PHLReview
John’s is a classic. The Italian Market-adjacent spot has been around since 1945, and while the flavors change every so often, they always have their classic lemon, cherry, and chocolate (which are the best flavors, anyway). There’s usually a line, so be prepared to wait a bit especially on hot days.
When people imagine a water ice spot, Jimmy’s is probably what comes to mind. The South Philly spot has water ice, soft serve, pretzels, and frozen bananas that's perfect for literally anyone.
Tranzilli’s Water Ice in Germantown sells some of the best water ice in the city by both by the cup and in gallon “party buckets".
Open since 1932, South Philly's Pop's Homemade Water Ice mixes up new flavors every week. Here you can get flavors like iced tea, ginger ale, and banana split.
At Dre's Homemade Water Ice & Ice Cream, you'll find flavors like sour apple mango and a few others that are all made with real fruit. Head to West Philly for a scoop when the weather gets sunny.
