A hidden gem! My friends and I came here on a whim Sunday afternoon and it wasn't very busy. This location of Novel is a walk up window, down a narrow outdoor corridor/alley(?)... there were some benches and a seating area on the sidewalk just outside this area. I think the flavors probably rotate but I decided to try the Cookie Monster single scoop. It was delicious!! I loved all the cookie chunks!! Can't wait to come back here! read more

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We were expecting really good ice cream based on the reviews but we were really underwhelmed. The area is a nice place to walk around and we got lucky and found a parking spot right in front. The store is located down a hallway and has lots of seating outside. We ordered the Dough Melt with Biscoff and the Leslie Knope with Butter Pecan. The donut was good but would have been better if it was warm. We are used to Afters who puts their donut in a press to warm it. The Biscoff ice cream was like a vanilla with cookie mixed in. I was expecting a more Biscoff forward flavor. The Leslie Knope had a 7 minute wait because they had to make the waffle. I liked that the waffle was warm but it got hard and cold quickly with the ice cream. It wasn't fluffy at all and I think by waiting I was expecting a fresh waffle, but it seemed to be more of a frozen waffle placed in a toaster. It was also more difficult the eat the waffle sandwich vs the donut sandwich. We ended up biting the waffle and using a spoon for the ice cream. The butter pecan ice cream had good flavor but was nothing special. Definitely recommend the Dough Melt over the Leslie Knope, and the Butter Pecan over the Biscoff. An additonal star because the service was friendly and she offered to answer questions as we were indecisive since it was our first time there. However, we probably won't be back as there are many ice cream options closer to us in Gilbert that have better quality ice cream that is creamier and smoother, and more variety of flavors. read more

As an ice cream fiend - I was very excited to try this place. With a list of about 10 flavors to choose from, I settled on the popular Cookie Monster this time. I'd be crazy to not order the Dough Melt - where they add the ice cream scoop into a warm glazed donut. This was so delicious and a perfect treat for my walk home. Keep in mind that the ice cream will melt pretty fast if you happen to get it in the middle of summer. There's also the option to get a cup or cone, and many toppings to choose from! It DID leave my mouth the bluest blue that it's ever been (siri play Blue Lips by CORTIS), but I have no regrets. There's one 2-seater table right next to the ordering window, and a few tables in front of the alley where this is located, so hope to get a table if you go with larger groups, or come to terms that this is a standing/walking treat. Can't wait to get more flavors! read more

Novel Ice Cream - Cookie Monster Dough Melt - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

WOW... just WOW!!! We were actually recommended this place by the amazing restaurant where we had dinner, and all I can say is thank goodness we listened. What a hidden gem! There is something magical about a warm doughnut paired with cold creamy ice cream. The combination of temperatures and flavors was incredible. It was one of those treats that makes you stop mid-conversation just to appreciate how good it is. I honestly can't believe we are only now discovering this spot. The staff were so friendly, and genuinely happy to help. My friend has a food allergy which they were patient, thorough, and took the time to answer all of her questions, which meant so much to us. Great desserts, wonderful service, and a team that truly cares about their customers. That's a combination that's hard to beat. read more

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Novel Ice Cream is one of those spots that feels like a hidden gem--tucked away near the museum, it almost feels like you've discovered something special when you find it. And once you try it, you realize why it's so popular. The ice cream tastes incredibly fresh and homemade. My personal favorite is the honey lavender--it's perfectly balanced. The lavender flavor is distinct and aromatic without being overpowering, which is rare since lavender desserts can sometimes lean too subtle or too strong. It's clearly a well-loved place because there's usually a line, but it moves quickly, so the wait is never a big deal. And it's absolutely worth it for the dough melt--seriously, it's to die for. There's just something amazing about that combination of cold, creamy ice cream sandwiched inside a warm donut. On top of all that, the staff is always very friendly, which makes the experience even better. I will always recommend this place! read more

Novel Ice Cream - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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Their Phoenix location was voted #1 in Yelp's Top 100 Ice Cream Shops, so I wanted to check out their Mesa location as closer to my house. My boyfriend and I are long distance, but when he was in town, this made for a perfect date night treat! Though the place has no interior seating and only one table, we quickly pivoted the plan to eat in my car. Definitely more of a grab and go place to plan a little differently next visit. And yes, next visit as we both loved what we ordered! My boyfriend wanted the Leslie Knope, but was advised it would take 5-10 minutes so he went with the Dough Melt. I took a bite of his, and it truly was heavenly to have ice cream between a deliciously warm glazed donut though I preferred my order. My scoop of chocolate was perfect for me as I don't like to go too overboard with the sweets! Definitely return here and recommend as the ice cream was very good. Hard for me to find chocolate ice cream that isn't just pure sugar, and tastes like chocolate. Novel hits the mark for me! read more

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Out looking for a treat after some ice skating in Mesa! A few blocks away is Novel Ice Cream. It's something special for sure. Two handfuls of flavors to choose from. I chose Mocha Peppermint...delicious. One block from downtown Mesa not far from anything if you're looking for something sweet. After we finished our ice creams someone mentioned they also have donuts filled ice cream sandwiches...ahhhh! Next time for sure. Last words... special. read more

Novel Ice Cream - Mocha Peppermint deliciousness. - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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We stopped by here to grab some ice cream because we had seen something about a ice cream doughnut sandwich. I got the crunchy caramel toffee, ice cream and chocolate. All the ice cream was delicious. We also got Tres leches in the doughnut, it was a bit too sweet for my taste. Overall, it was pretty good stuff. The service was quick and friendly and we loved sitting right outside on the patio while watching the pigeons and birds. read more

Novel Ice Cream - Outside - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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Ice cream! Donuts! Drinks! Great customer service! What's not to LOVE at Novel! Always a great time picking up a sweet treat at Novel Ice Cream in downtown Mesa. Bonus points that they are open late (midnight or 1am most nights). They serve 8 daily flavors and have 4 daily rotating flavors created in small batches so it's always fresh. You can choose cup, cone or Dough Melt which is a donut ice cream sandwich! Delicious! It's in a cute greenery covered alley with a few other shops as well. There are a few spots to sit and enjoy every wonderful bite. read more

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After speaking with the owner Shawn after he reached out to me about my 3 star review, I've updated my review to one star. His defensive attitude shows my rushed, snobby experience was a reflection of leadership rather than an isolated incident. I entertained the text just to see what I could help with. Not expecting any refunds or an invite back because it wasnt just the service that I didn't like. The ice cream was underwhelming and "not worth the calories". I had no intention of returning unless there was a fundamental change in their recipe. The ice cream is bland and tastes of eating pure butterfat. Even a doughnut sandwich could not redeem the ice cream. I stand by my statement that you would be better off at Churn, Salt and Straw, or Handel's. Very disappointing experience, flavor, and ownership. His response to this publicly is further reflection. I refused to engage because he led off defensive. That is not how to treat a customer. His assertion that I have been misleading is appalling. It's mid ice cream. I implore customers to stay away or meet the same treatment on display. Serve the community at the highest level. This isn't the highest. I will add another screenshot of him asking for a phone call. I rejected the phone call because i could tell there was defensiveness from the beginning and he proved me right read more

Novel Ice Cream - The "attempt to improve" that was really just the starting attempt to mouth off about how offended they are that I had a bad experience - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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Delicious and shockingly inexpensive! Even the location was quaint and unique! My eating companions and I enjoyed: single scoops of: chocolate, butter pecan, Cookie Monster, raspberry sorbet, and vanilla. Everyone loved their ice cream! I highly recommend the butter pecan it was nutty and so good!!! read more

Novel Ice Cream - Single scoop butter pecan - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Love love ice cream. This is literally a tiny hole in the wall shop. One tiny table outside to sit, but sitting on the street The chocolate ice cream was rich and a nice chocolate taste. It was not bitter What surprised me was the lemon bar ice cream. In the past I have found lemon ice cream to have a slightly curdled aftertaste this one did not. The lemon was light and refreshing The butter pecan was DELICIOUS. There was a good sprinkling of pecans. read more

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They have eight Staple Ice Cream flavors: Bourbon Toffee Caramel Crunch Cookie Monster Madagascar Vanilla Chocolate Straight Up Strawberry Butter Pecan Honey Lavender PB Wasted They have some rotated flavors - Rotated Ice Creams (2) Rotated Sorbets (Dairy + GF) (2) The Bourbon Toffee Caramel Crunch is their best seller. I thought it had a good toffee and caramel flavor. The flavor wasn't weak here. With that, you know they have good ice cream. The honey lavender has a strong lavender flavor. Those who like floral flavors will like this one. The Thai ice tea flavor was good too, but there was something crunchy in it like an eggshell. I wasn't sure what it was. Otherwise, it had a nice strong flavor. Atmosphere - They hand you the ice cream out of a window. You order at a window. This all takes place in an alley. The weather could be hot, cold, just right, rainy, windy or sunny. It was getting busy in the alley. There was one table in the alley. Outside of the alley there were a couple of benches. Service - There were about three employees at the time. The service here was fairly quick. Order and pay at the window. Self seating only outside if you can find a spot. Parking - Surface parking lot. No parking meter or parking structures. Would be nice if there was a nearby parking structures or if there was covered parking with solar panels or trees. Unique - No seating. Is literally in an alley. Nice hole in the wall place. In the evenings I think it would be pretty there. Did not see a health rating on Yelp. read more

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Always a good time here with people. Tried a couple samples. I wondered if the Cookie Monster is natural dye or not, cause I'm not a fan of artificial dyes. Seeing that it transfers I don't think it is. Their bourbon Carmel is always great and pb was tasty as well! read more

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A very cute and convenient ice cream parlor. I love the concept of ordering from a window, which makes the whole process of ordering and paying very efficient. They are great with encouraging samples, and I suggest taking advantage because they have so many tasty flavors! We settled on the Cookie Monster Dough Melt and a scoop of the Straight Up Strawberry, and they were both soooo full refreshing. The workers here were also very friendly, which is always a plus for me. read more

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So cute, been wanting to go here forever. Have to try the dough melt if you go. Hidden away down an alley but worth it. read more

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We'd heard great things but weren't sure what to expect. We tried the Cookie Monster, as recommended by the staff. The donut was warm, soft, and absolutely delicious, and pairing it with the ice cream was chef's kiss. We savored every bite of this sweet indulgence. Plus, there's a charming little bookshop right next door, which made the visit even better! Highly recommend. read more

Novel Ice Cream - Cookie Monster - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Novel Ice Cream delivers the kind of craftsmanship that makes dessert lovers pay attention. The ice cream is rich, ultra-creamy, and thoughtfully balanced with flavors that feel creative without trying too hard. The textures are smooth, the sweetness is dialed-in, and every scoop tastes intentional. The ambiance is fun and modern with a casual neighborhood feel, portions are generous for the price, and the shop is clean and well-kept. There's a solid variety of flavors (plus their signature creations for the adventurous), and it's a great spot for both families and serious ice-cream fans alike. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates ice cream made with care. Novel proves dessert can be playful and high-quality at the same time. read more

Kid approved, adult approved with vegan options as well. I was expecting it to be so hard to find based on reviews but it was quite simple. Flavors were very good. Order at the window and sit outside. Prices are very fair and I always appreciate a kids size scoop option. read more

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Finally got to try Novel Ice Cream! The place is super cute, i felt like i was by the Harry Potter street or something. Got to try their chocolate ice cream with chocolate sauce, and in terms of the ice cream, it was actually ok. I think places like Jenni's have more rich ice cream, but everyone has different preference! read more

Novel Ice Cream - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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My mom and I have been seeing this place on TikTok so often and after hearing all the "best ice cream in Phoenix" claims, we knew we had to check it out when we were in the area one day. We got there a little before they opened at noon and there was already a line forming. They had a decent amount of flavors (not as much as Handel's, but better than some ice cream places I've been to) and some interesting sounding sorbet flavors. It was $4.80 for a single scoop and $5.80 for two scoops so it was economically smarter to just go with two scoops for a dollar more. So that's what we did. I ordered the Cookie Monster and Peanut Butter Wasted in a cup and my mom ordered the Peanut Butter Wasted and Pecan Pie. She originally wanted the Bourbon Caramel Toffee Crunch but that flavor was OUT. Within opening they were already out of one of their best sounding flavors! Weird, but okay. The ordering system was a little wonky. You gave the employee your order and then you remain where you're standing at the register until the worker hands you your individual thing of ice cream. There was another boy in the back working with the girl taking our orders but it just seemed a little inefficient. There was a good-sized line behind us and I feel like we had already been waiting a good amount of time for the ONE GROUP OF FOUR people in front of us to get their ice cream. But then again, it's not like there was a number system or any way to keep track of orders as they were being prepared, so it's almost like you had to remain standing there until you got your order. I don't know, it just seems like if the line is long or if there's a large party of people in one transaction that it could take a hot minute to get that order served. On to the ice cream itself. It wasn't anything spectacular that all these reviews are saying. I think it's certainly comparable to the creaminess of Handel's. My mom wasn't impressed with the Pecan Pie flavor she resorted to since her first choice wasn't available. It was quite literally just bits of pecans in butter pecan ice cream. We thought there'd be chunks of pie bits in there too, but no. The Peanut Butter Wasted flavor was super peanut buttery though, which was much appreciated. This place also does the ice cream and donuts thing too, so maybe that's why they're so popular/awarded highly. Anyway, I was glad I tried it out, but I'd much rather get four scoops of Handel's ice cream for only a dollar more. read more

Novel Ice Cream - Cookie Monster and pecan pie - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Talk about perfect reward after finishing my 5 full marathon. We started celebrating at bar as Mercuria family and celebrated all of our finishes and support as teammates. One of teammates Lizzie at end of the night ask if anyone wanted to join for some ice cream. She notice Novel Ice Cream during race weekend. So few of us like hell yay!! Me at this point between, gels, salt tablets, coffee, and beer. Why not. Plus Lizzie telling me all made daily fresh! No way past it up. I love about Novel Ice Cream definitely has that hole in the wall or hidden gem vibe. It start location not much sign, off main road in downtown Mesa, and walk down hallway at the very end. It small window counter that order. Not many places to sit bench front and outside building little outdoor patio area. It reminds me ice cream truck order it and find place enjoy it. The menu board cool set up with different colors and old school vibe. Lot of different choices so tough pick one. I settled on the honey lavender. Da bomb. They also have doughnut filled ice cream. If craving fresh ice cream. Someone order sorbet and said that was da bomb. No flavor can go wrong. In Mesa should check out Novel Ice Cream. read more

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It might be a little hard to find at first, but this spot is absolutely worth it! Novel is so good! Novel is tucked in a shopping alley right near the Natural History Museum - a little hard to find your first time coming here. The ice cream here is delicious! They have a few specialty items in their Dough Melt and Leslie Knope. Each a different type of ice cream sandwich. I highly recommend the Dough Melt. Ice cream in between a warm, fresh donut. Treat yo self! Cookie Monster is a go to flavor but they have a great selection overall. Samples are allowed! And then you can add a range of toppings too. If you have a sweet tooth and are needing a new place to check out, you gotta add Novel to your list! read more

Novel Ice Cream - Dough Melt w/ Cookie Monster ice cream. - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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Hidden in an alley, this place is worth checking out. They offer 12 different flavors, multiple toppings, and your style of: donut melt, Leslie knope, float, pint and scoop. I ordered the Cookie Monster with the donut melt which I rank 10/10. Service was great, they allowed me to sample multiple flavors and my order was served quickly. There's also outside seating near the entrance of the alley. read more

Novel Ice Cream - Cookie Monster - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

$7 and some change for a cone and 1 scoop of Madagascar vanilla Madagascar vanilla ice cream was actually really good and really set itself from other ice cream shops 9/10 Its location is really cute and not far from down town Mesa. Service was good, will stop by again read more

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I have been frequenting Novel for years now. This location in Mesa is the closest to me currently. I stopped by last night with my bestie. This location is so cute! Its located in an alley, and is just a pick up window. I ordered a scoop of strawberry with sprinkles on top. My bestie got the limited time dubai chocolate flavor in a cone. It was all so good!! The strawberry was so nice and creamy! The Dubai chocolate was perfect. I hadn't tried a cone before since I usually opt for a cup or the donut sandwich option, but the cone was excellent! It had a delicious vanilla flavor. Service was top notch as always. They have a great selection of flavors as well as toppings.Come check it out next time your in downtown Mesa! read more

Novel Ice Cream - Strawberry scoop with sprinkles - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

Yum yum yum! A warm pressed doughnut with thick cold ice cream, yes please! A dough melt comes with a free topping of choice which is a nice bonus texture to your dessert. Service is fast and friendly, offering a nice quick explanation of their shop and its function to newbies. Only took away one star because the featured 4 rotating flavors were mostly fruity sorbet flavors which I didn't think would pair very well in a sugary donut, but who knows maybe I'm wrong! PB wasted definitely gave a peanut butter skrewball flavor! read more

Novel Ice Cream - Outside - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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This place is literally a hole in the wall in an alley, but don't let that fool you. The ice cream was absolutely delicious. There is seating on the outside of the alley in the street. The service was quick and the staff for friendly and accommodating. read more

Very much worth the hype and recognition. Cute little walk up window with quick service. The flavors were unique and very thought out for the best combos. We will be back! read more

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We had to check this spot out after seeing it as #1 gourmet ice cream on the Yelp newsletter. The ice cream flavors did not disappoint. I tried their seasonal watermelon which was so refreshing for the summer. The spiced plum was actually good after the first few bites. I didn't like it at first but then it started to taste exactly like pie. The Cookie Monster has pieces of Oreo and cookie dough. The strawberry had a great flavor and texture to it too. I got the dough melt that was ice cream inside a donut with fruity pebbles as the topping- I think next time I'll have to try the Leslie Knope which has ice cream between a waffle sandwich. read more

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I thought this spot was 1 of 1, but it looks like they have a handful of locations throughout the city! While it may not be new to you, this spot was new to me, and the specific location cannot be beat! While it looks like an unassuming walk up window, eating your ice cream in the aesthetic alleyway surrounded by greenery and twinkle lights is such a treat, plus the surrounding area is explorer friendly lol. I opted for a lavender variety, but they have a handful of flavor options, the texture of the ice cream is nice, and you can't beat a spot that offers their sweet cream smashed in a donut! read more

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What cute little hidden spot! Came here on a crisp night and seeing the little alleyway lit up at night is such a sweet vibe. Although this is just a tiny walk-up window, they do have a decent assortment of flavors. We sampled quite a few as it was our first time and they had some interesting flavors like Honey Lavender and Fat Elvis (peanut butter, banana, and small bits of bacon). We ended up getting the Dough Melt which is ice cream sandwiched between a donut, and it was so good! We were surprised at how good the donut was actually. Since it was a little chilly outside, pairing it with a hot donut and cold ice cream was just a perfect end to our night! read more

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Nice little ice cream spot that's cute and has great selections. I was feeling adventurous and got chocolate lol. I got it in the donut and it was such a perfect treat that I shared with my husband. Service was super friendly and fast. We came on a Saturday evening and there was a short line when we arrived. There are a few spots to sit and enjoy your ice cream as well. read more

Novel Ice Cream - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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If you're anywhere near downtown Mesa and craving something sweet, run--don't walk--to Novel Ice Cream. Tucked away in a charming alley way, this place is such a hidden gem. You order right at the window, which just adds to the cozy, laid-back vibe. We came by after dinner in the evening and it was perfect--cool night air, string lights above, and delicious ice cream. The staff was super friendly and let me sample both PB Wasted and Butter Pecan (which was also amazing), but PB Wasted stole my heart--absolutely heavenly! Rich peanut butter flavor with just the right amount of sweetness and texture. We also tried the Bourbon Caramel Toffee Crunch, which was every bit as indulgent and delicious as it sounds. Great flavors, great atmosphere, and a great way to end the evening. Highly recommend! read more

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A MUST try! Absolutely delicious! 100% 5/5 Read an article about this place ranked among the topplaces in the U.S. and knew I had to try it. They have a variety of flavors and toppings (even a vegan option!) You can get a waffle cone or a warm donut sandwich!!! They even had a platter option to try 5 different flavors + 1 topping. The shop is clean and close to downtown mesa. The prices were absolputely reasonable as well. The employee was super nice, patient, and friendly. I refuse to eat ice cream anywhere else as long I live in the Phoenix area! read more

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Great ice cream in a nice location! They have something called the "indecision" which is kind of like a flight were you can chose 5 different ice cream flavors and one topping. Its a great deal if you want to try some different flavors since they have several unique ones. My favorite was the honey lavender. It's a little tricky to find because it's at the end of the ally but it's very cute and there is plenty of seating out front. There was a line to order but it went very fast. The person taking our order was nice and explained the menu to us. There are a few parking spots on the street and more in a lot across the street. read more

Novel Ice Cream - The Indecision - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

I had no idea this ice cream shop existed but so glad I found it. It's in an alley and you order at a window. There is outside seating in the front of the alley. I believe they have staple flavors and rotating flavors. I ordered the honey lavender in a cup. I was so good. They also have a donut ice cream sandwich and a waffle ice cream sandwich. If you haven't tried this place you should. I can't wait to go back. read more

Novel Ice Cream - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

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This place is absolutely top-notch--my go-to recommendation whenever friends or coworkers ask about dessert spots. Their signature treat? Rich, creamy ice cream served inside a warm, glazed donut. It's the perfect hot-and-cold combo, and honestly... what could possibly beat that? read more

Novel Ice Cream - Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt Near Me - Mesa, Arizona

After having Novel Ice Cream bookmarked on Yelp for almost two years, I finally made it to the ice cream shop May! We walked up to the window and were greeted right away. The friendly staff answered all of our questions and let us sample a few flavors. Novel Ice Cream offers 12 hand-crafted flavors, from classics to unique surprises including four weekly rotating options. I had my heart set on a dough melt. Donut + ice cream? Can't get any better than that. I ordered the Caramel Bourbon Crunch on dough melt and my husband ordered the Honey Lavender and Berries & Cream in a cone. It was love at first bite for me! The Caramel Bourbon Crunch was creamy and delicious. I thought it went perfectly well with the donut. I sampled my husband's Honey Lavender and Berries & Cream ice cream and both were excellent. The honey lavender had a strong lavender flavor, so highly recommend for lavender fans. Can't wait to return and try other flavors! read more

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Excellent scoop of peanut butter ice cream. Really creamy, but still firm. The Cookie Monster scoop tasted pretty much like vanilla, which was still good, but not what we were expecting. Be warned that the blue dye is intense. read more