Finding safe and delicious treats when you have food allergies is never easy. For years, my family struggled to enjoy something as simple as going out for ice cream together. Most shops use dairy, nuts, or gluten in nearly everything they make, and even when there are âallergy-friendlyâ options, cross-contamination risks make them stressful to trust. Thatâs why discovering this small, local ice cream shop that specializes in Italian water iceâcompletely nut-free, gluten-free, and dairy-freeâhas been life changing for us.
From the very first visit, we could tell this shop was different. The staff were knowledgeable and transparent, clearly labeling their ingredients and assuring us that everything they serve is safe for families like mine. For once, we didnât have to hover with anxiety. My kids could actually relax and pick flavors without fear, which is something most people take for granted but means the world to those of us dealing with allergies.
And the best part? The water ice is absolutely delicious. This isnât a âsubstituteâ or second-rate optionâitâs a treat anyone would love. The texture is smooth and refreshing, never icy or bland, and every flavor bursts with real, vibrant taste. Our family favorites are lemon, cherry, mango, and strawberry, but the shop rotates flavors often, so thereâs always something new to try. Even our relatives without allergies rave about how good it is. No one feels like theyâre missing out.
Beyond the product, the shop itself is a joy to visit. It has a cheerful, welcoming atmosphere, and you can always find families gathered outside on warm evenings enjoying their treats. The owners clearly care about their customers and treat everyone like neighbors, greeting us warmly and making the experience feel personal. Itâs not a faceless chainâitâs a family-run business that values community.
For my family, this shop has become the backdrop for so many happy memories. Weâve celebrated birthdays here, cooled off after hot summer days, and even turned tough days around with a quick stop for water ice. Itâs a place where we can finally participate in the simple tradition of grabbing dessert together, without fear or stress. That sense of inclusion and safety is priceless.
What makes this business truly special is that inclusivity isnât an afterthoughtâitâs the foundation. Theyâve proven that you donât need dairy, nuts, or gluten to create a product thatâs every bit as crave-worthy as traditional ice cream. In fact, their Italian water ice is better than most ice cream shops weâve tried.
If I could give this shop more than five stars, I would. Theyâve given my family peace of mind, delicious desserts, and countless joyful moments. Whether you have allergies or not, this is a place worth supporting. Itâs more than just dessertâitâs community, care, and happiness in a cup. Weâll be loyal...
   Read moreI stumbled upon this business' location at the Lynn Family Stadium during the Lou City FC game on 5/13/23.
Since I am dairy-free, my options were limited to the Italian Water Ice, and it did NOT disappoint. I ordered the Strawberry Lemonade Italian Water Ice and it was fire! it was the perfect combination of tart and sweet. I was pleasantly surprised that it did not melt quickly, even with being outside with 80 degree temps.
I loved the Strawberry Lemonade so much, that on my way leaving the stadium I went to buy one to take home. They were sold out of that flavor, so I tried the Orange Cream. I put it in the freezer and the next day indulged in it, and it was just as delicious, very much like the old school creamsicles.
The staff were helpful and cool. They told me about their location on 307 Wallace in St. Matthews and I will definitely be visiting...
   Read morePhiladelphia water ice is what folks outside the area refer to as "Italian ice", but the decor and soft pretzels are a definite giveaway to this business's East Coast roots.
This stuff is super-delicious either on its own OR layered with any of their homemade ice creams. Friendly owners, great staff, and amazingly incredible deliciousness. The only downside is they're now waaaaaay too close to my house! ;-)
COVID PRECAUTIONS: Staff fully masked (including noses) Gloves used (and frequently changed) Plenty of hand sanitizer available Floor markings for distancing Tasting samples given in individual cups with wrapped wooden paddles
ALLERGEN INFORMATION: All the water ice is dairy-, gluten-, nut-, and soy-free;...
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