Carvel Ice Cream

There are 15 Carvel locations in Brooklyn, but the one on Coney Island Avenue is an experience unto itself. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be struck by the old-timey facade and colorful Fudgie the Whale mural that add to the feeling that this is a local soft-serve shack rather than a franchise. They usually have at least six flavors to choose from at any given time, but pistachio is always on tap, usually available as a twist with cold brew, which is arguably the most compelling reason to make the trip out to this particular location. They’ll also dip and top your cone exactly how you like it, every time. The line can be long here, especially in the summer, but even hanging in the parking lot waiting to hear your number called is part of the charm.