The Big Chill
The Big Chill Photos
Business Info
You might also consider
More like The Big Chill
Recommended Reviews - The Big Chill
Start your review...
Reviews With Photos
Being on College Ave for dinner at an Italian place a block away, looked for a different kind of dessert and noticed this on the way in. Really like the vintage look to it with the neon lights and signage. There was a short line to get in, but it moved fairly quick and we were able to order. I ended getting the fudge ice cream in a waffle cone. It comes with a small spoon scooper which was helpful - though mine didn't have any fudge in it. I should have added toppings to play it safe. Also - the staff is very friendly and honest: my CAD stuck together and the guy gave me the extra $10 I had given in error. Well done
After a hearty dinner nearby, I stopped by The Big Chill--a classic, retro ice cream spot that's perfect for unwinding or catching up. The interior nails that throwback vibe, making you feel like you're stepping back in time. Service was friendly and fast, adding to the relaxed experience. I went for the Cookie Monster flavour, which looked amazing and, luckily, wasn't overly sweet--a win in my book! All in all, it's a great spot to grab a sweet treat and soak in some nostalgia.
Best ice cream I had all year. Chocolate Peanut Butter. Actual chocolate with thick arse slivers of peanut butter. In a freshly made waffle cone! Need nothing more. Cute little place, and almost dropped it down to a 4 star because of the ridiculous line. Ill go 4.5 ...
A neighbourhood institution! Love the diner aesthetic. Love the dark chocolate caramel sea salt -- super rich and not too sweet! The single scoop cones are generously sized, and they come with a little Oreo on top. Also, make sure to check out their arcade room in the back! Foosball and arcade games take this place over the top.
Love this place for night time treats - recently had the peanut butter crunch & the watermelon (with chocolate chips!!) sherbet combo. The itty bitty oreo cookie is an adorable touch! Can't go wrong with any of their flavours & you have the option of cup or waffle cone. I REALLY appreciate that they allow 'half & half' with the one scoop! Usually there's a lineup - but their service is highly efficient so its quick. My ordering has not been perfected yet, so I alway bumble around trying to use the shop's lingo to get my order accurate. Will be back!
This place is probably hands down the best ice cream spot in Toronto. As soon as you enter, there's a fun and joyful vibe. There's cows everywhere and it's absolutely the best part. There's usually long lines in the summer so expect a wait, though it goes by fairly quickly. My go to orders have been the cookies and cream on a waffle cone and the super kid in a cup. The ice cream is so creamy and delicious. It always hits the spot. My husband is more of a chocolate person so he's tried the Ferrero rocher, chocolate, etc. He's loved every flavor so you can't really go wrong with any choice.
Ice cream was freezer burnt but that waffle cone more than made up for it. Salted caramel was pretty good.
It felt like a old school diner which is rare to find these days in Toronto, I got the espresso ice cream 7 bucks freshly made waffle cone is a pretty damn good deal, the ice cream tasted Amazing not too sweet the waffle cone makes up for that, and orrery decent portion of ice cream, definitely one of the best ice creams I had in a while, very creamy texture and I can tell they don't add preservatives like carageenan, overall very tasty ice cream
Nice old school looking spot Not sure how I never noticed it before Good ice cream is amazing, no...!? Cookies n cream VERY good.
Nice ice cream place with a variety of flavours and generous portions. The Belgian waffle was made to order and was both crispy and soft. Each order includes a topping and sauce of choice. We ordered the cookie dough ice cream, but it was more like vanilla and chocolate chip ice cream; there were no cookie dough pieces which was disappointing. But the waffle made up for this The waffle cones were really popular, and I would likely try this next time.
I highly recommend Ferro Rocher, Salted Caramel, Funky Chunky Chocolate, and Chocolate Peanut Butter! Make sure you get the waffle cone! Two stars were dedicated because I specifically asked the girl to make me a fresh waffle cone (literally the reason I went was because I heard they were made-to-order) and she flat out said no.
Pro tip: do not eat ice cream when your sinuses are clogged. You won't taste anything. Brrr the Big Chill! A pretty solid store with a variety of ice cream flavours! I got two scoops: the dark chocolate with sea salt and the pistachio almond. Given that I couldn't really taste much, I can only comment on the ambience and the service. Because it was late Sunday and almost all other dessert places were closed, The Big Chill was pretty busy but all the employees were managing it well and all were super nice. For the pistachio almond I could feel the almonds which added texture and I could taste the salt in the dark chocolate ice cream. There's enough seating with lots of neon signs and low ceiling lamps to make you feel like you're meant to be in some retro music video. I'll definitely return to actually taste the ice cream next time!
Love this ice cream place! Always excellent service. I always get the Watermelon Sherbert, small size. It is amazing!
1 year ago
she's cute... they weren't doing samples because of taste of italy. But the inside was super cute and I tried the Oero salted caramel. Wish it had more chunks of oero, too much caramel but it was good! They had quite a few flavours to choose from and had waffles as well. Friend got the black cherry, and it tasted very similar to a red freezie. Service was super fast, and they moved big lines efficiently The inside is nostalgic interior and lots of cow theme! read more
It's really really cute in here. It's hard not to stop by as you walk down the street because the smell of freshly made waffle cones drifts through the air. They have many flavours and lots of options (cups, cones, floats, shakes, waffles, etc) but they're a little pricey. A single scoop in a cup costs around $6. They don't sample which sucks if you're not sure what something tastes like but maybe it's because they get really busy. They also only accept debit and cash. read more
1 year ago
Service was terrible. I asked if I could sample a flavor and the worker gave me attitude and said I could only sample 1... I ended up ordering a double scoop on a regular cone and he very rudely advised that the ice cream I chose were too runny and it would make a huge mess if I didn't get it in a cup or waffle cone instead..... I had to force him to put one on the regular cone and another in a cup. Shouldn't be the customers fault.... read more
Being on College Ave for dinner at an Italian place a block away, looked for a different kind of dessert and noticed this on the way in. Really like the vintage look to it with the neon lights and signage. There was a short line to get in, but it moved fairly quick and we were able to order. I ended getting the fudge ice cream in a waffle cone. It comes with a small spoon scooper which was helpful - though mine didn't have any fudge in it. I should have added toppings to play it safe. Also - the staff is very friendly and honest: my CAD stuck together and the guy gave me the extra $10 I had given in error. Well done read more
After a hearty dinner nearby, I stopped by The Big Chill--a classic, retro ice cream spot that's perfect for unwinding or catching up. The interior nails that throwback vibe, making you feel like you're stepping back in time. Service was friendly and fast, adding to the relaxed experience. I went for the Cookie Monster flavour, which looked amazing and, luckily, wasn't overly sweet--a win in my book! All in all, it's a great spot to grab a sweet treat and soak in some nostalgia. read more
4 years ago
Best ice cream I had all year. Chocolate Peanut Butter. Actual chocolate with thick arse slivers of peanut butter. In a freshly made waffle cone! Need nothing more. Cute little place, and almost dropped it down to a 4 star because of the ridiculous line. Ill go 4.5 ... read more
A neighbourhood institution! Love the diner aesthetic. Love the dark chocolate caramel sea salt -- super rich and not too sweet! The single scoop cones are generously sized, and they come with a little Oreo on top. Also, make sure to check out their arcade room in the back! Foosball and arcade games take this place over the top. read more
Love this place for night time treats - recently had the peanut butter crunch & the watermelon (with chocolate chips!!) sherbet combo. The itty bitty oreo cookie is an adorable touch! Can't go wrong with any of their flavours & you have the option of cup or waffle cone. I REALLY appreciate that they allow 'half & half' with the one scoop! Usually there's a lineup - but their service is highly efficient so its quick. My ordering has not been perfected yet, so I alway bumble around trying to use the shop's lingo to get my order accurate. Will be back! read more
3 years ago
This place is probably hands down the best ice cream spot in Toronto. As soon as you enter, there's a fun and joyful vibe. There's cows everywhere and it's absolutely the best part. There's usually long lines in the summer so expect a wait, though it goes by fairly quickly. My go to orders have been the cookies and cream on a waffle cone and the super kid in a cup. The ice cream is so creamy and delicious. It always hits the spot. My husband is more of a chocolate person so he's tried the Ferrero rocher, chocolate, etc. He's loved every flavor so you can't really go wrong with any choice. read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
It felt like a old school diner which is rare to find these days in Toronto, I got the espresso ice cream 7 bucks freshly made waffle cone is a pretty damn good deal, the ice cream tasted Amazing not too sweet the waffle cone makes up for that, and orrery decent portion of ice cream, definitely one of the best ice creams I had in a while, very creamy texture and I can tell they don't add preservatives like carageenan, overall very tasty ice cream read more
5 years ago
Nice ice cream place with a variety of flavours and generous portions. The Belgian waffle was made to order and was both crispy and soft. Each order includes a topping and sauce of choice. We ordered the cookie dough ice cream, but it was more like vanilla and chocolate chip ice cream; there were no cookie dough pieces which was disappointing. But the waffle made up for this The waffle cones were really popular, and I would likely try this next time. read more
4 years ago
I highly recommend Ferro Rocher, Salted Caramel, Funky Chunky Chocolate, and Chocolate Peanut Butter! Make sure you get the waffle cone! Two stars were dedicated because I specifically asked the girl to make me a fresh waffle cone (literally the reason I went was because I heard they were made-to-order) and she flat out said no. read more
8 years ago
Pro tip: do not eat ice cream when your sinuses are clogged. You won't taste anything. Brrr the Big Chill! A pretty solid store with a variety of ice cream flavours! I got two scoops: the dark chocolate with sea salt and the pistachio almond. Given that I couldn't really taste much, I can only comment on the ambience and the service. Because it was late Sunday and almost all other dessert places were closed, The Big Chill was pretty busy but all the employees were managing it well and all were super nice. For the pistachio almond I could feel the almonds which added texture and I could taste the salt in the dark chocolate ice cream. There's enough seating with lots of neon signs and low ceiling lamps to make you feel like you're meant to be in some retro music video. I'll definitely return to actually taste the ice cream next time! read more
2 years ago
5 years ago
Love this ice cream place! Always excellent service. I always get the Watermelon Sherbert, small size. It is amazing! read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
After hitting the beach, we decided to stop by a dessert place and chose ice cream! The two flavours we got was toffee almond in a waffle cone and chocolate chip cookie dough in a cup. The toffee almond was nice and sweet but the sweetness is light. I normally don't finish the waffle cones but I ate everything. My hubby had the chocolate chip cookie dough but I definitely had to try some. He said it tasted good but was extremely light in sweetness and he said he liked it because cookie dough flavour tends to be overly sweet to the point where you can't finish it. Overall, great place and has a ton of different flavours for everyone! read more
2 years ago
Nice old school ice cream shop with a dizzying number of flavours to choose from. If you've never been before, give yourself some time to review all options. There's something for everyone. On this visit I tried a cup with 2 scoops. We had the pistachio almond and funky chocolate. I just love this combo and would definitely go back again! read more
The Big Chill is a cute retro diner styled ice cream shop in Little Italy. Please do be warned that they only take cash! They have a good range of flavours. I got one scoop of the pistachio almond flavour one and was very impressed. The pistachio flavour is strong, and they definitely do not skimp out on the crushed nuts. It was also a pretty decent size as well. P.s. Who else gets their ice cream cone in a cup? When they ask me if I want a cone or a cup I get both I love snacking on the cone, but hate how it gets messy when the ice cream starts melting. Getting your cone in a cup solves this issue! read more
7 years ago
I was really craving ice cream and always seem to walk past this place. I finally gave it a chance and was immediately drawn by the ambience. It has a diner feel to it which I really like. It's moderately priced but keep in mind it is CASH ONLY. I got the super kid - bubble gum flavour ice cream on sugar cone and I liked the addition of the mini Oreo. It was pretty to look at and had a nice subtle taste. Perfect for a summer day in Toronto. $ read more
Do you like sugar waffle cones? How about just-made sugar waffle cones?? Well this ice cream parlour makes FRESH sugar waffle cones right in front of you while you wait in line pondering over an ice cream flavour to try. The interior has a retro diner vibe. You can eat your ice cream on a stool at the counter or at a booth. The lines are long and though it takes a bit of time to get to the front, the quirky cow decorations will amuse you and be the topic of conversation that you'll realize it's already your turn to order! read more
8 years ago
TIP: Cash ONLY!!! As a person who LOVES ice cream, I can't believe it took me this long to check out this place. Situated in Little Italy is this colourful ice cream joint that not only serves ice cream, but belgian waffles, frozen yogurt, sorbets, banana splits, sundaes, smoothies, floats, milkshakes. Talk about the wide selection of desserts that this place offers. It sure caters to people of all ages. I checked out this place on a really hot weekday at 1pm and there was NO ONE but me and the guy behind the counter. I am glad about this because I was able to sample a whole bunch of flavours without feeling like I was in the way of business. It also helped that the guy was very nice. In the end, I went with 2 scoops (Toffee Almond and Ferraro Rocher) on a sugar cone! The flavours complimented each other well and they weren't too sweet. The scoops were huge and what I didn't know was that they top their ice creams with a dolop of whipped cream and a mini oreo cookie! Awesome! The interior of this place is very pink and looked very much in the 80's(?). Funky and fun. The outside is very colourful, with pink and bright green benches for people to enjoy their ice cream. The colour sure made me feel happier when I was eating the cone. Love the vibe here! They serve 31 flavours and their list of flavours are posted on the wall near the entrance (not sure if there are actually 31 flavours at once, but there were at least 20 when I went!)! I need to come back to try other flavours! read more
15 years ago
With Toronto Hot Hot Summer, I need a cold cold ice cream... I need to go to The BIG CHILL!! Even before dinner at Frank's Kitchen, I walked by The Big Chill, I know what I want for dessert! I told my new Yelp friend I need to go there... tonight.. right after dinner and nothing going to stop me!! I saw the fear in her eyes... it maybe the first and last outing ever with her! We were stuffed after dinner.. Yelp friend kept telling she is full.. I told her just watch me eat my ice cream and be a good girl... Line up was short..and I got my ice cream............... Pomegranate Sherbet/Ginger - I love pomegranate for the reason that I kind of naive to believe in all the health benefit that it provides.. and it tasted good too... win win for me... - Ginger though a little disappointing.. as it is more sweet and vanilla and lacking that gingery taste.. there were some ginger bits inside but did nothing to enhanced the flavour.. I love the decoration of The Big Chill..as it feels like a retro ice cream parlour but a nicer, cleaner version... (I still getting over my Dutch Dreams experience) oh and that awesome sweetness of fresh waffles in the air.. just smelling that for an extensive period of time might put 1 lb or 2 on me!! I will definitely be back to try out other flavours.. and no one is going to stop me!! :) read more
Probably my favorite dessert place so far in Toronto. They're open late, everyone is pretty nice, and it's got this old school ice cream parlor vibe that is irresistible to a nostalgic kid like me. I love the mom and pop feel in here. It's just missing a good counter space to drink your ice cream shake at! Absolutely love their waffle cones. You should definitely opt to spend an extra buck to get one. It makes the experience five times better. They're made fresh here and the place smells delicious when you walk in because of it. I have yet to get anything other than a cone here, despite them offering crepes, banana splits, milkshakes, sundaes, etc. I guess I'll just have to come back soon. The only drawbacks are: they're cash only (womp womp), a little pricey for just ice cream, and I haven't found a flavor I like more than the chocolate peanut butter. Talk about first world problems. read more
11 years ago
This establishment is a cute retro ice cream parlour with cow figurines lining each and every shelf and then some. There's quite a bit of seating inside, but more is added outside in the summer months for the crowds. This is the perfect place to grab a sweet treat after a meal. The one thing you absolutely need to get is their home made waffles. Give them about 4 minutes to prep that bad boy for you. It's warm, fresh, fluffy, and you'll smell it before you see it! Make sure you plan out your choice of ice cream, yes/no to whip cream, toppings, and sauce. It's ginormous (great for sharing!) and well worth $10. Their banana splits are average. However, their ice cream is great! They offer samples so be sure to try a few before you commit. I'm a fan of the Ferrero Rocher, Skor, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, and Caribou Tracks. I still have yet to make my way through their whole selection. Unfortunately, it's Cash Only though so be sure you got those dolla dolla bills. Otherwise, run over to the BMO across the street before your ice cream melts. read more
The cover of this book is a great cover. The decor is a great throwback to our high school days and the reminder of the innocents of the Art Deco age. If you're here for ice cream, then you'll be sadly disappointed. I wouldn't have expected supermarket ice cream to have been better. I was naively expecting them to have changed their formula to give some of the new entrants in the ice cream market a run for their money. read more
Their mint chip was okay. My absolute favourite flavour tasted just okay. Chips were little bits instead of chunkier ones I had hoped for and the mint was cooling but not memorable. Would come back when in the neighbourhood. Definitely good for summer days and nights. Service is great, you can ask to try a flavour or a few. read more
4 years ago
Super cute retro interior, the walls were covered in a huge collection of cow themed decor - great place to take aesthetic photos. There was a small room with arcade games. The ice cream and waffles were really good. read more
6 years ago
I've been here a few times now but this time went with the White Strawberry Swirl in a fresh waffle cone. The waffle cone being fresh was a nice surprise- most ice cream places don't do that. There's SO MANY different flavours to choose from, they're all so unique too. Of course you have your classic vanilla, chocolate and strawberry but there's also a wide selection of other flavours (like tiger tail, blueberry, black raspberry cheesecake etc) I'll be back again this summer, I can't stay away-- it's too good!! read more
3 years ago
10 years ago
Umm ya this place is open late enough that you can have dinner and go here for dessert instead. What? Ice cream you say? On a what? This place has enough irons to heat the place on a cold day perhaps... Irons to make cones, waffles, and yes they have the capability to make sundaes with toppings, banana splits and all sort of ice cream goodies. After a meal that didn't necessarily fill me up I who almost never eats dessert had one. I don't count ice cream as dessert that's just me. It's like breathing and I can inhale it because it's just too good to pass up and not optimize your stomach space to not make room for. I went with a sundae. I wanted caramel and nuts and I went with an ice cream that would be appropriate so I chose chocolate peanut butter. The sundae was 2.5 scoops packed into a tall see through plastic cup topped with caramel and a bit of whipped cream. I didn't want that much whipped cream so I asked to go light. They added a cute tiny Oreo to top it... much sexier than a cherry IMO. The spoon was small and hard to reach near the bottom of the cup. The ice cream was dark and rich but it didn't seem to have too much peanut butter in it. I was sort of expecting chunks but didn't necessarily get that. The peanuts topped up compensated though. It was a great sundae overall so I'm not going to complain. The place has a wonderful old parlor feel that is both nostalgic and functional while matching exactly what this place is so you get what you see and vice versa. It's comfortable inside to stay and have your treat and it's lit up like a lighthouse in a storm giving off the vibe that ya, you want to come in here don't you? I did. I did enter the doors and it was a sweet treat and pleasure to make your acquaintance. read more
4 years ago
Page 1 of 4
More info about The Big Chill
367 Manning Avenue
Toronto, ON M6G 2V6
Canada
Palmerston
Directions
(416) 960-2455
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.thebigchill.ca/
Full menu
Hours
Food & Alcohol
Indoor Amenities
Outdoor Amenities
Other Amenities
From the Business
More Info
Health Score
The Big Chill Reviews in Other Languages
You might also consider
Why does Yelp recommend reviews?
8 reviews that are not currently recommended
The reviews below are not factored into the business's overall star rating.
11 years ago
10 years ago
9 years ago
1 year ago
12 years ago
13 years ago
17 years ago
15 years ago
The Big Chill - icecream - Updated August 2026
People found The Big Chill by searching for…
Browse Articles
Browse Brands
Related Searches in Toronto, ON
Best Bagels Available in Toronto, Ontario
Best Gluten Free Breakfast Places in Toronto, Ontario
Best Rolled Ice Cream Shops Around Toronto, Ontario
Best Shakes Available in Toronto, Ontario
Best Smoothie Spots and Cafes in Toronto, Ontario
Best Vegan Restaurants to Try in Toronto, Ontario
Delicious Ice Cream Sundae Options in Toronto, Ontario
Delicious Ice Cream Treats in Toronto, Ontario
Discover Asian Dessert Options in Toronto, Ontario
Discover Authentic Filipino Food in Toronto, Ontario
Discover Coffee & Tea Options in Toronto, Ontario
Discover Juice Bars & Smoothies in Toronto, Ontario
Discover Soft Serve Ice Cream in Toronto, Ontario
Discover Vegan Desserts Near Toronto, Ontario
Discover the Best Macarons Available in Toronto, Ontario
Enjoy Classic Hamburger Options in Toronto, Ontario
Enjoy Custard Ice Cream in Toronto, Ontario
Enjoy Dairy Free Ice Cream Flavors in Toronto, Ontario
Enjoy Delicious Hot Dogs in Toronto, Ontario
Explore Custom Cakes Crafted in Toronto, Ontario
Explore Delicious Vegetarian Food in Toronto, Ontario
Explore Dessert Places Around Toronto, Ontario
Explore Ice Cream Shops Around Toronto, Ontario
Explore Popular Tea Rooms in Toronto, Ontario
Find Authentic Japanese Bakery Treats in Toronto, Ontario
Find Chocolatiers & Shops Around Toronto, Ontario
Find Delicious Chocolate Cake in Toronto, Ontario
Find the Best Homemade Ice Cream in Toronto, Ontario
Great Diners to Visit in Toronto, Ontario
Order Delicious Ice Cream Cake Near Toronto, Ontario
Order Fresh and Tasty Salad Options in Toronto, Ontario
Order Savory Empanadas Made Fresh in Toronto, Ontario
Popular Ice Cream Shop Near Toronto, Ontario
Popular Ice Cream Truck Stops in Toronto, Ontario
Refreshing Milk Tea Options in Toronto, Ontario
Refreshing Shaved Ice Treats in Toronto, Ontario
Savor Vegan Ice Cream Flavors in Toronto, Ontario
Taste Frozen Yogurt Favorites in Toronto, Ontario
Taste the Best Yogurt Shops in Toronto, Ontario
Taste the Finest Gelato Available in Toronto, Ontario
Top Candy Stores to Visit in Toronto, Ontario
Top Frozen Custard Spots to Try in Toronto, Ontario
Top-Rated Ice Cream Cakes Available in Toronto, Ontario
Try Delicious Bingsu Shaved Ice in Toronto, Ontario
Try Gelato Ice Cream Near You in Toronto, Ontario
Try the Best Banh Mi Sandwiches in Toronto, Ontario
Where to Get Great Waffles in Toronto, Ontario
Where to Get Mochi Treats in Toronto, Ontario
People who viewed The Big Chill also viewed
Dutch Dreams
150 reviews
Wychwood
$$
Summer's Ice Cream
194 reviews
Yorkville
$$
La Diperie
101 reviews
Riverdale, The Danforth
$
Ice Creamonology
55 reviews
Harbourfront
La Diperie
15 reviews
$$
Murphys Ice Cream Parlor
50 reviews
Streetsville
$
Scoops Ice Cream
53 reviews
Port Credit
$$
Lickadee Split
38 reviews
East York
$
Ed's Real Scoop
57 reviews
Roncesvalles
$$
Ed's Real Scoop
142 reviews
The Beach
$$