Chinatown Ice Cream Factory - scooponcones.com

the scoop on cones

This Chinatown institution is known for its exotic flavors and doesn’t disappoint. We were delighted to find Durian ice cream, which we had heard of but feared existed only in legend, something like Bigfoot.

Actually, Durian ice cream smells a lot like we imagine a Sasquach would, a nasty reek of fungus-feet and rotting trash. The ice cream tastes about the same, but is softened by the creamy base and also has a subtle onion flavor. This is not a criticism. Durian is a really gross fruit, which was nicely turned into ice cream.

For those who are adventurous, but not quite that adventurous, Almond Cookie was delish, and the Sesame Seed was some of the best we’ve tried. They also offer Taro, Egg Custard, Green Tea, Red Bean, Wasabi and more.

The shop is tiny and a lot like Chinatown itself, crowded and chaotic with curt Asian workers barking orders and white tourists looking bewildered and standing in the way. Only two samples are allowed per person, so choose wisely.

Hours: 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. daily

Price: $3.99 single scoop

Phone: 212-608-4170

Website: www.chinatownicecreamfactory.com