When it comes to finding the finest water ice in Philadelphia, several standout establishments beckon both locals and visitors alike.
From beloved family-run shops steeped in tradition to innovative vendors pushing the boundaries of flavor, Philadelphia offers a diverse array of options to satisfy any water ice enthusiast's palate. Cool down at one of these beloved water ice spots.
C & C Creamery
Established in 1955, C & C Creamery is a Philly staple and has been hand-making ice cream and water ice on-site ever since. They have a list of rotating flavors that guests can enjoy on-site, or they can grab something to-go through the drive-thru!
What to get: Strawberry lemonade water ice, or try a water ice shake!
Location: 5461 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia
Phone: 215-487-1920
Hours: noon-10 p.m. daily
D'Emilio’s Old World Ice Treats
Chris D’Emilio, owner of D'Emilio's Old World Ice Treats, began his water ice career after leaving his job as a casino dealer. D’Emilio is celebrated for creating unique flavors of water ice (or “sorbetto” as they like to call it) and a new menu is posted daily!
What to get: Amalfi peach tea sorbetto
Location: 1928 E Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia
Phone: 215-514-3930
Hours: 5:30-10 p.m. Thursday-Sunday; closed Monday
Dre’s Homemade Water Ice and Ice Cream
Andre Andrews, owner of Dre’s Southern Style Ice Cream, launched one of the most dynamic new ventures in the Delaware Valley by initially selling water ice from a pushcart in local neighborhoods. Dre’s Southern-Style Ice Cream is now sold year-round at 11 Brown's Family Shoprite locations and more than 100 Walmart stores across the Southern region. The mobile carts and trucks are located throughout the city, including spots like LOVE Park.
What to get: Half and Half, lemon and cherry
Location: See Instagram for latest locations
Phone: 484-381-0689
Hours: Hours vary on cart location
Fred's Water Ice
Fred’s Water Ice is a great spot to grab lunch along with your water ice! With sweet and savory options, your craving can be satiated all in one stop.
What to get: Sour apple water ice
Location: 5343 Chester Ave., Philadelphia
Phone: 215-726-1918
Hours: 9 a.m.-midnight daily
Jimmy's Water Ice
Jimmy and Michelle Cialella, a husband-and-wife duo, carry on the legacy begun by Jimmy's father 25 years ago. They delight their patrons with their deliciously refreshing water ice flavors, as well as other sweet treats, pizza pretzels and more delicious offerings.
What to get: Swedish Fish water ice
Location: 2251 S Front St., Philadelphia
Phone: 215-465-4669
Hours: 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. daily