Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices

- 70-54 Austin St, Forest Hills, NY 11375

For nearly a century, when New Yorkers crave a classic frozen treat, they think of Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices. What started as a humble venture on Staten Island in 1928 has blossomed into a beloved New York City tradition, offering an unparalleled selection of icy delights to cool down any summer—or even off-season—day. The Forest Hills location in Queens continues this rich legacy, serving up everything from the refreshing classic Italian ices to rich, creamy ice cream concoctions. It’s more than just a dessert shop; it’s a taste of New York history and a genuine family-run business that has consistently delivered quality and flavor for generations.

The original story of Ralph’s began with Ralph Silvestro, an Italian immigrant who started selling his homemade ices throughout Staten Island in 1928. By 1949, the overwhelming popularity of his treats allowed him to open his first retail location. The family legacy continued when his daughters, Lucille and Elise, took over the business in 1966, expanding the menu and maintaining the high standards of quality. Today, Ralph’s is a third-generation, family-run business that has expanded across the five boroughs, Long Island, and New Jersey, with each franchise maintaining the original spirit and massive, flavorful menu. The Forest Hills shop in Queens carries on this tradition, ensuring that locals never have to travel far for their frozen fix.

Location and Accessibility

The Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices in Queens is perfectly situated at 70-54 Austin St, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA. This location places it right in the heart of Forest Hills, a vibrant and easily accessible neighborhood known for its excellent dining and shopping. The street-level storefront makes it a convenient walk-in spot, ideal for a quick grab-and-go treat.

Austin Street is well-serviced by public transportation, making it easy for residents across Queens and beyond to visit. The shop is typically within a reasonable walking distance of key transit points, connecting it to the broader New York City subway and bus network. While specific on-site seating is often limited, with some locations noted for having a "walk-in" atmosphere or possibly awkward bench seating, the convenience of the location ensures that a delicious frozen treat is never far away. The area is generally considered pedestrian-friendly, allowing guests to easily enjoy their treats while strolling through one of Queens’ most charming areas.

Services Offered

Ralph's is famous for its vast menu that goes far beyond traditional Italian ice, offering over 100 flavors across multiple product categories. Whether you prefer a dairy-free classic or a decadent sundae, there’s an option for everyone, including those with dietary sensitivities like lactose intolerance, who can enjoy the non-dairy water ices.

• Italian Ices (Water Ices): The original classic, a smooth, non-dairy, water-based frozen treat. The menu boasts a colossal number of flavors, including fan favorites like Mango and the original Orange and Lemon flavors that have remained unchanged since 1928.
• Crème Ices: A dairy-based treat that is richer than water ice but not as heavy as traditional ice cream, often described as similar to sherbet.
• Soft Serve and Hard Ice Cream: Traditional frozen dairy desserts, available in standard flavors like Chocolate, Vanilla, and Twist soft serve.
• Twisters: A signature combination where soft serve ice cream is layered with your choice of water ice or crème ice flavor.
• Milkshakes: Classic shakes in a variety of flavors including Cotton Candy, Cookie Monster, Mint Chip, Strawberry, Cake Batter, and more.
• Arctic Shakes: Blended specialty shakes with unique flavor combinations and toppings, such as the Ralphaccino Mocha, Peanut Butter Blast, and Birthday Cake Shake.
• Smoothies: A refreshing blend of fruits and ice, with flavors like Cherry Bomb, Pineapple, Strawberry Margarita, Mango, and Blue Hawaii.
• Icebergs: A dessert where soft serve ice cream is floated atop a Ralph's smoothie, creating a delicious layered experience.
• Signature Sundaes: Decadent creations like the Peanut Butter Crunch Sundae, Hot Fudge Brownie Sundae, and the elaborate Rainbow Cookie Sundae.
• Dough-nados: Blended treats incorporating edible cookie dough in flavors such as Chocolate Chip and Triple Chocolate Brownie.
• Edible Cookie Dough: Available by the cup or pint for those who prefer their treat straight, in various sizes from a kids' scoop to a pint.

Features / Highlights

Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices stands out in the competitive New York dessert market for several key reasons, cemented by its decades of local history and commitment to a massive, inclusive menu.

• Nearly 100 Years of NYC Tradition: Since its founding in 1928, Ralph’s has become an irreplaceable part of the New York summertime experience, maintaining a nostalgic atmosphere that appeals to locals and visitors alike.
• Vegan and Dairy-Free Options: The extensive selection of original Water Ices (Italian Ices) are naturally dairy-free and vegan-friendly, ensuring that almost everyone can enjoy a treat.
• Over 100 Flavors: Few places in New York offer such a massive variety of flavors across all product lines, making every visit a new opportunity to discover a favorite, from classic fruit flavors to rich, creative combinations.
• Third-Generation Family Business: The commitment to quality and customer service is a hallmark of this family-run operation, now overseen by Ralph Silvestro’s grandsons.
• Generous Portions and Value: Customers frequently note the impressive size of the servings, often commenting on the value they receive for their purchase, particularly with the over-the-top sundaes and twisters.
• High Customer Service Scores: Positive reviews often highlight the friendly staff, who are known for being accommodating and offering free samples to help customers navigate the overwhelming selection of flavors.

Contact Information

To enjoy a classic New York frozen treat, visit Ralph's Famous Italian Ices in the heart of Queens.

Address: 70-54 Austin St, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA

Phone: (347) 238-1298 (Note: This is the verified phone number for the 70-52/70-54 Austin St Queens location)

What is Worth Choosing

While the sheer volume of choices at Ralph’s can be daunting, there are several menu items that represent the ultimate Ralph’s experience and are consistently praised by locals.

For the ultimate indulgence, the Signature Sundaes are a must-try. The Peanut Butter Crunch Sundae is particularly noted for its generous serving size and delicious combination of flavors. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, the Rainbow Cookie Sundae offers a unique New York-centric dessert experience.

If you are looking for the original flavor that started it all, choose the classic Italian Ices (Water Ices). These are perfect for a hot day, offering a refreshing, smooth texture that is a step above typical shaved ice. Customers highly recommend the Mango Ice for its authentic and intense fruit flavor. Since these are water-based, they are also an excellent choice for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a lighter, non-dairy dessert option.

For those who want the best of both worlds, the Twisters are the ideal hybrid, blending the creaminess of soft-serve ice cream with the fruity punch of Italian ice. Finally, don't overlook the creative Arctic Shakes—especially the Ralphaccino Mocha or Caramel Latte—for a dessert that acts as both a beverage and a treat. No matter what you choose, a visit to Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices in Forest Hills promises a classic New York dessert that lives up to its legendary name.

Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices

70-54 Austin St, Forest Hills, NY 11375, USA