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The summer sun is sizzling hot, so what better way to cool off than with a frosty treat. Spring residents have a wide variety of choices when it comes to frozen desserts. From traditional shaved ice to Mexican-style refresquerías, the Houston Press found the top five places to chill out and take a break from the heat.
EXPAND5. Bahama Bucks, 3403 Louetta, Suite A
This popular chain offers a tropical escape from the heat with more than 90 flavors to top its trademark Sno. Soft, fluffy ribbons of ice are shaved to order and piled high in your choice of sizes. Syrups come in sweet, sour and even sugar-free. Add a scoop of ice cream and a drizzle of sweet cream on top for an even more indulgent treat.
EXPAND4. Buzzles Shaved Ice, 2616 FM 2920, Suite A
Buzzles has been a local favorite for soft Hawaiian-style shaved ice for years. Its recently opened storefront offers more than 120 combinations, including Texas specials, character flavors, sugar-free and premium flavors. Be sure to try the Texas Tea, Harry Potter (Butterbeer) or the signature Buzzle flavor (ultra-creamy vanilla custard). Sweet Cream, a scoop of ice cream and even a whole pickle can be added to any size cup for an extra twist.
3. Cup & Cone Nieve Bar, 23206 Aldine Westfield, #C
Nieve means snow in Spanish, but this cozy snack bar has so much more than snow cones. Cup & Cone has mangonadas, aguas frescas, malts and juices. Not to be missed are the homemade paletas in more than 30 different flavors, including strawberries and cream, mango, coconut, pistachio and so much more. If you’re feeling a little snacky, you can try the corn in a cup or a Mexican hot dog.
2. El Kiosko #13, 100 Cypresswood, Suite E
There's nothing unlucky about El Kiosko #13. Its newest location is brightly decorated with indoor and outdoor seating. El Kiosko is famous for its raspas, which are made of 100 percent fresh fruit, similar to a sorbet, and are available in more than 15 flavors. You can also cool off with fruit smoothies, fresh fruit juices and aguas frescas. In the mood for a mangonada? Go all out and get it served in a fresh pineapple topped with gummy circles, pineapple slices and a tamarind straw. Tortas, tostadas and hot Cheetos covered with cheese are also available for snacking.
EXPAND1. Texan Ice, 22314 Interstate, 45 North
Located inside Bernie’s Backyard, Texan Ice serves soft, fluffy Korean-style shaved ice with a Texas twist. Sisters Natalia and Irene Richer fell in love with this type of shaved ice during their travels in Korea and decided to bring it back to Spring. The ice is made using local milk from pasture-raised cows. The delicate flakes melt instantly in your mouth just like real snow. The menu includes seasonal fruit and organic syrups made in-house. Mango Cheesecake and The King Bingo (roasted soy, mocha and almonds) are highly recommended.
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