Quincy's Ice Cream Legacy
Quincy holds a special place in American ice cream history. In the 1920s, Howard Deering Johnson began selling ice cream from a small drugstore in the Wollaston neighborhood, eventually becoming famous for his twenty-eight flavors. That humble start grew into the Howard Johnson's restaurant chain and helped define roadside dining across the country. Today, Quincy residents continue that love affair with frozen desserts, lining up at shops near Wollaston Beach on summer evenings and stocking freezers with favorite pints all year long.
New England consumes more ice cream per capita than almost any other region, even during frigid winters. This guide ranks the ten best ice cream brands enjoyed in Quincy, considering flavor, quality of ingredients, local roots, and availability.
How We Chose These Brands
We looked at taste and texture, ingredient quality, flavor creativity, availability in Quincy stores and scoop shops, and brand reputation within New England. Regional brands with dairy farm roots were given particular attention because they represent the best of local craftsmanship.
The Top 10 Ice Cream Brands in Quincy
1. Richardson's Ice Cream
Richardson's has been making ice cream on its family dairy farm in Middleton, Massachusetts for generations. Its rich, creamy texture and classic flavors like Black Raspberry, Coffee, and Peanut Butter Fudge have won countless awards. Many Quincy markets and scoop shops carry Richardson's, making it a top choice for authentic New England flavor.
2. Kimball Farm
Kimball Farm is legendary for its enormous portions and wide range of flavors. A trip to one of its farm locations is a summer tradition for many South Shore families, and its pints appear in local grocers. Flavors such as Kahlua Crunch and Maple Walnut showcase the brand's indulgent style.
3. Brigham's Ice Cream
Brigham's is a nostalgic Boston brand that once operated beloved ice cream parlors across Greater Boston. Today its pints remain widely available, and longtime Quincy residents still reach for flavors like Just Jimmies and Oreo Cookie. It represents a delicious connection to the region's soda fountain past.
4. Baskin-Robbins
Baskin-Robbins, now part of the same family of brands as Quincy-born Dunkin', is famous for its 31 flavors concept and creative ice cream cakes. Its Quincy locations are popular for birthday cakes and rotating monthly flavors. The brand's variety makes it easy to please every member of the family.
5. Ben & Jerry's
Founded in neighboring Vermont, Ben & Jerry's is known for chunky, inventive flavors and a strong social mission. Pints like Cherry Garcia, Half Baked, and Phish Food are freezer staples in Quincy homes. Its commitment to fair trade ingredients and community causes resonates with socially conscious consumers.
6. J.P. Licks
J.P. Licks started in Boston's Jamaica Plain and has grown into a regional favorite with its cow-spotted shops and housemade flavors. Seasonal creations, vegan options, and frozen yogurt draw a loyal following. Quincy residents often visit its nearby locations for a creative scoop and a cup of coffee.
7. Friendly's
Friendly's began in Springfield, Massachusetts and became famous for sundaes, Fribble shakes, and ice cream cakes. Its supermarket products are widely available throughout Quincy, and flavors like Forbidden Chocolate and Cookies and Cream evoke family dinners and childhood memories for many New Englanders.
8. Häagen-Dazs
Häagen-Dazs is known for its dense, ultra-premium ice cream made with a short list of simple ingredients. Its Vanilla Bean, Dulce de Leche, and Green Tea flavors are especially popular in Quincy, where green tea and mango offerings appeal to the city's large Asian American community.
9. Emack & Bolio's
Emack & Bolio's, a Boston original, is known for wildly creative flavors and its signature cones coated in marshmallow cereal and candy. Its rock and roll personality and dedication to quality make it a fun treat for families and teens looking for something different.
10. Hood
Hood is one of New England's oldest dairy brands, and its ice cream is a dependable, affordable staple in Quincy supermarkets. Its creamy classics are perfect for backyard barbecues and family gatherings, offering familiar flavor at an approachable price and a reassuring sense of regional tradition.
Ice Cream Trends in Quincy
Ice cream preferences in Quincy are evolving. Asian-inspired flavors such as matcha, black sesame, taro, and ube are increasingly popular, reflecting the city's cultural diversity. Dairy-free options made with oat milk and coconut cream have moved from niche to mainstream. Many shops now offer rolled ice cream, mochi ice cream, and soft-serve with creative toppings. Meanwhile, local farm brands continue to grow as consumers seek fresh, high-quality dairy with a clear origin story.
Best Places to Enjoy Ice Cream in Quincy
There is no better summer ritual than grabbing a cone and walking along Wollaston Beach as the sun sets over the Boston skyline. Marina Bay offers waterfront seating and harbor views, while Quincy Center's revitalized streets are filling with new dessert cafés. For winter, a pint of Richardson's or Brigham's by the fire is a quintessential New England comfort.
Final Thoughts
From the historic legacy of Howard Johnson's to farm-fresh favorites like Richardson's and Kimball Farm, Quincy's ice cream culture is rich and deeply rooted. Whether you prefer classic vanilla or adventurous flavors, these ten brands deliver delicious experiences in every season.