Sweet Parlor Small Batch Ice Cream Bubble tea — Attraction in Somerville

This is for the Somerville location as I have previously done a review for their Hillsborough one. We went on a Sunday and the place was hopping. Great to see. We decided to grab some pints to hopefully save some time and the owner immediately recognized that and rung us up for the 8 pints.

The flavors. Let's talk about the flavors because that is why you will want to go here. I want the most exotic or unique flavors and they did not disappoint me with Taro Almond, Honey Lavender and Pandan Coconut. The taro was lightly sweet with a wonderful texture from the almonds. The honey lavender lived up to its name but did well not allowing the lavender to overpower the honey. The pandan coconut was an experience to be had as the bright green color surprised me but I had no idea what pandan is but I do now. This was the least sweet teasing almost savory in a way. The flavor was subtle and it was chock full of big strips of coconut. They were all great in their own singular ways. I would highly recommend all three for those on the slightly more adventurous side.

But but you are basic you say. Ok so my wife and son are less interested in trying new things and that is fine too because Sweet Parlor has got you. My wife got Mango sorbet, Raspberry sorbet and Pretzel by the Ocean. The mango had these small pieces of mango in it that sent this to the highest rating possible. The raspberry was perfect. Pretzel by the Ocean played on the sweet/salty vibe which my wife loves and she ate the whole damn pint in one sitting.

Still to fancy for you? Jeez. My son got That's Bananas and Gooey Butter Cake. He loves the banana one and I will be honest I stole the butter cake one from him because he takes to long to eat ice cream.

But in all seriousness this place has something for everyone but I do highly suggest trying some flavors new to you. They give samples and you never know you might find a new favorite. Thanks to the owner and his family and I hope things continue to go...

Originally, my husband wanted to grab some boba. Since we were in Somerville, we decided to check out The Grumpy Boba. To our surprise, Grumpy Boba had closed, and Sweet Ubear had taken over. All I can say is, we were like kids in a candy store! First things first, yes, they still serve boba. Whew! But here’s the best part: they now serve ice cream sundaes in bubble waffles! It’s worth noting that all waffles are made fresh to order, so there’s a brief wait, but it’s worth it. The wait isn’t long, I promise.

They offer a variety of ice cream flavors, including classic options as well as fun and unique ones like Almond Toffee Nut, Pretzel by the Ocean, and several distinctive Asian-inspired flavors such as Black Sesame, Durian, Strawberry Lychee, Taiwanese Pineapple Cake, and Ube Brownie. Can’t decide? They’re very generous with samples to help you choose. Still unsure? You can always opt for a flight. Don’t forget to add some of their many toppings, and be sure to try their freshly whipped cream, which they make on-site.

The space is warm and inviting, with plenty of seating and even a sofa where you can relax and enjoy your treat. They also offer a reward system. You earn a point for every dollar you spend. Talk about a sweet deal!

I’ve known them since their Hillsboro location, but now they’ve opened a new spot in downtown Somerville, and I wish them continued success in this new location. This place is truly a gem for both ice cream...

Came in to order one bubble cone with no toppings and no ice cream. Staff member said that the wait time would be five minutes because the iron used to make bubble cones needed to be heated which is understandable. Walked out 25 minutes later with a burnt bubble cone. Staff member who helped me was polite and competent, but the other staff member on duty was talking and distracting other employees. Other orders were delayed as well from what I observed. Overall, if the food vendors in Chinatown can make a bubble cone in less than five minutes, I expect a restaurant catered to this food item would be able to make something even more delicious in less or equal time. Unfortunately, I was wrong. While I wish the business all the best, my family, friends, and I who were waiting there witnessing this whole thing happen will not be going back.

The two stars is for: (1) the one polite and competent worker and (2) the basic level of respect I have for small businesses that my family and I are...