Cup or Cone? The Kensington’s Top Ice Cream Spots

Cup or Cone? The Kensington’s Top Ice Cream Spots

Whether you call those colorful candy toppings jimmies or sprinkles, there’s no better time than the present to get acquainted with Boston’s best ice cream shops. Here are a few of our favorites.

Picco puts new meaning into the tradition of homemade, with every fabulous flavor made from scratch. The decadence is in the details. (Tremont Street.)

JM Curley calls out to the kid in you with toppings and add-ons like Fruity Pebbles cereal and orange-soda syrup. You might even decide to skip dinner and go straight for dessert. (Downtown Crossing.)

Ben & Jerry’s makes even the ordering fun, with deliciously feel-good flavors like Half-Baked, Karamel Sutra and Chocolate Therapy. (Newbury Street.)

Emack & Bolio’s will stuff your favorite flavor into delicious candy-coated cones. They also offer handmade chocolates, homemade soda and terrific frappes. (Newbury Street.)

Cold Stone Creamery lets you concoct your own creations, and hand-mashes and mixes your order right before your eyes. (Belvidere Street.)

Caffé Paradiso is aptly named, with its to-die-for gelato and espresso pairings. Well worth the walk to the North End, the congenial atmosphere is half the fun. (Hanover Street.)

There’s nothing like ice cream to top off a lovely summer afternoon, and there’s no shortage of it in the Kensington’s neighborhood. Step outside and pick a direction — and have fun deciding which local shop is your favorite.