BROOKLYN — Smith and Court streets are best known for their dining and bar scenes — but the neighborhood sweet spots form a league of their own.
Ice cream lovers will be no stranger to parlors like Brooklyn Farmacy in Carroll Gardens or Momofuku Milk Bar near the F/G Carroll Street stop.
That's not all though. For your summertime enjoyment, here are a host of cool options for you to try:
► Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream, 81 Bergen St. near Smith Street
Does the thought of vegan ice cream make you nervous? Head to Van Leeuwen to dispel those fears. The artisanal ice creamery makes its vegan scoops with cashews, coconut and cocoa butter, according to its website. If vegan isn't your scene, Van Leeuwen of course has its classic ice cream menu for purists.
► Court Pastry Shop, 298 Court St.
It's been called a "neighborhood institution" since opening in 1948. Known for its Italian pastries such as Sfingi and Zeppole, Court Pastry also serves scoops of Italian ice during the warmer months.
► Brooklyn Farmacy, 513 Henry St.
Built into a former 1920s apothecary store, Brooklyn Farmacy is the place to go for decadent sundaes, thick milkshakes, floats and egg creams. There are tables to kick back and enjoy your ice cream, but keep in mind that the parlor draws an after-school crowd on weekdays.
► MilkMade, 204 Sackett St.
The artisanal ice cream company opened its first brick-and-mortar space in Carroll Gardens last year. The parlor serves as its production space as well as a tasting room for MilkMade's unique flavors.
► Milk Bar, 360 Smith St.
A sister bakery of David Chang's Momofuku empire, Milk Bar is known for its cereal-milk inspired ice creams, shakes and cakes.
► The Chocolate Room, 269 Court St.
Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate.
