Ice Land

Rolled ice cream started as made-to-order dessert a few years ago among street vendors in Southeast Asia. Now this popular dessert has spread to Philadelphia. Yan Cai, Ryan Yang, and Jing Yang came from New York to open Ice Land.

The shop is decked out in bright white and light blue decor. Customers enter and can order from the menu on the left and watch as their unique creation is made. The signature Thai rolled ice cream is made by pouring cream, flavorings, and toppings – no preservatives – on a super-cold pan; a worker then scrapes and blends the ingredients. The result is creamy; supposedly it’s lower in fat than run-of-the-mill ice cream, but then you’re encouraged to pile on sweet toppings.

We tried some delicious combinations from the signature suggestions. First the Nanatella made with fresh banana chopped up right into the cream. They even made a smile with the nutella before rolling up the ice cream. After adding some whipped cream we chose Pocky sticks, fruity pebbles, and fresh mango and strawberries to top it all off.

And then we tried the Strawberry Shortcake with fresh chopped strawberries, condensed milk, and graham crackers. We couldn’t peel our eyes away from the awesome way this ice cream is prepared, you’ll have to go for yourself- its dessert and a show!

Sip on a refreshing Strawberry Sparkling drink or look at the secret menu item, Taiyaki. This fish-shaped waffle cone is filled with ice cream- we tried the Purple dragon fruit ice cream which is tasty as beautiful in color!

Ice Land also serves Snow Ice, made from 90% milk and 10% water with flavorings such as roasted black sesame, coconut, taro, or matcha green tea. The Snow ice is made earlier and frozen into blocks. The blocks go into a shaver. Snow ice gets all toppings and syrups.

Whatever sweet treat you’re looking for, Ice Land is sure to satisfy! Stop by Sunday- Thursay from 12pm – 11 am or 12 pm- midnight to see for yourself.