b"A Tour of New and ClassicIce Cream ShopsGetting treats with my kidsBY AMY LYNN-CRAMERAiden and Addison Cramer tasted ice cream at six local shops.I n the delicious stretch of Maplewood anding for 10 indoors and additional tables and chairs South Orange, youll find no shortage of iceoutside, its a place where you can truly linger. cream shops serving up frozen treats. FromIt wont just be like you have to eat your ice classic cones (with or without sprinkles) tocream and run, says Hafif. We have some seating small-batch creations, these neighborhoodoutside, little benches and tables. So if its a nice favorites are where community comes to- sunny day, you can stay and enjoy the moment. gether and memories are made. The new location is also primed to become a fa-With my kids in tow, we set out on a deliciousvorite party spot, thanks to its dedicated sundae two-day ice cream tour for this article. Right frombar,offeringguestsanunforgettable,hands-on the start, one thing was crystal clear: the ownerssweet treat experience.deep sense of community and the genuine prideCold Stone Creamerythey take in their customers overall experience. Theres something truly special about the experi- OurnextstopwasColdStoneCreamery, ence, when the faces are familiar, the flavors arenestled in the heart of South Orange at 3 Sloan abundant and every lick provides a moment ofStreet.Best pure, simple joy. Addison and Aiden sampled SOMA Sweets' ice creamknownforthe just before the shop was scheduled to move to 58 SOMA Sweets Vose Avenue. ColdStone experience,this New to the scene is SOMA Sweets, the whimsi- seasonal,includingveganandsorbetvarieties,spotletsyou cal candy boutique that made its debut at The Co- theres something to satisfy every sweet tooth.getcreativeby Lab in South Orange last June. Moving into 58Owned by Monica Hafif, SOMA Sweets con- dreamingup Vose Avenue as this issue goes to press, the shoptinuestosurpriseanddelight.Thenewspaceany combo your now includes ice cream. Theyre scooping from 20not only boasts an expansive candy selection butheartdesiresas tubs of deliciousness, featuring creamy favoritesalso features dedicated ice cream and party rooms,itsmixedon from Ashbys Sterling and Giffords HomeMainemaking it a go-to destination for sweet celebrationsasignaturefro- Cold Stone Creamery is known for mixing ice cream and other Ice Cream. With options ranging from classic toand everyday indulgences, says Hafif. With seat- zen granite slab.ingredients on a granite slab.10/ matters magazine / summer 2025"