Despite summer looking a little different this year, it’s still as hot as ever. But nothing alleviates the summer heat like a cool treat with a good friend. If you’re looking for something fun to do or just a way to beat the heat, try one of these ten Salt Lake eateries to help you cool off. From every type of ice cream to decadent desserts, Salt Lake City has dozens of places to stop for a sweet bite to eat. Here are 10 local stops you need to try for a cool treat.

1. Normal Ice Cream

Ice cream connoisseurs, rejoice! There’s nothing like ice cream to cool you off on a hot day, or to complete a nighttime jaunt out on the town. Customers won’t find any extra bells or whistles at Normal Ice Cream—just the simplicity of delicious and creamy ice cream. You can order at the truck inside the east entrance of Trolley Square, or from the storefront located at 169 E 900 S for curbside pickup only. Both locations are open from 12 pm - 10 pm daily to meet the needs of local ice cream enthusiasts. Make sure you try their vegan blood orange sorbet!

2. Ginger Street

This fast-paced eatery has the tagline, “Real Food for the People.” Ginger Street's varied and fascinating menu is meant for sharing, which means it’s delicious and you’ll definitely want to try it all. If you’ve tried the G bars, you know that Ginger Street’s dessert game is on point. For late-night snackers, stop by their walk-up window on South State Street, open late. Enjoy sweet and refreshing confections like gourmet soft serve or a Vietnamese Coffee Float made with La Barba Cold Brew.

3. Sweet Rolled Tacos

Those looking for a little novelty in the dessert scene can try something new at Sweet Rolled Tacos at 157 S Rio Grande Street at The Gateway. Think about the wonders of a waffle cone wrapped in the shape of a taco, while swirled and spiraled ice cream sits in the middle with toppings of your choice on top. It’s truly a whole new ice cream delivery system sure to please your palate and your tummy.

4. Monkey Wrench

For the vegan and dairy-free folks, trying every flavor Monkey Wrench has to offer is a must. You can choose from 16 dairy-free ice cream flavors made in-house daily, served in a cup or cone. They also offer plenty of beverage options and vegan pastries so there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

5. Zeppe’s Italian Ice and Frozen Custard

Zeppe's has quick gelato (also known as frozen custard) and Italian ice down to a science, boasting three locations in the Beehive State alone. You can get dairy-free Italian ice, frozen custard, or a blend of the two at any Zeppe's location. Find them at City Creek, or at their West Jordan location.

6. Capo Gelateria Italiana

While it's not possible right now to take a flight over to Italy for genuine gelato, you can get a taste of the Italian treat at Capo Gelateria Italiana. In a small, authentic-feeling shop, you can choose from several mouthwatering flavors, although you probably won't have an easy time choosing just one or two! Visit the cute dessert stop at 260 S 200 W.

7. Doki Doki

Broaden your dessert horizons at this Japanese dessert shop that serves rolled ice creams, sweet Japanese crepes, and a variety of cool drinks. The name Doki Doki comes from Japanese sound symbolism meaning a beating heart, and their philosophy is that everything starts with a heartbeat. Lighten your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings with a tasty treat at the Salt Lake shop.

8. Nielsen’s Frozen Custard

Locals know the magical treat that is Nielsen's Frozen Custard. The eatery not only has custard, sundaes and concretes, but you can also grab a burger and fries if you're in the mood. There are locations in Bountiful, Holladay, South Jordan and St. George. The Holladay location only offers drive-thru service currently, but rest assured the line moves quickly. You can also park after getting your custard and enjoy the evening at the picnic tables outside.

9. Kubo Express

Kubo Express is your one stop shop for a quick, yet tasty smoothie. They’re light and refreshing, and just the thing for a boiling summer afternoon. Stay on top of your healthy eating goals with their Power Green Smoothie or get a little crazy with one of their PB Choco Ban smoothies. Plan accordingly, as Kubo Express is only open Wednesday thru Saturday and closes at 7 PM.

10. Gourmandise Bakery

On 250 S 300 E in Salt Lake City, Gourmandise Bakery is a light in the Salt Lake eatery lineup. With delicate string lights and greenery surrounding the porch, you won't find this kind of ambiance just anywhere. Of course, you can order real meals here, but the desserts are where Gourmandise really shines. Their extensive dessert case at the heart of the restaurant is enough to send your head spinning with options. You'll have a difficult time just choosing one or two treats! You can visit Gourmandise downtown or at their Draper location.

These are just a few of the locally-owned treat shops in Salt Lake City. Visit the Salt Lake Chamber website to find more locally-owned businesses.

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