fruits, jellies, leche flan, and shaved ice. For an extra-decadent experience, try topping your halo-halo with a scoop of ube (purple yam) ice cream.
If you are Filipino, you’ve probably heard about Max’s Restaurant, which has locations across the United States, Canada, and the Philippines. The menu features traditional entrees and, of course, halo-halo. If you live near a Max’s Restaurant, you must give it a try!
4. Paletas
These Mexican popsicles are a refreshing and fun treat, especially for kids. Made from fresh fruits, cream, or even chili peppers, paletas come in a wide variety of flavors. For a sweet and savory combination, enjoy a paleta alongside a serving of spiced mango with chamoy.
If you live in Chicago, IL, check out Razpachos! They offer ice, fruit, cream, premium ice cream paletas, and other delicious snacks and beverages.
5. Smoothie Bowl
This trendy frozen treat is as healthy as it is delicious. A thick smoothie base is poured into a bowl and topped with a variety of fresh fruits, granola, nuts, and seeds. For a complete meal, add a dollop of nut butter or protein powder.
Acai Tasty in Miami Beach, FL, has got you covered when it comes to delicious smoothie bowls. They offer wellness shots and protein shakes too. A tasty treat and it’s healthy? Sign us up!
6. Rolled Ice Cream
This visually entertaining dessert involves spreading a thin layer of ice cream batter over a frozen metal pan and chopping it into delightful rolls. Rolled ice cream comes in various flavors and can be customized with your favorite toppings. Fruity options such as chopped strawberries or mango pair well with this frozen treat, or you can take a more decadent route and add chocolate sauce and whipped cream.
Freezing Thai Rolled Ice Cream & Bakery in Lincoln, NE, has so many rolled ice cream flavors that you're sure to find a flavor you’ll love. Their menu also includes boba tea!
7. Custard
While not technically “frozen,” custard offers a rich and creamy alternative to the other treats on this list. Custard can be enjoyed on its own or served with your favorite dessert toppings, including sprinkles, fudge, or your favorite candy bar crumbles.
Jimmy’s Frozen Custard in Port Huron, MI, is your one-stop shop for all things custard. They are famous for their banana split, but everything on their menu looks delicious!
Last Bite
No matter your preference, there's a perfect frozen treat out there to beat the summer heat and satisfy your sweet tooth. So find some shade or stay in the A/C (we won’t judge), and cool off with one of these delightful summertime treats!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
NIKKI FINLEY, SR. DIGITAL MARKETING SPECIALIST
Nikki got her start in the restaurant industry when she was 15. She also spent some time working at tech startups in Chicago. Utilizing her many years of experience in the restaurant and tech space, she’s spent the last 5 years assisting Menufy clients with their premium marketing services.