Reliable classics are always worth returning to, and the vanilla chocolate chip ice cream, from the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, is a prime example. Simple and to the point, a single scoop of creamy rich vanilla, liberally dotted with chocolate chunks, runs $3.50. Gelato is great, and asian inspired ice cream is all the rage, but sometimes (as Robyn mentioned in yesterday's Hot Fudge Sundae post) you just need some good old fashioned ice cream. Flavor options here are limited; the menu is dominated by chocolate, coffee, strawberry, and butter pecan. But it's for the best—a few flavors done right is much preferable to more choices of lesser quality. But if you still can't settle upon a flavor, we spotted a couple diving into an absolutely mouthwatering banana split. Besides, the beautiful view, and an opportunity to walk over the Brooklyn Bridge before or after your visit, is bound to whet your appetite.

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory

1 Water Street, Brooklyn NY 11201; (nr. Old Fulton Street; map)
718-246-3963