Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Purity Ice Cream

    4.0 (441 reviews)
    Closed 7:30 am - 10:00 pm

    Order Purity Ice Cream Takeout or Delivery

    Purity Ice Cream Photos

    Business Info

    PURITY ICE CREAM ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Casual
    Touristy
    Moderate noise
    Dogs allowed

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Purity Ice Cream

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Banana Split, affogato, mint chocolate chip, pumpkin cheesecake crumble
    Matthew W.

    Fairly spacious ice cream parlor that also sells burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast food. The sweet treats available include shakes, malts, sundaes, pastries, and of course, ice cream. Prices are quite good (1 large scoop is about $5). Staff is friendly and offers a reasonable number of samples. The restaurant is large enough to house about 50+ people in terms of seating. I love the variance in flavors and options, as well as seasonal selections. You'll always find something you'll enjoy (unless you're lactose intolerant). I especially enjoyed the pumpkin cheesecake crumble. I'd recommend Purity for sure!

    Chocolate cupcake
    DeAnna T.

    Stopped in for something sweet and purchased a cupcake. The frosting was tasty, but the cupcake was dry. I was the only person in line, but could see they were addressing another customer so I waited patiently. They never made eye contact nor did they make me aware they'd be with me shortly. They were pleasant enough when it was my turn, but I didn't feel they valued my patronage.

    Manish C.

    Serving customers since 1936, Purity Ice Cream is one of 2 go-to local ice cream shops you need to try out when in Ithaca. The entire place gives off amazing retro ice cream parlor vibes which I rarely see nowadays. You appreciate the retro look a bit more after one too many visits to spartan-looking and soulless micro-batch creameries that seem to be popping up. They also have a food menu and dining area which is also from a bygone era (unless you happen to find a Friendly's still around), but can't judge the food since I wanted to try out the ice cream. I went with one scoop each of the coconut and cookies and cream from their list of over 20 ice cream flavors. While both were delicious and hit the spot, the clear winner of the two for me was the coconut ice cream, as the cookies and cream didn't pack too much of a punch to make a lasting impression on me. Overall, I'd rate the ice cream a solid 4 out of 5, but Purity ice cream gets a rare bump up to 5 stars from me for the cool retro cream parlor vibes and friendly service. We need more unique ice cream places like this one!

    Scoop of Sleepers Awake in waffle cone.
    Ruth C.

    Decently sized parking lot and street parking nearby as well. Spacious interior if you don't want to sit on the road-side patio. The available flavors are on the board, but the flavor explanations are on the laminated menus that have every flavor listed, including out of season ones. Service was brusque even though there was nobody in line behind us. I think I had higher expectations based on an acquaintance's recommendation, but it feels like they're just the only local ice cream vendor that does enough volume to distribute to restaurants. Flavors were ok but I don't think we'll be back.

    White Bean Lentil Burger:  Whole Wheat Roll, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Chipotle aiolin, *Fried Onions, Jalapeno, No Extras
    J B.

    We went there for dinner with family we were visiting. We keep to a Vegan diet and our daughter Vegetarian, while her husband is omniviore. All of were able to get dinner and ice cream treats afterwards. Our Vegan diet is about personal health so we are more flexible than some others might be about the fact that the Vegan burgers and veggies are cooked on the same grill as meat. For the same reasons we did not check to see if the ice cream cones were Vegan. Anyone who is concerned about such details should check and might end up eating elsewhere depending on what they find out. Alternatively, if one orders ice cream in a cup that should be acceptable for most people who keep to a Vegan diet. Our food order tonight: White Bean Lentil Burger: Whole Wheat Roll, Lettuce, Tomatoes, Chipotle aiolin, *Fried Onions, Jalapeno, No Extras Add Side Field Green Salad, honey mustard, No Drink Crispy Chicken Cobb Salad; Fried chicken breast, hard boiled egg, field greens, roma tomato, cucumber, avocado, carrots, choice of dressing Balsamic Vinegrette Dressing White Bean Lentil Burger: Whole Wheat Roll, *Grilled Bell Peppers, *Grilled Mushrooms, *Grilled Onions, No Extras Add Side Field Green Salad, Basalmic, No Drink Black Bean Burger: scratch made vegan black bean burger has a touch of BBQ flavor. Whole Wheat Roll, *Grilled Bell Peppers, *Grilled Mushrooms, *Grilled Onions, Jalapeno, Tomatoes, Lettuce, Add Avocado, Add on Sweet Potato Fries, No Drink Our deserts: Junior Scoop Vegan, Cup, Vegan Chocolate Chunk gf, Junior Scoop Vegan, Cup, Vegan Vanilla Bean gf Junior Scoop, Cup, Black Raspberry Junior Scoop, Cup, Bittersweet, 1 Scoop Vegan, Sugar cone, Vegan Chocolate Chunk gf 2 Scoop, Vegan, Waffle Cone, Vegan Mint Choc Chunk gf, Vegan Wild Berry The vegan burgers are an alternative for those who don't want commercial Vegan burgers. We liked the black bean burger better in terms of texture but both were mushy, and didn't have much flavor. We probably would not get either again. The sweet potato fries were good, not great. The side salads were surprisingly generous. Everyone liked the ice cream. The Vegan ice cream all were very good. It is possible to get Vegan shakes and vegan sundaes,which we did not try tonight.

    Katie P.

    A fun ice cream shop with a wide variety of flavors (including vegan options)! I haven't had ice cream from a shop since the summer, but have been eager to try Purity Ice Cream. Ordering online was fast and simple, as was pickup. There was a dining area available, but I was just in and out. Be aware of potential parking challenges during busier times of the day. I ordered a pint of ice cream for the freezer, and for the road I ordered one scoop of the chocolate raspberry flavor. Wow! So delicious. Perfect balance of chocolate to raspberry. You might look at the price of a scoop and be hesitant, but the portion was very generous. I thoroughly enjoyed the ice cream, and I am looking forward to enjoying the pint in the freezer!

    The brownie sundae
    Kim L.

    We stopped because we had wanted ice cream and were seriously looking for something that wasn't a chain, and wasn't the "usual suspects" for good ice cream. I went for a unique one - it was a mint chocolate ice cream w/crushed Oreos - kind of made it taste like a Thin Mint. My only complaint was that the paper stuck to the cone so I had to forego the last bite! My companion opted for traditional - it was a brownie sundae - and it was really yummy - and so much that she couldn't eat it all! Our server was quick and knowledgeable and we so enjoyed sitting outside in the sun!

    Main entrance from parking lot

    Great ice cream from packed pints to frozen yogurts. Cones or scoops, banana splits etc. Reasonable prices and polite prompt service.

    3 scoops

    A good place to get your icecream! Looks like a vintage diner. Fast service. Tasty icecream. Good vibes. Must visit this hot summer.

    david l.

    Purity has the best ice cream in town. Do not get scared of the line. It moves quick and wellk worth the wait. All the flavors are great and you won't go wrong with what you choose.

    Junior soft serve in a waffle cone with caramel
    Beth R.

    Such a huge variety of flavors and toppings and fun choices. The staff was helpful and friendly, the atmosphere is fun and adorable! Decent prices and just a lovely little place!!

    Fried Chicken Sandwich and Cole Slaw

    See all

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of J C.
    1
    64
    17

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    17 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    15 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Mary H.
    59
    22
    7

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Bittersweet is the best EVER...... Great customer service both online and on the phone.. Love this place.....

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    This is the best ice cream I've ever had! I'm eating it right now. and loving every second. It's so mesmerizing. HELL YES

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of J C.
    0
    16
    0

    10 years ago

    Still good, but I think they changed their biscuit recipe. Not as tasty, in my opinion.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of B I.
    0
    252
    0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Great place for breakfast. Broadridge selection of pancake and egg choices and prompt, responsive service. Gluten free options as well.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    13 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Emma F.
    142
    24
    20

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Good ice cream, but pricey for what it is worth. My son was not impressed with their root beer floats either.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    9 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of F O.
    0
    678
    2

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of J S.
    21
    111
    6

    11 years ago

    Yummy. Great place to take kids and one of our favorite treats. Love the cookies and cream!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    A little pricey, but good stuff! I love the Sleepers Awake (coffee/chocolate) flavor, and their fun dipped cones. Plenty of outdoor seating.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Generous portions and their soy flavors are amazing!! Giving four stars only because the staff can be rude/unfriendly sometimes.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    14 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of C B.
    0
    9
    0

    12 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of R P.
    1
    34
    0

    12 years ago

    Congratulations on the renovation! Fun place, great service, and good setup that keeps the line moving.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    This is our favorite location when something needs to be celebrated. Ice cream is great - kids and grown-ups alike love it.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 years ago

    A must-visit place for ithaca tourists. Great variety of ice creams, friendly staff and lots of room to enjoy!!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    10 years ago

    Excellent ice cream, pies and muffins. A good place to stop by for a sweet treat. So nice that it is locally owned.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    16 years ago

    Yum-oh! Fav ice cream in Ithaca. Purity Egg Nogg is addictive, but expensive! 13$ for half a gallon, but well worth it.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 11 of 12

    Ask the Community - Purity Ice Cream

    Do u use tree nuts? Pistachio. Cashew. Walnut. Pecan. If so do use use shared equipment. Make non nut flavors like vanilla on same machines as nut flavors.…

    They do not make the ice cream. Byrne Dairy makes their ice cream for them

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    You might also consider

    Cold Stone Creamery

    Cold Stone Creamery

    3.8(6 reviews)
    1.0 mi

    Service is friendly and prompt, the ice cream is fantastic and by far this is one of the cleanest…read moreand most well organized stores I've been in. For this being a franchise I give it terrific marks for all aspects of the experience. Highly recommend if you enjoy friendly service with delicious ice cream on a hot day.

    We walked in and they were currently helping another customer. The store was very clean. The…read morecounters were organized. Everything seemed very presentable. We did not get the usual, "Welcome to Cold Stone," greeting we normally get from straddling at other Cold Stone stores. We were next in line. After the customer left, they stayed at the cash register and talked for a bit. Which seemed a bit odd to me since we were waiting. Usually, in other establishments, the staff is very attentive and is eager to handle the next customer. Or if we came in as a group, they tag team to get us all completed in a timely fashion and work on the next. This is not what happened. When she finally came to us, we started our order. I was paying attention to how she kept herself, what she did before and after the handling of our ice cream. As she was finishing the mixes in the ice cream, I immediately noticed something different. In all the locations I have been to, this one was different. She leveled our ice cream with the cup it was in. I made this face. I thought it was odd and possibly thought she was going to bug the rest of it in but she didn't. She actually took a bit away in order to level the top of it. When she gave us our order, the ice cream was pouring over the side after she leveled it. She didn't bother to wipe it. I absolutely love cold stone. I know this is a new store and customer service is important. I do hope this is something they are not taught. Ice cream was delicious but I gave it three stars for this above. Hope next time for a five star review.

    Photos
    Cold Stone Creamery
    Cold Stone Creamery
    Cold Stone Creamery

    See all

    Shtayburne Farm - Our 12 cheese and ice cream flight

    Shtayburne Farm

    4.6(68 reviews)
    20.8 mi
    $

    Such a fun experience!…read more So many fun flavors of icecream and different cheeses! Not to mention the adorable cows!! We tried the flight of 8-- 5 icecreams and 3 cheeses. For icecream we tasted the purple cow, peach cobbler, cookies and cream, black cherry chocolate, and the coffee heath crunch. My favorite was the coffee flavor- unlike other coffee icecreams I've had, this coffee had a much more robust and richer flavor profile. I liked cookies and cram-- always a classic. The cherry flavor was a tad too artificial for my liking. Purple cow was fine- very similar to the Cornell Dairy flavor- both are good though! I liked the peach cobbler flavor though wish there were more of the mix-ins. For cheeses, we tasted the butter garlic cheddar curds, the signature Summit Cheddar, and the plain quark. The garlic cheddar curds were so good, I took a bag home with me! Summit cheddar had a nice nutty flavor, not too 'sharp' though. The quark was interesting... it had a rather mild flavor and interesting texture (similar to boursin). I didn't love it, but I didn't hate it. I also took home a bag of the tomato basil cheese curds which I didn't like as much as the garlic ones. The tomato ones had a very subtle flavor-- too subtle. There was a line when we got there though it moves relatively quickly and is definitely worth the wait! Overall, I had so much fun picking out so many icecreams and cheeses to taste as well as seeing the cows! I would highly recommend Shtayburne Farm!

    Saw this place on Instagram and decided to try it out while on the scenic wine route. Conveniently…read morelocated just past Watkins Glen. A fourth generation dairy farm that excels in cheese and ice cream. We tried the 8 flight. 4 cheeses 4 ice creams. All were delicious. I tried the peach habernero Quark and immediately needed to buy one in the case. Its a super protein and so creamy. I can't wait to pair it with celery sticks for a nice snack. They offer a few coffee drinks as well. I ordered a caramel Americano. Next time I am in the area I will definitely come by again!

    Photos
    Shtayburne Farm - Cheese and ice cream flight.

    Cheese and ice cream flight.

    Shtayburne Farm - Cheese and ice cream flight

    Cheese and ice cream flight

    Shtayburne Farm

    See all

    Purity Ice Cream - icecream - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...