Ralphs Famous Italian Ices of Whitestone

- 12-48 Clintonville St, Whitestone, NY 11357

For generations of New Yorkers, the first taste of summer is synonymous with a cup of authentic, flavorful Italian ice, and in Queens, one name stands out above the rest: Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices. A true New York institution with roots dating back to 1928, Ralph’s has perfected the art of the frozen treat. The Whitestone location at 12-48 Clintonville St. offers a local slice of this delicious tradition, providing a vast and tempting menu that goes far beyond the classic water ice.

More than just an ice cream shop, this Whitestone favorite is a frozen dessert supplier that offers a refreshing escape from the city heat and a gathering spot for families and friends. With an overwhelming number of flavors—spanning over 100 choices across water ices and creamy sherberts—Ralph's caters to every conceivable craving, ensuring that every visit is a new and exciting discovery.

Location and Accessibility

Ralph's Famous Italian Ices of Whitestone is conveniently situated at 12-48 Clintonville St, Whitestone, NY 11357, USA, positioning it as an accessible destination for residents across Queens and beyond. The shop is nestled in the Whitestone neighborhood, known for its pleasant, local vibe and family-friendly atmosphere.

For those traveling by public transportation from within Queens or other parts of NYC, the location is best reached by a combination of rail and bus. The closest major transit hub is Flushing Main Street (served by the LIRR Port Washington Branch and the 7 subway line), which is approximately 2.2 miles away. From there, local MTA bus routes connect directly to the Whitestone area. Specifically, MTA Bus lines like the Q15/Q15A provide service near the location, with a stop such as 150 St/12 Av or 150 ST/14 Av being a short walk away. This makes it a “Good Transit” option, particularly for those familiar with the Queens bus network.

Driving is also a practical option in this part of Queens, and the location is easily reached via local streets and the Cross Island Parkway. The shop is designed for a quick visit, and its proximity to major Queens arteries makes it a perfect stop for a refreshing treat.

Services Offered

Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices of Whitestone is committed to serving the local community with flexibility and convenience. Their service model ensures you can enjoy your favorite frozen dessert in a way that suits your schedule. Services offered include:

• In-store shopping: Enjoy the full experience of choosing from their expansive menu in a casual, family-friendly setting.
• Takeout: Grab your cup, cone, or container to go for a quick treat on the move.
• Delivery: Have your favorite Italian ices, ice cream, or shakes brought directly to your home.
• In-store pickup: Order ahead and pick up your frozen treats quickly at the counter.

Features / Highlights

What truly sets Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices apart is its impressive variety, storied New York history, and community-focused atmosphere. Here are the main highlights:

• A New York Tradition Since 1928: The company’s history of quality and flavor spans over 90 years, beginning with Italian immigrant Ralph Silvestro in Staten Island. This deep tradition is part of the local experience.
• Over 100 Flavors: The selection is immense, including 30+ Water Ices, 60+ Crème Ices/Sherberts, traditional hard-pack Ice Cream, Soft Serve, and a variety of specialty drinks and sundaes.
• Unique Crème Ice (Sherbert) Selection: A standout offering is the Sherbert (also known as Crème Ice), which is a unique, dairy-based hybrid that is creamier than traditional water ice but lighter than hard-pack ice cream. Flavors like Graham Crunch, Rainbow Cookie, Jelly Ring, and Spumoni are often cited as local favorites.
• Dietary-Conscious Options: A significant menu section is dedicated to No Sugar Added, Fat Free Ices, including flavors like Cappuccino, Cherry, and Lemon, ensuring delicious options for those watching their sugar or fat intake.
• Family and Pet-Friendly Atmosphere: The atmosphere is noted as casual and family-friendly, making it a comfortable spot for all ages. In a nod to the local community, dogs are welcome both inside and outside the store.
• Specialty Frozen Drinks and Desserts: Beyond ices and ice cream, the menu features unique items like Ralphaccinos (coffee-flavored ice drinks), Icebergs (soft ice cream floating atop a smoothie), Twisters (soft ice cream layered with water ice), and Signature Sundaes like the popular Peanut Butter Crunch.

Contact Information

To plan your visit or inquire about their seasonal offerings and hours, you can use the following information:

Address: 12-48 Clintonville St, Whitestone, NY 11357, USA

Phone: (718) 746-1456

What is Worth Choosing

When you step up to the counter at Ralph's Famous Italian Ices of Whitestone, the sheer number of choices can be overwhelming. However, a few categories and popular flavors consistently rise to the top and are a must-try for any New Yorker:

For the Classic Ice Purist: The Water Ices are the foundation of Ralph’s fame. Start with the classic Italian flavors like Lemon, Cherry, or Watermelon, or venture into the intensely flavored Black Raspberry or Blue Hawaii. For those seeking the novelty of a flavor mix, the Rainbow is a perennial favorite, though be advised to sample first to ensure it matches your preference.

For the Creamy Delight Seeker: The Sherbert (Crème Ice) is the shop's true claim to fame. These flavors are celebrated for their smooth, soft texture and incredible depth of flavor. Highly recommended fan favorites include Graham Crunch, often mixed with a fruit ice for a "frozen pie" effect; Rainbow Cookie, which perfectly captures the flavor of the beloved tri-color cookie; and Spumoni, which offers a traditional Italian blend of flavors. The Jelly Ring and Cannoli flavors are also unique, decadent choices that tap into classic Italian-American dessert heritage.

For the Specialty Drink Lover: Don't overlook the signature concoctions. The Ralphaccino is a perfect pick-me-up for coffee lovers, and the Peanut Butter Blast Milkshake is a thick, rich treat for peanut butter enthusiasts. The Hot Fudge Crunch Sundae is also a popular choice for those looking for a fully loaded ice cream experience, complete with layers of fudge and crunch.

With its wide selection, deep roots in the New York frozen dessert scene, and welcoming atmosphere, Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices of Whitestone is more than a seasonal stop—it’s a cherished Queens tradition that continues to deliver a high-quality, delicious experience with every scoop and cup. Whether you're a first-timer or a lifelong fan, this Whitestone gem is the perfect place to grab a refreshing treat.

Ralphs Famous Italian Ices of Whitestone

12-48 Clintonville St, Whitestone, NY 11357, USA