Ralph’s Italian Ices

- 73-01 Metropolitan Ave, Middle Village, NY 11379

For generations of New Yorkers, the arrival of warm weather is synonymous with one thing: the opening of Ralph’s Italian Ices. More than just an ice cream shop, Ralph’s is a celebrated, local institution that has perfected the art of the frozen treat. The Middle Village location, situated on the bustling Metropolitan Avenue, continues this rich tradition, offering a dazzling, expansive menu that goes far beyond simple Italian Ices. It's the ultimate destination for anyone in Queens looking for a refreshing, flavor-packed pick-me-up.

Ralph's Italian Ices is not only famous for its hundreds of unique flavors—ranging from classic Water Ices to rich Crème Ices—but also for its indulgent Arctic Shakes, creamy Milk Shakes, and fruity Smoothies. The core experience here is simple, casual, and focused entirely on quality and variety. It is designed for a quick visit, catering perfectly to New York's on-the-go lifestyle while still providing a joyful, nostalgic experience, especially for families—the shop is highly regarded as Good for kids.

While the business model is primarily Takeout, the reputation alone often results in a short wait, a testament to the beloved nature of its products. As one local customer noted, even a 15-minute line is "worthy" of the reward, especially when the weather heats up. This Middle Village spot is a seasonal treasure, eagerly anticipated by the community year after year.

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The Middle Village location of Ralph’s Italian Ices is found at a prime Queens address: 73-01 Metropolitan Ave, Middle Village, NY 11379, USA. This placement on a major thoroughfare makes it a well-known landmark and easily accessible by car or public transit for residents across Queens and beyond.

Being a popular, seasonal spot, customers should be aware that it operates as a Takeout establishment, meaning there is no dedicated dine-in space—the experience is designed to be a quick, enjoyable stop. For those driving to the location, Paid street parking is the available option in the immediate vicinity. New Yorkers know that finding a spot requires a little patience, but for a Fun Bucket or a classic Lemon Ice, it is a worthwhile hunt.

A point of interest for local users is the occasional change in the specific premises along Metropolitan Avenue. Recent customer feedback has noted that the shop might occasionally move across the street or change spots—a common occurrence in dynamic New York neighborhoods—so patrons should always be observant of signage if they do not see the shop immediately at the listed address. The vibrant, casual, and highly popular nature of the business, however, ensures it never stays a hidden gem for long.

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Ralph’s Italian Ices is dedicated to offering a broad range of frozen treats and beverages with maximum efficiency, focusing on the Quick visit model:

• Takeout Service: Primary service option focused on speed and efficiency to manage the high volume of customers during peak season.
• Extensive Water Ices Menu: Offers traditional, fat-free, and cholesterol-free Italian Ices in over 20 standard flavors, including classics like Lemon Ice, Rainbow, and Watermelon.
• Gourmet Crème Ices Selection: Provides a creamy, sherbet-like option with a truly vast array of flavors, such as Rainbow Cookie, Cannoli, Pistachio, and Key Lime Pie.
• Specialty Frozen Drinks: Features Arctic Shakes (blends of Ice and milk), traditional Milk Shakes (including Cake Batter and Black & White), and fruit Smoothies.
• Variety of Sizes: Serves all products in multiple sizes, from a Kiddie portion to a Fun Bucket for sharing.
• No Sugar Added Options: Includes a selection of popular, reduced-sugar Water Ices and Crème Ices like Lemon and Cappuccino.
• Coffee Beverages: Offers an entire line of coffee-based drinks, notably the Ralphaccino Arctic Shakes, catering to those who need a caffeine and sweet fix simultaneously.

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What makes Ralph’s Italian Ices a local fixture and a must-visit for sweet-lovers in the NYC area are its signature elements:

• The sheer Scale of the Menu: With over 50 Crème Ice and 20 Water Ice flavors, the variety is unparalleled, guaranteeing a flavor for every palate, no matter how specific the craving.
• Crème Ice Innovation: The Crème Ices are a true highlight, acting as a rich, creamy hybrid between a water ice and traditional ice cream. Must-try unique flavors include Jelly Ring, Birthday Cake, and Gummi Beer.
• The Arctic Shake Experience: These blended drinks are a signature offering, combining the lightness of an Italian Ice with the richness of a shake. The Caramel Latte Arctic Shake is a standout, noted in customer reviews for being "really nice."
• A True Seasonal Tradition: Ralph’s marks the start of summer for many New York families, making a visit a nostalgic and essential annual ritual.
• Versatility in Offerings: The inclusion of both classic ice cream, Ices, shakes, and specialty sundaes means it serves all frozen dessert needs in one place.
• Generous Portions: The larger Fun Bucket size for ices is a favorite for sharing at gatherings or simply stocking up for a weekend treat.

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For New York patrons interested in visiting this iconic spot in Middle Village, Queens:

Address: 73-01 Metropolitan Ave, Middle Village, NY 11379, USA

Note: As a dedicated seasonal takeout shop, phone numbers and hours of operation often vary by season and may be best checked via local listings or social media for the most current information before a visit, especially outside of peak summer months.

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While the classic Lemon Ice remains the gold standard for a refreshing, classic Italian Ice experience—and is highly recommended for first-time visitors—Ralph’s Italian Ices truly shines in its unique Crème Ice offerings. If you're looking for an indulgent flavor that captures the creativity of the menu, you must try a Crème Ice.

Specifically, the Rainbow Cookie Crème Ice is a signature choice that celebrates a classic Italian-American bakery favorite in a frozen, creamy format. It delivers the almond, chocolate, and raspberry notes of the cookie in a rich, smooth ice. Alternatively, for a truly decadent experience, the Choc. Fudge Brownie Crème Ice offers the deep flavor of chocolate mousse with chunks of fudge and brownie, creating a texture that’s thick and satisfying like high-end ice cream.

For beverage lovers, the Caramel Latte Arctic Shake is a local favorite, blending a coffee-flavored Crème Ice with the texture of a shake for a perfectly sweet and caffeinated treat. Regardless of your final choice—from a simple Pineapple Water Ice to a complex Peanut Butter Blast Milk Shake—a trip to Ralph’s Italian Ices on Metropolitan Avenue is a mandatory piece of the New York summer experience. It’s an easy, casual, and delicious way to beat the heat.

Ralph’s Italian Ices

73-01 Metropolitan Ave, Middle Village, NY 11379, USA