Ice-stravaganza: Brooklyn

Blue Pig
Kids love the wide range of flavor options available here, and the fact that they taste very reminiscent of the popular chain ice cream places. We’re iffy about the ubiquity of the color blue (especially that found in the ice cream). Plus,the staff isn’t very helpful in offering flavor suggestions. Standout flavor If your kids are willing to try something that looks different (yes, blue) but tastes like standard vanilla with candy topping, try the Blue Pig with M&Ms. 60 Henry St between Cranberry and Orange Sts, Brooklyn Heights (718-596-6301). Subway: A, C to High St. Regular cone: $2.50.

Il Laboratorio del Gelato Dark Chocolate

Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory
Kids love exactly what adults do about this classic joint: the staggering setting with views of the Manhattan skyline; the fresher-than-the-Greenmarket ingredients that go into the short but stellar list of flavors. We’re iffy about perching on the benches just outside the landmark location: They’re usually coated with sticky, congealed treats. Standout flavor Really, it’s hard to choose just one, but if we must, let’s say Peach. It’ll immediately transport you to the middle of an orchard. 1 Water St at Old Fulton St, Dumbo (718-246-3963). Regular cone: $3.50.

Dolly’s
Kids love playing pastry chef here because they can customize crazy concoctions of ice cream and plain ices. For example, ask for a pairing of Raspberry Cheesecake with Cotton Candy. We’re iffy about the location. It’s difficult to get to if you don’t have your own set of wheels. Standout flavor Don’t miss the Apple Crumb ice—just like what Mom used to make, except frozen and in a cup. Ave U at 58th St, across from Kings Plaza Shopping Center, Mill Basin (no phone). Travel: 2, 5 to Flatbush Ave–Brooklyn College, then take the B41 bus to the mall. Regular cone: $2.

Hinsch’s
Kids love the waffles, the mondo size of the scoops, and the spinning stools. This is an old-fashioned soda fountain, and like several others of its ilk, it’s more about the destination than the noshes. Standout flavor The Vanilla Fudge is cool and refreshing, though again, you’re really here for the retro vibe. 8518 Fifth Ave between 85th and 86th Sts, Bay Ridge (718-748-2854). Subway: R to 86th St. Regular cone: $2.75.

Trois Pommes Patisserie
Kids love the amazing homemade scoops—including Chocolate Peanut Butter and Vanilla—served up by friendly waitstaff in a converted antiques shop. We’re iffy about the innovative, but ultimately unpleasant Lavender Honey—it tasted a bit like eating a potpourri sachet. Standout flavor Hands down, the Strawberry-Rhubarb just might be the best sorbet ever: as dense and rich as ice cream, and as bracing as a fresh pint of berries. 260 Fifth Ave at Carroll St, Park Slope (718-230-3119, troispommespatisserie.com). Subway: M, R to Union St. Regular cup: $3.

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