DISH OF THE WEEK Ice Cream

DISH OF THE WEEK in New York: Chocolate Italian Ice at VITO’S SLICES & ICES

A few months ago I got a quick slice from Vito’s Slices & Ices and was not overly impressed. It was fine, but nothing more than typical New York pizza. Great if you’re from elsewhere, but if you’re from here, you know there are better options.

I didn’t get to try the other side of their offerings (the ices) until a recent unseasonably warm day. I was on my way to catch a bus and wanted something cold and refreshing.

When I found out that the only ice flavor they had on this particular day was chocolate, I actually thanked the guy and went on my way. I was hoping for lemon or another fruity refreshing ice. But the pull for something cold and icy was too great and I found myself back at the counter moments later settling for a chocolate.

I don’t think I was anticipating how well this Italian ice would hit the spot.

This is classic New York-style Italian ice – served in a paper cup without a spoon. The chocolate was both icy and smooth with a nice authentic roasted cocoa flavor and a restrained sweetness.

This rivals some of the ices I’ve tried in Brooklyn and Queens and would be the perfect finish to one of Vito’s passable slices. In fact, this ice could even make the slice even more nice. Price: $3.80-$14.75

VITO’S SLICES & ICES
4646 Ninth Avenue (at West 36th Street),
Midtown West
(212) 273-1186
vitosslicesandices.com

AboutBrian Hoffman

Brian Hoffman is a classically trained actor who is now a full-time tour guide, blogger, and food obsessive. He leads food and drink tours around New York City, which not only introduce tour-goers to delicious food, but gives them a historical context. He has written food articles for Gothamist and Midtown Lunch in addition to overseeing this blog and a few food video series, including Eat This, Locals Know, and Around the World in One City. His latest series is an international cooking show with his son which can be found on this site.