Ralph's Italian Ices

- 264-21 Union Tpke, Glen Oaks, NY 11004

For generations of New Yorkers, the first sighting of a Ralph's Italian Ices location opening marks the unofficial start of the spring and summer season. Among the most cherished locations across the city and Long Island is the popular spot situated in Glen Oaks, Queens. Ralph's Italian Ices at 264-21 Union Tpke is more than just an ice cream shop; it is a quintessential New York summer tradition, a nostalgic destination for families, friends, and dessert enthusiasts seeking a refreshing escape from the city heat.

Specializing in a phenomenal variety of frozen treats, Ralph's is famous for offering a staggering selection of over 60 flavors. This breadth of choice ensures that there is truly "something for everyone," catering to every craving, whether you are in the mood for something light and fruity or rich and decadent. The store’s offerings are categorized into two iconic groups: the dairy-free, intensely flavorful Water Ices and the ultra-smooth, creamy Creme Ices (sherbet), which boast a nostalgic, sherbet-like consistency.

While the traditional ices are the foundation of Ralph's reputation, this ice cream shop has continually evolved its menu to feature contemporary favorites. Specialties like the Doughnado—a popular combination of edible cookie dough and soft-serve—and the indulgent Ralph's Signature Sundaes prove that Ralph's is dedicated to remaining a trending and essential part of the local dessert scene. Customers describe the atmosphere as Casual, Quiet, and Trending, offering a relaxed yet exciting environment for a Quick visit.

It is important for local patrons to note the seasonal nature of this Glen Oaks establishment. Like many beloved Italian ice spots across the New York region, the Union Turnpike location is typically seasonal, meaning it operates primarily during the warmer months, generally closing down in late fall (around mid-November) and reopening as early as late February or March, marking the beginning of the local ice season. This temporary hiatus only adds to the excitement and anticipation when the doors finally open again, making that first cup of the season taste even sweeter.

The Ralph's Italian Ices location at 264-21 Union Tpke is ideally situated to serve residents of Eastern Queens and nearby Nassau County communities. Found on the busy Union Turnpike, the shop is a familiar landmark in the Glen Oaks neighborhood of Queens, NY, easily accessible from multiple surrounding areas.

While the shop itself is primarily designed for quick service and takeout, offering a focused, "grab-and-go" experience, accessibility for all patrons remains a consideration. The location provides a Wheelchair accessible parking lot, which assists with convenient access from a vehicle. Patrons should be aware that the space is designed for In-store shopping and quick service, with the ambiance being one of relaxed efficiency, where the focus is on getting your treat quickly and moving on. As noted by customers, there is typically no seating available, as it is strictly a takeout operation.

The combination of a central location on a major thoroughfare and ample parking access makes this Ralph's a highly convenient spot for people passing through or making a dedicated trip for their favorite sweet fix. Its address, 264-21 Union Tpke, Glen Oaks, NY 11004, USA, places it at a major intersection in a residential and commercial area, perfect for that spontaneous sweet treat craving.

Ralph's Italian Ices in Glen Oaks focuses on delivering frozen deliciousness with a variety of service options to meet modern consumer needs. The services offered center around convenience and a broad menu of frozen desserts:

• In-Store Shopping: The primary service method, allowing customers to browse and order from the extensive flavor selection right at the counter.

• Takeout: All orders are generally considered takeout, as the location does not offer a sit-down dining area.

• Delivery: Providing convenience by offering Delivery service, allowing Queens and Long Island residents to enjoy their favorite ices and ice creams at home.

• Mobile Payment: Accepting NFC mobile payments in addition to Credit cards and Debit cards, making transactions quick and effortless.

• Party Supplies: Offering large-format options like the Full Tub Water Ice (2 1/2 Gal. ) and Hard Ice Cream ( Party Tub) for gatherings and events, making them a go-to source for party desserts.

Ralph's Italian Ices has solidified its reputation through the quality and variety of its frozen confections. The highlights of the Glen Oaks location's offerings are truly what make it a Great dessert destination:

• The Flavor Variety: Home to over 60 flavors of Italian Ices and ice creams, providing unmatched selection in the area. This includes classics and unique options across both Water Ices and the fan-favorite Creme Ices (sherbet).

• Iconic Creme Ices: Highly praised by customers for their "smooth, flavorful, and totally nostalgic" quality. Creme Ices are a must-try for those new to the Ralph's experience, providing a rich, creamy texture akin to sorbet.

• The Twister: A specialty item offering the perfect marriage of textures and flavors—your choice of refreshing Italian ice layered between smooth, creamy Soft Serve Ice Cream for a balanced sweet and tart treat ($10.00).

• The Doughnado: A trending specialty item combining edible cookie dough with soft-serve ice cream, available in popular flavors such as Birthday Cake, Triple Choc. Brownie, and Chocolate Chip Chunk ($10.75).

• Specialty Sundaes: A vast selection of creative and indulgent desserts, including the Hot Fudge Brownie, Strawberry ShortCake, P.B. Crunch, and the decadent Dubai Sundae ($23.00), ensuring a truly luxurious dessert experience.

• Artic Shakes: Thick, creamy shakes blended with creme ice, featuring unique options like the Triple Chocolate Ralphie and the coffee-inspired Ralphaccino ($10.25).

• The Ralphie Waffel Sandwich: A unique warm dessert featuring a light, crispy Belgian waffle with soft-serve ice cream in the middle ($10.50).

• Healthier Options: Catering to diverse preferences with refreshing options like the Real Fruit Smoothies and the nutritious Açaí bowl (starting at $13.50).

For local residents planning a visit to secure their seasonal sweet fix, or for those wishing to inquire about catering or party tubs, here is the essential contact information for the Glen Oaks location:

Ralph's Italian Ices

Address: 264-21 Union Tpke, Glen Oaks, NY 11004, USA (Queens, NY)

Phone: (718) 343-8724

Patrons should remember that this location is seasonal. During its operating months (typically spring through mid-fall), the store is usually open daily, with operating hours often running from approximately 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM, though hours can vary by day and time of the season.

If you are a New York local craving a frozen dessert, choosing Ralph's Italian Ices on Union Turnpike is a choice steeped in tradition, quality, and variety. What is truly worth choosing here is the deep-rooted Queens nostalgia combined with an innovative, expansive menu.

The primary reason Ralph's is a perennial favorite is the quality of their Ices. Unlike typical shaved ice, Ralph's Italian Ices—especially the highly-recommended Creme Ices—are noted for their smooth texture and intense flavor that genuinely tastes like summer. It’s an essential, non-negotiable part of the warm weather experience in Queens.

Beyond the traditional offerings, the menu’s creativity and sheer volume of options are compelling. The ability to grab an iconic Water Ice, an indulgent Signature Sundae, or a modern, trending dessert like the Doughnado or Twister all in one spot makes it a unique sweet destination. They cater seamlessly to individuals, as a great spot for a Quick visit, or for large group orders with their party-sized tubs.

Finally, the customer experience contributes significantly to its reputation. Despite the possibility of long lines during peak summer hours, the service is consistently praised as Friendly and efficient. When you choose Ralph's Italian Ices, you are choosing a piece of New York culinary heritage and a guarantee of a truly delicious, cold, and sweet treat.

Ralph's Italian Ices

264-21 Union Tpke, Glen Oaks, NY 11004, USA