It’s mid-July, so you know what that means: the dog days of summer are here, and there’s no better time for ice cream. In this blazing Florida heat, nothing picks you up faster than a cold scoop. Just holding that chilly cone brings quick relief from the humidity, and those sweet, creamy bites not only taste incredible, they actually reboot your energy and your mood.
Why do we all flock to ice cream shops this time of year? For starters, Florida’s heat index often creeps past 100°F, so eating ice cream really helps cool you down from the inside out.
Beyond temperature, there’s science behind that smile on your face: the sugar and fat get your brain pumping out dopamine and serotonin, so you feel happier and, honestly, ready for anything. Don’t forget, real dairy ice cream also packs nutrients like calcium, Vitamin A, and B12, which is good news for your bones and immune system. And, of course, grabbing a cone from a local shop is a perfect excuse to cool down, chat with neighbors, and get out into Englewood.
Need ideas for local ice cream spots? The Englewood REVIEW has you covered. Here are a few of our favorite shops in town:
Lickity Split Cafe
This spot’s a go-to for more than just ice cream. Sure, the homemade flavors are a hit, but don’t skip their burgers, sandwiches, salads, and even quiche. Lickity Split offers extra treats; they now make fresh fruit bouquets and strawberries dipped in chocolate. These bouquets make beautiful gifts or edible centerpieces, and you can pick one up or have it delivered. The staff’s always happy to help, and they love seeing familiar faces return. Stop in to see the selection, pick up something for yourself, or call to order a bouquet. Either way, the friendly folks at Lickity Split are grateful for the support from the Englewood community.
Located in Englewood
2828 S. McCall Rd, Ste 5, Englewood, FL 34224
941-474-2185
Click here for more information about Lickity Split Cafe.
The Arctic Alligator Creamery
Founded in 2019, Arctic Alligator Creamery makes some of the best small-batch ice cream around, using fresh Florida dairy and all-natural colors and flavors. Their team of “flavorologists” makes everything fresh, and they source ingredients locally when they can. Besides ice cream, you’ll find cakes, shakes, and baked treats made daily. If you want to taste inventive, high-quality creations made right here in Englewood, you don’t want to miss Arctic Alligator Creamery.
Located in Englewood
3385 S Access Rd Unit 1, Englewood, FL 34224
941-460-3647
Click here for more information about The Arctic Alligator Creamery.
A Better Scoop Ice Cream Shoppe
A Better Scoop opened in 2009 and has been a true mom-and-pop shop ever since, run by Kevin and Sarah Gleba, Englewood locals who really love ice cream (so much so that they also run Arctic Alligator Creamery).
A Better Scoop is all about making ice cream the old-fashioned way, with local, fresh ingredients. The staff’s known for being cheerful and welcoming, and they’re always on the hunt for the very best recipes, so much so that they opened their own production facility to keep quality sky-high. If you want to taste the pride and passion of local owners, you know where to go.
Located in Englewood
70 S Indiana Ave, Englewood, FL 34223
941-473-2650
Click here for more information about A Better Scoop Ice cream Shop.
Uncle Louie G
Sometimes, there’s just nothing quite like authentic Italian ice. Uncle Louie G serves classic Italian ices and ice cream, and their flavor lineup seems endless. Seriously, check the menu, featuring over 90 Italian ice flavors, including vegan, sugar-free, and dairy-free options, plus specialty treats like Belgian waffle sundaes and chocolate lava explosions. On top of that, you’ll find espresso, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches. If you love variety and want to try something new each visit, Uncle Louie G is your spot.
Located in Publix Super Market at Gulf Cove
13435 S McCall Rd Unit 6, Port Charlotte, FL 33981
941-688-4182
Click here for more information about Uncle Louie G.
Made in the Shade Ice Cream
If you’re looking for that old-school ice cream shop vibe, Made in the Shade is calling your name. They’ve got a legit jukebox, retro decor, and a huge menu: vegan ice cream, shakes, floats, sundaes, cotton candy, snow cones, and probably your favorite old-fashioned bottled soda. Outside, you’ll find covered seating and space to bring your pup along. Inside, check out their mini museum of vintage memorabilia or try your luck at vintage arcade games and pinball. They even make homemade dog ice cream and treats, so everyone leaves happy.
Located in Feodor’s Plaza
2411 S McCall Rd Ste A/B, Englewood, FL 34224
941-681-2204
Click here for more information about Made in the Shade Ice Cream.
When the summer heat in Englewood feels impossible, you know what to do. Grab a friend, pick a shop, get yourself a cone, and enjoy the sweet taste of summer.
