13 Best Ice Cream Shops near Holden

“Love Meola’s but they need to allow for people to put toppings on ice cream. Come on. Ridiculous that you can’t add a topping on simple ice cream.“

“I give Goodhiles a Five star rating for many reasons. The store is small in size but offers variety of items for customers. Hot and cold breakfast, lunch and dinner menus ranging from breakfast sandwiches to subs, pizza and ect. A massive variety of ice cream flavors. Alcoholic beverages from ice cold beer - wine and a premium Rum such as Captains.
In addition, candy, chips, Tabasco, gum, energy drinks, fruit drinks and ect. There is also two areas to sit and eat and a picnic table outside as well. Great place to stop when traveling. Also the Owner Tony, his son and all staff are extremely friendly and always courteous.“

“Besides outstanding ice cream, it was open on a Sunday for family outing in early March - we just HAD TO HAVE some awesome ice cream! So worth the journey.“

“Ice cream and gelato differ fundamentally in their formulation, processing, and physical properties, all of which stem from nuanced variations in food chemistry. Both are frozen emulsions of fat, water, and air stabilized by proteins and sugars, but the ratios and techniques used to create them yield distinct textures and flavor profiles.

Ice cream typically contains a higher fat content—often between 10–16%—due to the use of heavy cream. This elevated fat level contributes to a richer mouthfeel and acts as a barrier to flavor release, which is why ice cream often requires more intense flavoring. Additionally, ice cream is churned at higher speeds, incorporating more air (known as overrun), which can reach up to 100%. This results in a lighter, fluffier texture but dilutes flavor intensity.

Gelato, by contrast, uses more milk than cream, resulting in a fat content closer to 4–8%. This lower fat matrix allows for more immediate flavor perception. Gelato is churned more slowly, incorporating less air—typically 20–30% overrun—which gives it a denser, silkier texture. It’s also served at slightly warmer temperatures than ice cream, reducing firmness and enhancing flavor volatility.

From a colloidal chemistry perspective, the differences in fat globule dispersion, air cell size, and freezing point depression all contribute to the sensory divergence between these two frozen desserts.“

“We just tried them for the first time in September. We went 3 times in one month. Super upset that we didn't discover them until the end of their season. We will be waiting for next year! Delicious gelato and frozen yogurt!“

“Fried scallops and onion rings are to die for. I can’t believe this place gets bad reviews. I live in Sterling and have eaten here for years. I’ve had fried saclllops in a lot of places throughout New England and these are the best!! Food comes out super fast too!“

“The best frozen yogurt and the staff is always super nice and friendly!“

“MOTW has the best chai in the city. I love the soft, creamy, silky texture of their Yemeni chai. I love the way they decorated the 38th st location, very inclusive and powerful pictures. Great spot to get some work or reading done. Also love their prayer or meditation area. It’s such a wonderful coffee shop. Usually Raadia is there when we go and she’s such a kind and friendly soul, always so helpful and customer focused.“

“Great experience and service“

“I went to the restaurant today! I haven’t been for a very long time. And have not had the pleasure to try after the new owners. Omg!!! I have NEVER had fresher fish in my life!! I got the 2 Way Combo with fried clams and haddock. It was Outstanding!! Usually with fried food at other places I take two bites and I’m done….Nope not today!! The Food, the Service and the atmosphere was PERFECT!! I mean when the owner says can I get you an extra tartar sauce for the table and he brings the whole bottle?? Now that is Class and an Owner that wants his Patrons to come back!!! The waitresses and waiters were TOP NOTCH! I can’t wait to go back!! Fantastic!! Cannot recommend highly enough!!“

“Awesome service! Good food and great customer satisfaction! Definitely a place to take my money!“

“clean classy fresh and natural cozy vibes and great prices“

“Had a Great birthday breakfast there with my family love the breakfast 🍳 good eats“