Classic Buffalo Spotlight: Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream
Anyone who lives in WNY and loves ice cream knows that summertime here is the best. Why? Because Nick Charlap’s Ice Cream is open for business. There are four Nick Charlap’s locations dispersed throughout the Buffalo-Niagara area, which makes getting your hands on a cone that much easier.
From Boston/Hamburg (the original location) to the village of Hamburg, Angola, and West Seneca, Nick Charlap’s awaits with dairy treats in abundance, including custards, ice cream, milkshakes and sundaes (there’s also milk and cheese in the dairy case in case you need to grab any). The family-owned dairy operation has been making its own ice cream for over 50 years.
I usually visit the Boston/Hamburg location because it was the one my dad used to bring my sister and I to growing up and each trip includes that element of nostalgia. I recently visited with him so we could satisfy our sweet-tooths before a movie.
Walking into Nick Charlap’s for the first time, you’ll immediately notice the 1950s decor. The checkered floor, vintage signs, neon lights and a James Dean cutout standing in the corner all add to the feeling that a unique experience awaits.
On that warm Tuesday afternoon I opted for a Peanut Butter Hot Fudge Sundae. The fudge may have melted the ice cream faster than I had hoped for, but that only motivated me to eat the savory and sweet dessert topped with whipped cream and nuts that much faster. Note: Helpings are fairly generous. The sundae pictured is a small. My dad went for a flavor burst cone, getting a baby size that was “just the right amount”. We enjoyed our desserts on the picnic tables set up out front surrounded by large, vibrant potted plants. Although we didn’t necessarily want to leave, once our treats were gone and the showtime was approaching, it was time to go. Don’t worry, we’ve already planned out our choices for next time.
Visit nickcharlapsicecreaminc.com for hours and seasonality. Stop in to see which sundae flavors they’re currently featuring.
Tip for first-timers: Go with your stomach and leave your self-restraint at home.
