Best Ice Cream Shops in Birmingham

Afghan Sheeryakh is a unique and traditional Afghan ice cream, celebrated for its distinctive chewy texture and aromatic flavors. It’s a dessert deeply rooted in Afghan culinary heritage and enjoyed across the country and within Afghan communities worldwide. The origins trace back to the Achaemenid Empire of Persia, with Alexander the Great reportedly enjoying similar frozen desserts. Modern adaptations retain traditional methods and ingredients, reflecting Afghanistan’s dairy production and fondness for spices. It’s a creamy dessert flavored with saffron, cardamom, rose water, and vanilla. Variations exist regionally, but the core elements remain consistent. Key ingredients include milk, cream, sugar, cardamom, saffron, rose water, vanilla extract, cornstarch, and pistachios. The preparation involves boiling milk, cream, sugar, and spices, then adding cornstarch to thicken it. This mixture is frozen in molds or containers and stirred regularly. While a dessert, it offers calcium, anti-inflammatory properties, and refreshment. It’s enjoyed as a standalone dessert or paired with Afghan sweets and bread. It distinguishes itself from other ice creams through its milk-based composition, natural flavorings, lack of churning, and nut garnishes. Preparation is relatively straightforward, taking about 10 minutes for the mixture and 8 hours for freezing.

McNabs Cash & Carry Ltd is a well-established ice cream manufacturer and retailer based in Birmingham. Reviews consistently praise the quality of their ice cream, describing it as "the best in the whole of the UK." The company is known for its friendly staff, particularly Ian the delivery driver, who is frequently described as helpful and a "true gem." Many customers highlight the reliability of their deliveries and the consistent quality of the ice cream over several years. While some reviews mention a single negative experience regarding delivery van safety, the overwhelmingly positive feedback focuses on the excellent customer service, friendly staff, and high-quality products. The company seems to be a reliable supplier for ice cream vans and a popular choice for local consumers. Notably, there is currently no mention of healthy ice cream options available.

Cream Curls is a rapidly expanding dessert and food business specializing in rolled ice cream and a variety of other sweet treats. They’ve grown from a small shop in Newcastle to operating nine locations across the UK, with plans for further expansion. The business is managed through a franchise model, offering potential entrepreneurs the opportunity to own and operate a Cream Curls store. The business’s unique flavor profile originated from a period of experimentation and trial and error, stemming from a small initial shop in Newcastle. The success of the original location led to rapid expansion across the UK. Cream Curls offers a diverse menu beyond their signature rolled ice cream, including: Crepes, Waffles, Milkshakes, Milk Cake, Burgers, Waffle Pizzas, and a wide selection of flavored rolled ice cream. They also provide online ordering through their app and website, allowing customers to enjoy Cream Curls at home. Cream Curls is committed to providing the best possible experience for its customers, both in-store and through their online ordering platform. Reviews mention a friendly atmosphere, good service, and delicious desserts, but some customers have noted higher prices and occasional issues with wait times. The business is currently seeking franchisees with full support and excellent returns.

Simon & Sons Ice Cream Van is a traditional ice cream business operating from a 1995 Ford Transit. Currently, information about the business is primarily found through social media channels and a Flickr photograph. Details regarding the specific offerings, operations, and history are limited. Reviews consistently praise the friendly service, generous portions, and delicious ice cream, often highlighting its use for workplace events and parties. Several reviewers mention the van’s consistent presence in the community and the owner’s dedication to providing a memorable experience. Despite the limited online presence, customers consistently express satisfaction with the quality of the ice cream and the overall service. The business appears to be a beloved local favorite, known for its reliability and cheerful operation.

Rods Ice Cream Hire is a mobile caterer specializing in ice cream, operating primarily in the Birmingham area. Reviews consistently praise the quality and freshness of their ice cream, describing it as creamy, rich, and full of flavor. The van is consistently described as spotless and well-maintained, contributing to a positive customer experience. They offer a wide selection of flavors and toppings, catering to various preferences. The business is committed to food safety, holding a food hygiene rating and providing clear information to customers. Many customers specifically mention the friendly and patient staff, particularly with children, and the generous portions. Several reviews highlight their use at events, including weddings, and the positive feedback received from attendees. While some reviews mention a higher price point, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the exceptional service and delicious ice cream. One review noted a salmonella incident, but the business has responded and maintains a high hygiene rating.

LA-POP! is a unique business centered around a specific music genre – "LA Pop" – and a wellness service focused on spinal alignment. The brand leverages its connection to the music genre through merchandise and music data analysis, while simultaneously offering a range of spinal adjustment services. It originated in Latin America in the late 1990s, blending Latin American musical styles with pop, rock, and hip-hop influences. The business gained some notoriety when a headphones t-shirt featuring the LA Pop genre was featured in season 5 of the television show *Breaking Bad*. LA-POP! Wellness provides spinal adjustment services aimed at improving flexibility, reducing pain, and promoting overall health and longevity. They offer three service packages: Premier Pass, Pop Star, and Super Star, each with varying levels of adjustments and discounts. The tagline is "Lets get poppin." and the mission is to help individuals achieve a "better life" through spinal alignment. The business also integrates with Spotify, allowing users to view their listening statistics and discover new music within the genre.

Ice Cream Van Hire 4 Events is a well-established ice cream service provider based in the Midlands, specializing in providing ice cream vans for a wide range of events. With over 25 years of experience since 1995, they are renowned for their reliability and commitment to exceptional customer service, catering to events from weddings and corporate gatherings to festivals and school fairs. They offer a unique experience, including the option for customers to create their own ice cream. Reviews consistently highlight their top-quality ice cream, friendly service, and ability to cater to diverse events, from children’s parties to weddings and corporate functions. Some customers have specifically mentioned the success of the van at charity events and baby showers. While some reviews mention the service being amazing, others have noted a lack of ice cream options. The business is fully insured and hygiene certified, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. They offer a unique custom ice cream option and dedicated packages for charity events.

Sundaes Gelato Birmingham is a popular dessert shop known for its high-quality gelato, waffles, and sundaes. It has a mixed reputation, with many customers praising the delicious flavors and friendly service, particularly the unique and customizable sundaes featuring popular treats like Ferrero Rocher and Lotus Biscoff. However, some reviews mention issues with inconsistent service, particularly regarding wait times and staff attentiveness. The shop is known for its local inspiration and community involvement. While it offers a decent selection of savory options, the focus is primarily on sweet treats. The website highlights a 10% discount for online orders and a "Spend £30 & Get £15 Back" promotion. Despite some inconsistencies, it remains a well-regarded dessert destination in Birmingham.