Gracie's Ice Cream

By Eric Twardzik · 06/26/2019 Somerville · Ice Cream · $

Gracie’s Ice Cream in Union Square boasts a beguiling array of imaginary ingredients. From “rainbow extract” and “unicorn whispers” to “essence of thunder” and “hugs,” they’re spelled out along the tongue-in-cheek mural that wraps around the tiny shop’s counter space.

Said ice cream may not contain actual hugs, but it is made directly on-site. That creative control has birthed 136 flavors since 2015, though only 12 are offered each day: six unchanging “always” flavors and six rotating “sometimes” flavors.

The former category includes the smooth-yet-savory Salty Whiskey, a perfectly crunchy Black Raspberry Chip, and a round, rich Chocolate that’s everything you’ve ever wanted from the second-most-obvious flavor of ice cream.

Gracie’s has also pioneered new methods of ice cream delivery. Order an ice cream sandwich, and you’ll be handed a panini-like block of vanilla wedged between pressed Fruity or Cocoa Pebbles. Order a fluff cone, and you’ll receive a sugar cone lined with torched, gooey Marshmallow Fluff.

Of course, the mess will be worth it.

Did you think Netflix and Ben & Jerry’s was the chillest combo? Ask about Gracie’s CBD ice cream, which you can carry home by the pint or quart.

One of the 12 flavor spots on the menu is always devoted to a non-dairy sorbet.

Follow @graciesflavors on Instagram to get a daily update of available flavors.

Must Haves

Salty Whiskey
This flavor satisfies sweet and salty cravings at once. Its mellow, vanilla-like start melds into a savory, rye whiskey-tinged kick.
Black Raspberry Chip
A deep, rounded fruit flavor that tastes like actual raspberries—and not just sugar—is complemented by a satisfying chocolate crunch.
Chocolate
As rich and velvety as it is in your daydreams.
Fluff Cone
There’s no better place to consume a fluff-garnished sugar cone that in the neighborhood where Marshmallow Fluff was invented. Fill it with chocolate to make a s’more-style delight.

Fun Fact

Owner Aaron Cohen (who named the shop after his daughter) is also a children’s book author. You can buy a copy of his first title, The Salty Avocado, in the shop.