Austin’s Exciting Rise in Soft Serve Ice Cream Options
Austin, Texas, is seeing a delightful shift in its dessert scene, especially when it comes to soft serve ice cream. Traditionally known for its diverse array of desserts, the city hasn’t had much to offer in the way of creamy, swirled cones. That seems to be changing as more local spots embrace the trend, bringing a splash of soft serve excitement to residents and visitors alike.
The New Trend: Summer of Soft Serve
This past summer has been dubbed the Summer of Soft Serve by Restaurant Business Magazine, and the Austin food scene has caught on. In a city already adored for its culinary innovations, the influx of soft serve options is a welcomed addition to the community’s taste buds. With many Austinites preferring to eat ice cream in a cone rather than with a spoon, the emergence of various soft serve options is certainly a great opportunity for local ice cream lovers.
Austin’s definition of “soft serve” may vary, as some locals might include ice cream places like Amy’s Ice Cream and frozen custard places like Culver’s. However, this article will focus solely on establishments that serve soft serve ice cream directly from the machine, providing that classic experience that many seek.
Top 10 Soft Serve Spots in Austin
As the soft serve revolution continues in Austin, several new and popular spots are worth checking out:
1. **Bill’s Dips** – Set to open in November 2024, Bill’s Dips, attached to the Other Racquet Social Club, will have options for soft serve.
*Address: 2717 Manor Rd.*
2. **Abby Jane Bakeshop** – This bakery added soft serve to its menu in September 2024, featuring flavors like vanilla and passionfruit, served in a cone or even in a croissant.
*Address: 16604 Fitzhugh Rd Unit C, Dripping Springs.*
3. **Redbud Ice House** – Opened in May 2024, Redbud gives a nostalgic vibe and presents simple but delicious soft serve.
*Address: 2027 Anchor Ln.*
4. **Bambino** – Launched in March 2024, this pizza-centric restaurant features vanilla soft serve, which can be served as an affogato or with orange slush.
*Address: 979 Springdale Rd. Ste. 153.*
5. **Zoé Tong** – This unique Chinese restaurant opened in November 2023 and offers black sesame soft serve, complete with miso caramel and strawberry sauce, all made with oat milk.
*Address: 1530 Barton Springs Rd.*
6. **Allday Pizza** – Known for its tasty New York-style pizza and now soft serve, which can be topped with rainbow sprinkles and cold brew concentrate, opened in March 2023.
*Address: 3111 W. 35th St.*
7. **Zeds Real Fruit Ice Cream** – Opened in 2021, Zeds offers a unique New Zealand-style soft serve where vibrant fruits are blended in.
*Address: East Austin (exact address not specified).*
8. **OMG Squee** – This dessert shop, known for its cute vibes, added soft serve in 2019 and specializes in adventurous flavors.
*Address: 4607 Bolm Rd. Suite A.*
9. **Connor’s Creamery** – This ice cream truck, operating since 2016, serves Flavor Burst ice cream along with delicious lobster rolls.
*Address: 12709 N. Mopac Expy.*
10. **Sandy’s** – A classic since 1946, Sandy’s remains a staple for swirled chocolate-and-vanilla cones kids and adults adore.
*Address: 603 Barton Springs Rd.*
The Culinary Arts Scene
In addition to soft serve ice cream, Austin is also making waves in culinary education. The local Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts recently received high marks, ranking No. 2 in the country for Culinary Arts according to Niche’s 2025 rankings. The Austin campus offers a variety of programs, focusing on both culinary and pastry arts.
Despite facing challenges in terms of value and faculty rankings, the school has excelled in areas like diversity and student life. With a focus on practical experiences and a connection to local food sources, it adds another layer of richness to Austin’s already vibrant food culture.
The continuous rise of soft serve options and the prestige of culinary education both reflect Austin’s commitment to expanding its food scene. As more soft serve shops open and culinary schools gain recognition, Austinites can look forward to even more delicious experiences.
With so many exciting options on the rise, it’s safe to say that whether you’re in the mood for a nostalgic cone or looking to sample some unique flavor combinations, Austin has everything you need to satisfy your sweet cravings.
