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Name: JP Licks
Address: 1312 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA, 02138
Telephone: (617) 492-1001
Price range: Under $11
Rating: 3.97

JP Licks

1312 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA, 02138

(617) 492-1001
Store is closed

JP Licks Menu

This Month's Flavors

Pralines & Cream

Apple Crisp

Butter Almond

Kowlua Brownie

Chocolate Chocolate Chip

Fresh Banana

Chocolate Chip Low Fat Yogurt

New! Sugar Free Vanilla
Lactose - Free Sorbet Sherbet

Pineapple Sherbet

Triple Berry Sorbet

Lime Sorbet

Oatmeal Cookie Lactose Free

New! Green Apple Yogurt X
Regular Ice Cream Flavors

Vanilla

Chocolate Chip

Oreo Cake Batter

Maple Walnut

Chocolate

Brownie Brownie Batter

Coffee

Cherry Garciaparra

Oreo

Black Raspberry

Mint Oreo

Cookie Dough

Rum Raisin

Strawberry

Coconut Almond Chip

Cappuccino Crunch

Coffee Oreo

Pistachio

Sweet Cream

Mint Chip
Hard Frozen Yogurt Flavors

Coffee Chip

Peanut Butter

Oatmeal Cookie
Toppings-dry Toppings

Crushed Waffle Cones

Crushed Waffle Cones

Yogurt Chips

Snow Caps

Heath Bar

Crushed Oreo

Chocolate Chips

Granola

Coconut

Fruity Pebbles

Homemade Espresso Bark

Reeses Peanut Butter Cups

Almonds

M&ms

Cookie Dough
Toppings-wet Toppings

Homemade Whipped Cream

Homemade Hot Fudge

Blueberries

Raspberries

Non-fat Hot Fudge

Peanut Butter Sauce

Pineapple

Marshmallow Sauce

Caramel

Strawberries
Frappes Smoothies & Moolattas

Frappes

Xtra Thick Frappe

Espresso Frappe

Fruit Smoothie

Fruitatta

Lime Rickey

Raspberry Lime Rickey

Sorbet Freeze

Float

Ice Cream Soda

Egg Cream
Sundaes Splits & Other Treats

Build Your Own Sundae

Brownie Sundae

Banana Split

Featured Sundae

New! Chipwiches

Cake Slices

Cupcakes

Healthy Meal suggestions for JP Licks

This Month's Flavors

Pralines & Cream [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Apple Crisp [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Butter Almond [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Kowlua Brownie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chocolate Chocolate Chip [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fresh Banana [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chocolate Chip Low Fat Yogurt [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

New! Sugar Free Vanilla [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Lactose - Free Sorbet Sherbet

Pineapple Sherbet [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Triple Berry Sorbet [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lime Sorbet [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oatmeal Cookie Lactose Free [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

New! Green Apple Yogurt X [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Regular Ice Cream Flavors

Vanilla [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chocolate Chip [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oreo Cake Batter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Maple Walnut [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chocolate [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brownie Brownie Batter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coffee [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cherry Garciaparra [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oreo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Black Raspberry [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mint Oreo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cookie Dough [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Rum Raisin [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Strawberry [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coconut Almond Chip [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cappuccino Crunch [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coffee Oreo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pistachio [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sweet Cream [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Mint Chip [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Hard Frozen Yogurt Flavors

Coffee Chip [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peanut Butter [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Oatmeal Cookie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Toppings-dry Toppings

Crushed Waffle Cones [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crushed Waffle Cones [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Yogurt Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Snow Caps [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Heath Bar [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Crushed Oreo [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Chocolate Chips [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Granola [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Coconut [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fruity Pebbles [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Homemade Espresso Bark [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Reeses Peanut Butter Cups [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Almonds [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

M&ms [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cookie Dough [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Toppings-wet Toppings

Homemade Whipped Cream [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Homemade Hot Fudge [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Blueberries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Raspberries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Non-fat Hot Fudge [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Peanut Butter Sauce [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Pineapple [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Marshmallow Sauce [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Caramel [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Strawberries [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Frappes Smoothies & Moolattas

Frappes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Xtra Thick Frappe [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Espresso Frappe [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fruit Smoothie [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Fruitatta [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Lime Rickey [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Raspberry Lime Rickey [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Sorbet Freeze [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Float [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Ice Cream Soda [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Egg Cream [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]
Sundaes Splits & Other Treats

Build Your Own Sundae [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Brownie Sundae [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Banana Split [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Featured Sundae [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

New! Chipwiches [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cake Slices [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

Cupcakes [ Carbohydrates (ms): 0, Sodium (s): 0, Saturated Fat (ms) : 0, Calories: 0, Sugar (ms): 0 ]

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Write An Anonymous Review

B. B.

It's awesome. Hanging out loads in Harvard has steeled me against a certain level of borderline-sadistic non-service from the employees of stores and restaurants. But so far, the folks over at this JP Licks just warm the cockles of my heart. They're helpful, but not pushy. And just seem, well good-natured. Scooping ice cream and making coffee for hours on end can be very trying, but these people (really hoping I don't jinx this) wear it so well. It's amazing. To be honest, I'm not the biggest fan of ice cream. I'm a cake girl. I'd probably opt for most baked goods over anything frozen. But the ice cream here is great. I ADORE the cucumber flavor, which is regrettably still seasonal. It has a unique, surprisingly fresh and light taste for ice cream. And if what I really want is a baked good, they have a decent number of those, too. And coffee- hooray for coffee! My one minor complaint, which is probably a big bonus for most others, is that they are often too generous with portions. Sometimes asking for a kiddie size just means you want a kiddie size. So sometimes I'm a bit overwhelmed. But still, I love it.
(5)
Matt S.

I'm no Ice Cream maniac, so I'm quite sure there are 'better' Ice Cream establishments for the connoisseurs out there. For me, though, JP Licks - any one of it's multiple locations, but the Harvard Square one in particular - is a must visit when I'm jonesin' for a scoop. All of the flavors I've had taste fresh and are quite unique. The monthly flavors are outstanding because they vary wildly and are limited in their appearances - in some ways it'd be nice to see flavors of the month that I truly enjoyed become regular items on the menu, but the 'get 'em while they're around' aspect is fun in and of itself. It's a major source of positive marks that every flavor I've tried, even if it's not destined to be a favorite, is enjoyable. I've yet to try one I haven't liked, and at this point I've a few under my belt. JP Licks is all around solid. I can't give it five stars simply because, as stated, I'm not an Ice Cream lover by any stretch of the term. However, when I need some dairy goodness, I'll make a beeline for whichever JP Licks is within proximity of me. Suffice to say, I'll leave satisfied.
(4)
Cy K.

Its a nice Ice cream place, but I really don't understand what is so special about it. The ice cream is nice and rich, but nothing over what you'd get in a carton from your local grocer. Also, its often completely packed with college students which makes seating/service a pain.
(3)
Logan C.

I love JP licks! It closes every night at midnight and for the longest time my girlfriend and I would rush over for a "midnight snack" at 11:55pm! In fact, I am eating some right now! My favorite flavors are the oreo cake batter and coconut almond chip ice cream. They usually have awesome monthly flavors too and you get to mix three flavors in a large. The servers are always extremely friendly to us. They are very strict about closing at midnight, but as long as you get there before they always feed you. And one time we needed an extra scoop because we we feeding lots of people, and the manager just gave it to us for free. J.P. Licks is always a fun time and DELICIOUS ice cream!
(5)
Melissa M.

I ate a pretty large slice of JP Licks unbelievably delicious oreo ice cream cake at a staff meeting. I'm glad it was Betsy's birthday because we got a nice treat. This was after I ate my requisite second lunch of the day which consisted of cheese, crackers, and fruit. My ICE CREAM GOD, this cake was the best ice cream cake I've ever eaten. I am excited that JP Licks made it's way to Cambridge to compete with Herrells, Ben and Jerry's, etc. I totally recommend that you try this cake. The cake alone gets five stars!
(5)
Rich F.

The ice cream is great. There are places to sit. There is no wi-fi like the one in JP. At least there are not a bunch of little kids running around.
(3)
Victoria H.

If you want to have a college feel to start or finish you day in Harvard an have a delicious frozen treat! Then this place is defiantly the spot! They have ice cream, and their famous ice cream cake! ( like oreao cookie & cream cake ) this place also serve yummy hot chocolate and lovely bake cookies and cupcakes! This place is fabulous and a nice place to hang out with friends! this place is as cool as Ice cream...really it is!
(5)
A M.

The most amazing oatmeal cookie yogurt I have ever had- I live on the west coast but travel to Boston frequently for work and J.P. Licks is always on my list of places to go!
(5)
Colleen Y.

I am a huge frozen treats person, but for some reason I have never gotten ice cream at JP licks. Probably because I think its overpriced and not really a big fan of ice cream per se, more of a froyo kind of girl. So, I can't speak to the quality of JP Lick's ice cream. But I can tell you that they serve a good cup of coffee. My morning hasn't properly begun until I have that first ice coffee (I know, even in winter). I can't put them above my all time Cambridge fav Carberry's but for now it is my go to spot. Obviously the green turf on the walls is a bit weird, as are all the cow paintings. But it reminds me of the pastures of New Mexico and brightens my morning...especially when I can trick myself into feeling a little less blue in these winter months.
(3)
Ryan L.

This place is awesome! There is a good amount of seating and it's a nice little hotspot across the street from Harvard. The employees are extremely lively and know how to make the best of the moderate space within the shop. The price is not too steep as you are given a huge amount of ice cream. I had the oreo cake batter which was pretty freakin' good. Definitely coming here again if I plan on coming back to Boston.
(5)
Alexandra M.

HUGE LINE. Not sure what was going on, because after a certain point the line started to move really fast and when I got to order it was fast and when I got to pay it was fast....I wish people would have let me go around them but there was no room! Put some signs up or tell people who are waiting for their ice cream to let others pass! great flavors and they give you a lot more than what they say so maybe get a size smaller.
(3)
XB S.

This little place was packed! Service was great. I accidentally dropped my cone on my way to the cash register. They were nice enough to to give me a new one. Awesome flavors!
(4)
Lauren L.

This may be the best ice cream I've ever had! I'm not normally a big ice cream person - most brands, from ben and jerry's to fancy gelato don't really do it for me. This place needs 5+ stars for how good the ice cream is. I've also had trouble with dairy as I've gotten older, but this place makes dairy free/lactose free ice cream that is totally indistinguishable from the original. I had coconut chocolate dairy free and it rocked my world :) I took away a single star, though, because they run out of the popular flavors really quickly (including the dairy free) so half the times I go here I can't get what I wanted. They are really popular and busy, so hopefully in the future they make more/keep more in stock for the big lines during the summer. Don't worry though - the lines go quick so you're usually out in 10 minutes or so. Definitely a place I recommend!
(4)
Naureen R.

Oh. My. God. The Peanut Butter Cookies n Cream Get it now and bring me some. I know my ice cream and while the wait is long and it is kind of pricey...it is absolutely deeeelish and the small size will be more than enough for an incredibly fulfilling dessert.
(5)
Adam S.

After driving around MIT's part of Cambridge for Toscanini's, we couldn't find any non-metered parking, so we decided to skip at and go to JP Lick's. Parking was much easier as we found a gated lot about 5 minutes away. When we walked in, the place was packed. Probably 20 people in line in the middle of the day in the summer. I got a scoop of some peanut butter cup ice cream (can't remember the exact name). We sat down inside to eat as we had been walking all day. The ice cream really hit the spot. Super creamy and delicious. Really good ice cream. Not exceptionally amazing, but really really good. This could partly be my fault since I didn't order anything crazy. The door kept squeaking every time someone opened it which was a little annoying, though. The gentleman serving me was really pleasant and efficient. I'd have no problem coming back if I'm in the area.
(4)
Deb M.

What a great find in Harvard Square. We were on a walking tour and the guide pointed this place out as being a small business owned shop, which is always nice to support. The lady, who I'm assuming was the owner was very friendly and gave a few samples as we made our decisions. I went with maple butter walnut and it was just the perfect amount of sweetness. I had dark chocolate chips added and that was the perfect combination! There were several add in options. They also have plenty of beverage choices. Bathrooms, indoor and outdoor tables and air conditioning in case you need to get away from the heat, as we did. Enjoy the wonderful flavor creations in a cone or cup!
(4)
Richard G.

Great ice cream at a reasonable price. The peanut butter cookies and cream along with the rockyer road were awesome. Best ice cream that I've had in the Boston area.
(4)
Diana N.

My cousin told me we definitely had to stop by JP Licks because one of her friends highly recommended it. And I must say, her friend was absolutely right and I thank her for that (thank you whoever you are!!!). Her friend recommended the COCONUT ALMOND CHIP, which my cousin tasted and shared with me on a tasting spoon. For me, it was love-at-first-lick. I knew right at that moment that there would be no other ice-cream flavor that would satisfy my very needs at that moment, so I didn't bother tasting any other. Being a huge coconut fan, the COCONUT ALMOND CHIP, had my two other loves, almonds and chocolate chip bits. It was a like a four-way affair when it came to all the different flavors that bonded so well together that those different ingredients were a definite match made in heaven. I decided to order the one scoop in a WAFFLE CONE, but upon visually seeing the one scoop, decided it was not visually appealing enough for me and my soon-to-be flavor relationship, so I changed it up to two scoops and I was not disappointed at all. I licked those scoops with grace and temptation from the beginning, all the way to the end. Oh how I wish there was a JP Licks in Los Angeles! Come on over! You guys will do so well over here because it is always sunny and hot in good old Southern California!
(5)
Erin M.

One thing I try in every city is ice cream. From Morocco to Massachussetts, I've delighted in sampling ice cream this summer. JP Licks is the clear winner this summer. I was glad we waited until the last day of the week we were staying in Cambridge to stop by, or I would have gone there every day! Their Peanut Butter Oreo ice cream was rich, creamy and packed with flavor. Other reasons to love JP Licks are the variety of ice cream choices, the variety of ways to enjoy your ice cream (waffle cones, cups of all sizes, etc), the cute shop atmosphere and the speedy and sweet service. We will be back!
(5)
Jane L.

I am not a ice cream lover but JP Licks is one of my few favorite ice cream places in Boston area. I was visiting Harvard as a tourist. I saw a long line from this ice cream place. Instantly, I knew that I needed to try their ice cream. Again, ice cream is not my thing so usually I don't really enjoy eating it. BUT, this place is good. Also you can try different flavors before you order, which reduces the risk substantially of ordering bad flavors. It seems that there are multiple locations of JP Licks (and I learns that JP means Jamaica Plain). I look forward to going back soon.
(4)
Klim K.

Delicious and intricate flavors with outdoor seating right outside of Harvard... Not too shabby.
(4)
Margarette N.

JP Licks ("J - Plicks" as it is endearingly referred to at times) is a classic Bostonian ice creamery. Personally, between Coldstone, Ben & Jerrys, and here, its sort of all the same. Lots of flavors, ice cream that hits the spot, but dear god don't tell me how many calories are in it. I'll never turn it down though. This is more of a "4 stars because I love ice cream" rather than "4 stars because I love JP Licks"
(4)
Laura D.

I stopped by after free cone day at Ben & Jerry's yesterday because who can eat only a small scoop of ice cream?? I used to complain about a lack of chocolate-based froyo options but someone told me that the Cookies & Cream flavor at JP Licks is actually chocolate based, so I considered getting that when I saw "Chocolate Chocolate Chip" -- had never seen it before (possibly a limited time flavor?) and it sounded perfect! I went with a small for $4.49--and I noticed immediately that there was freezer burn on some of it. Very unappealing... After trying it I immediately regretted not getting kiddie size. The froyo was way too rich. It tasted almost like hot fudge, which got sickening quickly. The chocolate chips were pleasantly uniformly bar shaped, but the flavor was similarly too rich to really be enjoyable. I've unfortunately yet to find a flavor I've liked at JP Licks, and for the price I really don't think it's worth it...
(2)
Monica L.

good location, close to train station and Haward university. The strawberry ice-cream is pretty good, and the serve recommend the cookie and cream (not bad). The cashier is friendly by the way.
(4)
Sara S.

I've had a disappointing experience 3 out of the 4 times I have been to this particular jp licks. All have been based on poor customer service. The first time I came here I ordered a medium with three flavors: peanut butter chip, chocolate chip cookie and peanut butter cookies and cream. The employee put a small amount of peanut butter chip in the bottom and chocolate chip cookie hard yogurt on top. After I paid I asked her again if the peanut butter cookies and cream flavor was there. It felt hollow and I could not see it. She assured me she remembered it. After I drove off and finished the top layer I was so upset to see she had not left me peanut butter cookies and cream. She had left the spot for it empty. I felt so gipped. The next disappointing experience was on my birthday. The employee who helped me was a manly looking female. She was irritated that I wanted to sample two flavors and she really had a bad attitude. I was clear that she hated working there. I ordered a large and it honestly looked like a small. It was only two scoops. What a way to disappoint a person on their birthday! Tonight was the final straw. I checked the soft yogurt calendar on their website and I was extremely happy to see my favorite flavor, soft chocolate chip cookie yogurt was back today. I walked in and they did not have it. I asked the employee about it and she said they never have it. They only have it in hard yogurt form. I told her their website had it posted as a flavor of the week and she was clueless. I left super disappointed and empty handed. It's a shame the customer service is so poor here because I live very close and I love ice cream and frozen yogurt. I will go out of my way to eat at other locations that hopefully have better customer relations. I'm giving 3 stars instead of two because their product does taste good.
(3)
Suji K.

Good ice cream. Cute shop. I appreciate the extensive flavors and drink menu. I took Yelpers' reccommendation on the Cookies n Cake Batter flavor since I love both Cookies n cream and cake batter ice cream flavors. I was a little dissappointed. The "cake batter" flavor component was barely present, and when I did catch it, the flavor reminded me of instant vanilla pudding mix. Like, you know, the powdered stuff? The ice cream itself is good, no complaints. I just kinda hoped for more. But I bump this up to 4 stars for the interior and what they've got goin on on the menu. The place was packed too, which indicates something. Also. The sell a tiny cup size that I very much appreciated. Its not often ice cream shops sell a size in the middle of a taste and a small [that ends up being more like a medium].
(4)
Ashley C.

LOVED THIS PLACE! Food: There were so many unique flavors on there menu... I couldn't decide on what to get! I ended up ordering a maple butter walnut in a white chocolate covered cone and it was SOOO GOOOD!! Their one scoop was a pretty big serving as well. Service: The worker that were very nice and patient! I sampled four flavors before I decided on what I wanted and they didn't give an attitude or anything. Ambiance: It's a cute little spot. It's a nice stroll around the area if you want to walk while eating :) Definitely coming here again! Whether it's snowing or sunny out, a scoop from JP Licks will always be good.
(5)
Kevin J.

Icecream: 4/5 Stars Service: 5/5 Stars JP Licks has some great icecream and an amazing location. During summertime it's great to get a cup and then either walk to the yard or just sit in the patio. Most recently, I came to buy an icecream cake for a friend's birthday and they have a great selection of ice cream cakes (Tiramisu!) at very reasonable prices and in many different sizes. Everyone really enjoyed it, and it was definitely quite fresh - they also helped to put signage on top.
(4)
Christina V.

Ice cream = 4.5 stars Service = 2 stars Stopped in late last night craving something sweet. There were probably half a dozen people in front of us and 1 person working! The line moved unreasonably slow. After he handed us our ice cream he asked if we were in a rush. He was going to scoop the next person's before cashing us out! I said we were - had to get outta there at that point. They did have a great selection of flavors. I got a cup of half Banana Cookies and Cream & half Salty Caramel. Both were excellent. It's a little pricey but most ice cream places are these days. May be back if I'm in Harvard but there are so many other options in the area.
(3)
Isabella C.

Ice cream is one of those things where it's generally good but it's hard to find a place that's absolutely outstanding. JP Licks is one of those good places. I'd give it 3 stars for the ice cream itself -- especially considering it's on the pricier end -- but 4 stars because of the atmosphere. The staff are great about letting you enjoy your ice cream slowly and the store is a lovely place to sit and catch up with friends. There are some good flavors that circulate through and I'd recommend asking for a sample before you commit to one flavor!
(4)
Emily W.

Obviously I came here after reading about it on Buzzfeed as one of the Top Ice Cream places I must visit. Lol, don't trust buzzfeed on this seriously. Don't. The ice cream isn't that wonderful but their smoothies are addicting. The first time I came here I got their coffee ice cream. It was very creamy and tasted like someone spend a lot of time making it with their hands. Aka I can taste the homemade-ness of the ice cream. The second time I came I avoided the ice cream and went for a mango yogurt smoothie. Oh my goodness I couldn't stop drinking it. I saw them making it and it's basically fresh mangos with frozen yogurt. One of the best smoothies I've had. Basically, doesn't live up to the hype considering it made it to Buzzfeed. I see several people mixing their ice cream with their coffees so maybe I'll try that next time.
(3)
Christina M.

From California, this is the best ice cream I've ever had!!!! No joke. The ice cream is so soft and very rich in flavor. It was perfect!
(5)
Victoria O.

AMAZING! They have a blackboard with tons of flavors; seasonal flavors, specialty flavors and the good old original flavors too. Even if your full from lunch or dinner, they have a kiddie cup, with just enough for a quick taste. It is well worth the stop. Be prepared for a bit of a line though. Highly recommend the Coconut Almond Chip ice cream and Cookies and Cream soft serve!! Will definitely make sure to stop by again the next time we are in town.
(5)
Melissa T.

This is probably the creamiest ice cream I've ever tasted!! I'm from New York, so we don't have JP Licks, but I wish we did! I tried the cookies & cake batter flavor. It was delicious. They also have flavors with alcohol in it, very interesting. Definitely need to stop here if you're visiting Boston.
(5)
Joyce L.

I walked right past all the froyo, yogurtland, pinkberry, *insert name of every frozen yogurt place you've ever seen*, in harvard square and walked into JP licks because I was craving all the creaminess and calories of REAL ICE CREAM. Oh, is it 9 degrees out? Perfect weather for ice cream! The girl who was taking our order was so blunt, I loved her. There were many unique flavors on the menu that I didn't know what to choose. I asked her how the grapefruit sorbet was and she replied with, "to be honest, I don't like it that much. Do you want to order that?"; I decided to go with pistachio instead. There were a chock full of pistachios in it, even in my tiny kiddie size cup and I found it so interesting that it was white & not the usual light green color. Minus one star because my kiddie's cup was the size of a sample size cup, but came out to be almost $4... that's equivalent to a bucket full of ice cream at stop&shop. So, why the heck did you buy the kiddie size when you're 24 years old, Joyce? Because I think small sized things taste better, okay?? Let's end with this: I am so thankful that there is a place in Harvard Square that is not afraid to serve LEGIT ICE CREAM during this winter spell. Thank you, JP Licks, for staying open and for making my tummy happy. #junoaintgotnothinonus
(4)
Denise A.

I scream for ice cream. I'm always satisfied when I eat here. They keep the store warm enough in the winter for you to comfortably enjoy your ice cream. So warm, in fact, that sometimes I'll opt for something more summery like a sorbet. They've got rotating seasonal flavors including some boozy ones (aw yeah). One of my favorites is maple walnut. So bright and fresh! But I've had everything. Their mint chip is refreshing as well. Recently I had their seasonal cherry-vanilla chip: tastes like the maraschino cherry liquid and vanilla blends I used to make as a child (and...ok yeah, last night too). I'm not the world's biggest coffee fan but the tastes I've had of capuccino crunch or their coffee ice cream have been tasty. And I've been informed by those who purchased these coffe-flavored 'creams that they would like their ice cream back now so they can eat it, thankyouverymuch.
(4)
Musicsphere O.

Very good. Creamy and flavor is there. Cookie dough, cookies in cake batter and maple buttah walnut. Friendly customer service.
(5)
Andrew Q.

A lactose-intolerant person reviewing ice cream? I'm sure this'll go well. Not a fan of their lactose-free offering, for some odd reason. I've never been a fan of the sickly sweet taste of diet soda, and JP Licks' lactose-free Madagascar Vanilla was similar. Too much weird sweetness. Also, I wish JP Licks had more seating, but that's probably a silly request for an ice cream store.
(3)
Bhavin P.

Really good ice cream near Harvard old campus. Good flavors, fast service and nice outdoor seating.
(4)
Margaret V.

Even with the incredible variety of flavors, I was only impressed by one - the Peanut Butter Oreo. I topped it off with some mini peanut butter cups. We tried many of their flavors, but none stood out and some tasted slightly artificial. I would only go here for the Peanut Butter Oreo ice cream, it was good on a hot day, but other than that I'm not coming back.
(3)
Lucius M.

I'm not prone to hyperbole, but the banana ice cream may have saved my life on a 90Â° degree day.
(5)
Connie L.

I usually don't get pistachio ice cream... but I sampled it and liked it so I went for it! It had lots and lots and lots of pistachio.. so if you're into pistachio, then go for it!
(4)
Anurag P.

Fun place, great flavors. Seasonal flavors for the Fall were delicious. Will come back again.
(4)
Lisa D.

I'm visiting Boston for the summer and tried JP Licks for the first time today. Was very impressed! Their "butter almond" was one of the flavor of the months (June) and exactly what I've been looking for - creamy, buttery, with almond chunks. I'll be coming back for sure to try more flavors. A bit pricey as others have mentioned but otherwise solid ice cream.
(4)
Lola G.

Delicious assortment of ice creams, hard and soft frozen yogurts, and sorbets. This place also opens at 8am (at least on Sun). Awesome staff that don't rush you and are friendly.
(5)
Mike C.

The ice cream here is pretty good. The biggest strength though is the large varieties of flavors and different types of things you can get. The best flavor I've tried is the excellent Peanut Butter Oreo, a great combo that you don't see nearly often enough. You can also get dairy free flavors if you are unlucky enough to need that, or frozen yogurt for a lighter choice. The ice cream here isn't particularly memorable. It has a decent texture, and like all ice cream, tastes good, but it's nothing I would really feel the need to have again. The biggest weakness here is the always-present huge line, filled with families and little children and said families allowing their children to sample every single flavor. This just about makes it not worth it for a scoop of ice cream here. I would rather go to Toscanini's for superior ice cream in the future.
(3)
Marilyn C.

JP Licks is some good ice cream. I actually usually get the hard yogurt - peanut butter chocolate or mint chip. The last time I was there I tried one of the seasonal flavors - white coffee - it was pretty delicious. This location tends to be pretty busy, especially when the weather is nice. There are a few outdoor tables. The sizes are pretty generous. Definitely worth a stop in.
(4)
Christine L.

Was in the Boston area for a wedding and had to stop by Le's for some perfect hangover food. On the way there, the BF and I saw JP Licks and I knew we had to go there since I had heard raving reviews of this place. We only had one hour parking, so we slurped down our pho noodles, took a brisk stroll around Harvard Square, and rushed to JP Licks to make it before our meter ran out. It was worth the stress. Although I was overwhelmed by the amount of flavors, the employees were patient and quick to serve. I opted for the classic cookies and cream and strawberry. First bite....and I was in ice cream heaven. I think the cookies and cream is probably one of the best I've had - and I've had my fair share of ice cream. Ran back to the meter and had 3 minutes to spare! Perfect weather, perfect ice cream, and no parking ticket equaled a great experience.
(5)
Dominique L.

JP Licks is a Harvard dessert staple Relatively accommodating and a bit "chain"-y/touristy, JP Licks is a solid choice if one is craving hard or soft serve ice cream. The staff is always willing to let you try their regularly rotating flavors. The ice cream flavors are usually delicious and the large number of flavors they offer ensures that you can leave with your specific craving satisfied. Their Nutrasweet soft serve leaves a bit to be desired in terms of flavor - an understandable comprise considering the reduced sugar content - but leaves a bad taste in one's mouth. For an ice cream chain, their coffee (hot or iced) is surprisingly delicious and flavorful. Seating is limited and usually occupied during peak times, but if you happen to snag the window seats facing Mass Ave you can enjoy a lovely round of people watching with your dessert. The only thing restrictive about JP Licks is their pricing, which is out of control given that their ice cream is just plain ice cream. For the price, the value of the ice cream should really be better, or prices should be lowered. That being said, the prices are probably where they are because of the tourists in Harvard Square who frequent it.
(4)
Elsa S.

JP Licks is delicious!!! Worth the money and the calories :-) and very generous portions. ***Recommendations*** *Peanut butter cookie* Soooo good! Peanut butter ice cream with soft and flavorful chocolate cookie bits...delicious!!! *Brownie batter*... Equally as tasty!! Great flavor and chunks of brownie.
(5)
Anchisa P.

Pretty good ice cream. Particularly like their ice cream cake.
(4)
Rachel M.

They have delicious pastries and very friendly staff! Decent prices. I would have ordered yogurt but it's pouring rain outside and so we got a warm brownie instead :)
(5)
Minh C.

I had the oatmeal hard yogurt. It was good! It's not a flavor I would normally get, as I tend to lean towards things that sound less healthy (cough cough salty caramel cough), but my friend recommended it. I noticed a couple of their cakes on displayed, and hope to get a chance to try them out one of these days :D
(4)
Dan C.

This JP Licks is wedged into a tiny storefront in Harvard Square. I went here on a warm summer evening and it was jamming inside. The line was big, but moved quickly. I had the mint cookies and cream ice cream in a cup. It was very good. I chose not to splurge on a sundae this time, but they pretty good hot fudge and whipped cream if you are looking to go all out. I prefer Cold Stone to JP Licks, but JP is very good and a solid go-to spot for ice cream in Harvard Square.
(3)
Max M.

Best ice cream in the square with an assortment of tasty flavors you won't find anywhere else. They also have warm drinks you can get to take care of any brain freeze. The place can be packed even during Boston's formidable winters, a testament to JP licks top notch ice cream and friendly service.
(5)
Natalie D.

I got the cookies and cake batter twice at this location and each time it was an ice cream dream come true. So sweet and creamy! The line is usually long but it moves fast. Awesome ice cream! Service could be a tad happier -I mean they are selling ice cream after all.
(5)
Mark T.

I would visit this place much more often, but what keeps me from returning regularly are the extremely high prices here. If they did not have outstanding ice cream I would be here much more. A coffee lover, I get the Cappuccino Crunch ice cream every time. It has a great balance of sweetness, crunch, coffee flavor, and creaminess. I also have had the opportunity to try the Rum Raisin. Also very good, just not my cup of tea (or rather ice cream) I cannot speak for toppings or coffees, as I have not had them, yet. It is the prices that cost this place a star. While I have often just eaten lunch, and could not fit a small size into me, if you have space inside you, and are not a small child, at least get the small. It contains at least double the kiddie size for nowhere near double the price. For perspective: The kiddie size contains a little more than a large shot glass.
(4)
Michelle A.

Get your JP Licked in the Square. Worth the price. Worth the line. Worth the atmosphere. WORTH IT!
(4)
Paris G.

Ice cream is the bomb!! Nice employees, creating a lively and comfortable vibe. Always crowded because of the popularity, that is much deserved. Chocolate ice cream was great, I'm sure the other flavor a are just as delicious.
(5)
Ling H.

10PM 1/8/14. Ordered a fudge brownie. Service was very poor. Server handed me my dessert and I asked her how much it was. She said "I don't know" in a monotonous voice as if she didn't want to be there. I walked to the register and she told me the amount in the same tone. After I paid, I think she mumbled "Thank you have a good night". Couldn't really make out what she said. I wanted to give her a tip at first cuz she was the only one working, but not with that bad attitude and service :T Kind of ruined my experience here at JP Licks. I wouldn't come back.
(1)
Roy L.

It looks like ice cream, smells like ice cream, feels like ice cream, and looks like ice cream; MUST BE ICE CREAM. It's advertised as ice cream, but I swear, the consistency was more like gelato. It was so creamy and perfectly balance of sweet. And it also must be cause we're in 'Murica, but the portions were ginormous, fit for 6' 5" sumo wrestlers or someone that's itching for diabetes. We got a medium, cause ya'know I'm not super fat, and they put a half a pint of ice cream into a cup. CRAZY! The medium ran me about $5.50, which is pricey, but I was expecting Ben & Jerry's quality ice cream. PROTIP: There's a bathroom in the back if you're wandering around Harvard Square. Pros: Delicious ice cream, HUGE portions Cons: Pricey
(5)
Lauren B.

With other better ice cream shops around (Toscanini's) and the fact that this place is over-priced, it gets a meh. Yea, ice cream in general is tasty, but this place isn't doing anything particularly special or creative, and they're charging you nearly $5 a scoop (and almost $7 for a milkshake which is kinda ridiculous). I had heard that this place was in the running for best ice cream in Boston, but I whole-heartedly disagree. Toscanini's is cheaper ($6 for a full hand-packed pint) and has WAY more interesting and adventurous flavors/textures/etc.
(3)
Sandy P.

I love, love, love this place! I'm not from the area so had no idea what they had to offer vegans. Went in with my cousin who wanted hot chocolate, and we ended up getting ice cream lol. Walked in and it was Christmas morning... vegan ice cream?!?! You know that made my night!
(5)
Elyssa J.

OMG this ice cream is heaven. A bunch of us stopped in late at night. As someone who is pretty lactose intolerant -I was happy to see some dairy free options. There are fruity flavors, a vanillia and a cookies&creme/hemp combo. The barista assured me that the c&C/hemp combo was her favorite so after a sample, I ordered some with gummy bears. It was super rich and creamy without being overbearing and heavy. I gave all of my curious teammates a taste and they all agreed that this flavor was very good. For those that can handle a bit of lactose, there are so many amazing flavors. I recommend giving yourself a minute to look over their expansive menu before ordering. This spot is a must for ice cream lovers.
(5)
Ilyana E.

Mint chocolatechip ice cream delicious!!! The line was long but the waiting was not, they drop our banana split while making it so they start all over again but this second time on a rush so our banana was messy. Nice cozy place, to cozy for my taste; Imight go back and try more flavors.
(3)
Jessica C.

Peanut butter oreo & maple walnut were to DIE FOR! Great location to kick up your feet at the Harvard Yard to people watch- and enjoy your ice cream of course.
(4)
E L.

The most amazing ice cream ever. I've been there a few times and tried a few different flavors and every single one is so good every time. The cookies in cake batter is my favorite. The name is perfect since its almost literally chunks of cookies in cake batter (flavored ice cream). The peanut butter ice cream is great too. And the fudge brownie. I recommend JP licks over any other ice cream place in Harvard square!
(5)
Nikolai K.

I've been to JP Licks quite a few times. All their locations are pretty much the same, so this review is for all of them. The ice cream is very good, not a huge variety of toppings but they have all the common tasty ones so you won't be disappointed. The hot chocolate is delicious too. I give JP Licks 4 stars rather than 5 not due to any faults, but because the ice cream does not stand out in any way. In my opinion, it doesn't differ too much in quality or variety from store-bought Ben and Jerry's. There are sometimes very long lines when it's sunny out, which is probably when you'd want to get ice cream in the first place. Definitely not a fault of the establishment though.
(4)
Hala S.

I had cappuccino here that was terrible and overpriced. If I want to rate the place based on my drink, I would've given it one star.. The two stars is due to my funny/weird experience.. So my first name is Hala, which could be found funny and might also invoke some stupid songs (thank you Gwen Stefani for that).. After getting my drink and walking away this afternoon at this cafe, I hear the oldest guy in the store yelling to his two young employees "that lady's name was Hala" and they started laughing and hollering at each other! Mind you, I am not a stuck up... I wouldn't mind making fun of myself... I wish they laughed with me instead of at me or at least waited for me to leave before making the comment. It was awwwwwwwkward! Anyways, their sense humor got them an extra star but I won't be returning here for sure! Holleeeeeeeer!
(2)
Grace B.

Maple walnut hemp ice cream in a waffle cone. Need I say more? It was freaking amazing, I do love my dairy but I loved this even more. Yes it's almost the price of a meal, but it's maple walnut hemp ice cream. Don't make me repeat myself.
(5)
Chenna V.

Looks like it's not just JP licks but every ice cream store I tried has some cherry flavour in pistachio icecream. And google tells me, yes, it's actually almond extract that makes it taste like cherry. Anyways, their seasonal stuff and chocolate ice cream are worth it.
(4)
Praveen K.

The coffee/ice cream was good but had an extremely rude barista called Casey ..dampened the whole experience ..and hence the 2 stars..
(2)
Diane G.

Teeny tiny establishment with a small seating area inside and out. The line was out the door when we arrived. Huge menu of wonderful flavors, that makes you wish you could sample all of them. I changed my mind I don't know how many times while in line. Gah! I did know that I wasn't going to get vanilla. I settled on two kid cups, one with sangria sorbet and cappuccino crunch. Both flavors were delish. They offer different flavors each month, now I wish I had tried another August flavor besides the sangria. See I'm never happy. lol I'm hitting this place again, next time I'm in Cambridge. :-)
(4)
Ana S.

Sometimes you can find a place for good food that's a real steal, a place where you can get a dollar for fifty cents. Other times, you get what you paid for. JP Licks falls under the latter category -- and I mean that in the best way possible. For four dollars and change, you'll get a modest single scoop of ice cream...but damn if it isn't good ice cream. I think coffee ice cream is a good way to assess the quality of an ice cream joint. It's somewhat difficult to get coffee ice cream right. A lot of the time it comes out tasting like vanilla with a hint of coffee. I can safely say that JP Licks has some great coffee ice cream, including several variants including cappucino crunch and coffee cookies 'n' cream. Pro tip: keep the little spoons they give you for samples and each your purchased ice cream with it. It'll last longer...
(4)
Wendy L.

Hot summer days + cold JP Lick's ice cream = perfection. The line looks intimidatingly long but moves quickly - 8 people in front of us, and we only waited 5-7 minutes. Lots of great flavors from chocolate brownie to classic strawberry (my favorite). Portions are large - I got a small and expected a hefty scoop. Instead, I got one large scoop and two small scoops.
(4)
Tunisia M.

I once read somewhere that New Englanders eat a lot of ice cream and year round too. Now, thanks to places like JP Licks, I can see why that is. This review is for both the Harvard and Beacon Hill location. I honestly don't think it's possible to try whatever flavor is offered here- that's how good it is. It can get really busy at times but overall best small chain ice cream ever!
(4)
Fancypants X.

I don't always eat chocolate ice cream, but when I do, I eat a single scoop of JP Lick's chocolate brownie batter which is basically chocolate on top of chocolate with a side of chocolate. The sticky, chewy pieces of brownie batter makes my eyes roll back into my head, srsly. When I want to be extra decadent (aka fat), I order mini peanut butter cups as a topping...& then feel guilty & run a million (aka three) miles the next day. Side note: I've tried Oreo cookie batter & black raspberry, but those are 3-star flavors. Get the chocolate brownie batter & sign up for their cool frequent buyer's card cuz you'll probably be stalking this MA chain after one bite! (Luckily, they're ALL over cambridge!)
(4)
Heidi L.

JP Licks, a solid until-midnight standby. Especially delicious with the buy-one-get-one coupons, but still delicious without. My favorite place in town is still Tosci's, but when I crave the kind of ice cream I grew up on, I go to JP Licks. It tastes like something that /might/ come out of the carton (which is to say it doesn't have that sticky-smooth texture of fancy ice cream, or too-ridiculous flavors), but much better. The flavors there are not overpowering, the stuff-to-ice-cream ratio is just right (btw, the carrot cake ice cream is much better than the Christina's version - although it does have raisins), and the staff is friendly. I almost always order off the flavors of the month - and yes, I'm writing this review because I'm particularly excited about the presence of the caramel apple and pumpkin custard options. The caramel apple tastes like creamy cider, with a streak of not-too-sweet caramel. The pumpkin custard is just straight up good. Note that they'll have a pumpkin cheesecake flavor out soon, and that's good too...and it tastes /different/ from pumpkin custard. Woo! When nothing on the monthly flavors board looks great (cough the spring months), I stick to mint oreo or the coconut almond chip - the latter is excellent. Note that the coffee tastes burned here, and that same coffee is used for the ice cream, so while I love coffee ice cream I usually stay away from its iterations at JP Licks.
(4)
Sean C.

No Security Cameras. My wife's purse was robbed. Like a David Mamet play, a baseball-cap man came in, repeatedly wailing, "Anybody seen my wallet?" Wife and I looked to our side, then a second man must have dashed past and grabbed her purse off the back of the chair. We didn't realize until we finished eating our cup. Oh, I wanted to tell you about the Maple Buttah Walnut, wit' extta walnuts and hot fudge. Like it was churned the night b'fore. So good. But this happened. Now, the employees were unconcerned, disinterested, un-wowed when I announced, "Hey! My wife's purse was stolen!" Did you check under your seat, the cashier said in a disaffected monotone voice. Basically, the employees here are flat-lined unemotional drones. Not helpful. A policeman showed up. Employees not helpful to the man in blue, either. I'm going to guess the staff never told the incident to the owner or manager. It's that kind of place. Here's a hypothesis: These employees aren't whiz-kid Harvard students working their way through school. So if you walk in with your wallet tucked in your tight jeans, and stay five feet away from others at all times, you're going to be able to pay attention to the fact you found good ice cream. This is surely not an everyday thing what happened to us. But yeah, the police case is still open. With the contents removed, they found my wife's purse dropped in the dumpster an hour later (Trust me, I'm thankful for that. At least I don't have to go out and buy my wife a new purse). The police had found it an hour after reporting it, as if it had happened before. It's not just JP Licks, its all of Harvard Square businesses. But places sealed with security cameras and attentive employees would help. Oh, and to finish the story. Yes, I wiped the purse off with some Lysol wipes. Of course. I did that before I ever got around to blotting the chocolate fudge off my T-shirt. #outofpocket
(2)
Allison C.

A Harvard Square Staple, JP Licks offers both yummy ice cream (both dairy and non-dairy) as well as frozen yogurt. There are usually a few Oreo flavors available, and I do recommend peanut butter Oreo: so fatty, creamy, and tasty. And oh! Kids scoop size is a generous serving. There is always a line here, and given the narrow space of the shoppe, it can be a bit of a tight fit with many people standing and waiting. Service is pretty quick at the counter, but transactions can be slow, depending on whether there is enough staff for one person to stay put at the register (when I've gone recently, employees had to both scoop the ice cream AND work the register - which creates a bit of a lag). Definitely makes for a great study/work break, but JP Licks still doesn't top my book for ice cream in the greater Boston area (Toscanini's at #1!).
(4)
Andrew M.

I don't drink coffee or alcohol. In my opinion, both work better as flavors than as stand-alones, which is why I appreciate JP Licks' penchant for creating alcohol/coffee flavored special flavors. This month's was Jameson's Irish Coffee, which I thought was particularly good. Go before March ends!
(5)
Rachel A.

Dairy free ice cream. Highly recommend and I'm not even lactose! My friends find this laughable and think I'm a nut for ordering this but doesn't pineapple coconut sound really refreshing? They did not have it as regular ice cream so I gave the dairy free a shot. Seriously, one wouldn't even know this flavor was dairy free unless they were told. The pineapple coconut was creamy and thick. It had huge chunks of yellow pineapple cubes in it. The coconut flavor was pretty faint but the combination worked well. I wasn't thirsty after eating this ice cream. In fact, I just wanted more. I'd even try the chocolate coconut flavor. Dairy free all the way! My friends got the Leprechaun Brew and sorbet. The Leprechaun Brew was unnaturally green and supposedly had beer in it but the flavor wasn't too prominent. There was a good report on the sorbet but really, I just had the dairy free ice cream on my mind. Seriously good stuff and looking back at the pic, for one scoop on a cone, I think I got a deal. I really wanted to purchase one of the t-shirts on display whether it was the hot pink or black one. The worker said they were out of my size. Bummer because I wanted to buy one over a decade ago and was really excited to see that the t-shirt memorabilia had been resurrected. JP Licks is a Boston institution kind of like Emack & Bolio. It's not a trip to Beantown without a taste. And now Cambridge... Across the street from Harvard... It's clear. Smart people like ice cream.
(5)
Anita T.

Tried the fresh mint flavor of the month ice cream -- such a welcome change from the blue-green stuff put out by Baskin Robbins or other big name ice cream companies. Light and full of mint leaf bits!! SUPER FRESH. Only complaint is that we went at around 10PM on Friday night and the place was completely packed with a moderate line. Not a lot of space to sit, had to dive for a couple tables to accommodate a group of 7.
(4)
Jolene S.

The summer crew working at JP Licks-Harvard Sq rules! I took two "troops" over on a Wednesday afternoon/night and we all had a great time + enjoyed the seating inside/outside. To me that means JP Licks is the #1 pick for frozen treats in the Sq (for groups). I hear the oreo cake batter is THE flavor to try, but I had already eaten a medium (2 scoops: black raspberry-yummy--and a coconut flavor--good) by the time I heard that, so on my second trip I had a hot chocolate. Hope the staff stays this good, then I'll be coming back (with others) for sure.
(5)
Jennie C.

Was exhausted after a full day of sightseeing in Cambridge. So when I saw the words: best chocolate latte! I had to go check it out. But then I walked in and saw the ice cream cases and just headed straight to them... Got the peanut butter cookies & cream and mocha crunch, both were rich & creamy. The whole time we were there, the line never seemed to get any shorter. This place sure is popular, and for good reason!
(5)
hannah m.

Went to JP licks yesterday afternoon around 440. After waiting 20 min in line I ordered a small coconut pineapple smoothie. I was told they needed to get stuff from downstairs so I waited and was brought a large peach frappe. I told them again what I wanted and was asked again 3 times after this what I ordered and was waiting for as people passed me in line and I waited. After hearing someone say they accidentally made it with orange juice I was scared to try the new one they gave me. I got out of there at 5:15 and missed my bus. Not only that, they charged me full price after an atrocious wait time. I understand a few people were training but on a busy Sunday afternoon on Independence Day weekend, there should have been more veteran staff on hand. I live in the city and love JP licks but their customer service yesterday was pretty bad. I recommend trying to have repeat customers instead of the $5.30 you charged me for a mediocre 30-minute smoothie
(2)
Ahsante B.

JP licks gives you that thick, rich, creamy, gratifying ice cream, and I'm completely addicted. It's super convenient for students as it's right across from Harvard yard and the shuttle stop. They have lots of seasonal flavors, but my favorite is cookies 'n cream. It's usually pretty cramped, so it's slightly awkward for groups, but it's great for a quick late night treat! Beware that the line can be absurdly long at times (as in coming out the door of the place), but when you've got that craving, it's worth the wait.
(4)
Roopa S.

Amazing flavors and quality! I love that they have not only ice cream options but hard yogurt and frozen yogurt options. I opted for half & half-- I got oatmeal cookie hard yogurt and brownie batter ice cream, both of which were AMAZING. The oatmeal cookie was sweet but not too sweet, and truly a unique flavor that I haven't tasted before. The chocolate brownie batter ice cream was smooth and rich, with chunks of brownie embedded that made for a nice surprise every bite or so. The service was really great as well. The man behind the counter did not complain when I requested to try at least 5 different flavors, and he was extremely accommodating. Will definitely come back when I'm in the area. I want to try the pastries and the hot chocolate too!
(4)
Yu Y.

My favorite is coffee with dark chocolate corn~!
(5)
Evelyn L.

I don't ask for much, but when I ask for samples please don't make me feel bad about it. Service: The first time I went was weird. The employee I felt was bothered by me asking for samples and it wasn't even busy. Its not like I'm not going to buy anything and there are a lot of unique flavors\ that I would want to try before purchasing. I went a 2nd time when another friend joined us and wanted to try JP Licks. The 2nd time the employee (a diff one) was much nicer and gave us samples even though there was a line. Ice cream: I had cream flavor and blackberry. Delicious together. The 2nd time I had a oreo one. Nothing special though. Water: There is a water spigot on the sugar/napkin stand. Nice, unlimited agua for the sweetness. Summary: If I went back to Boston, I would not come back and visit JP Licks. If a friend visited Boston I would not tell them to visit JP Licks.
(2)
Jametria T.

Stopped through here before a Harvard Tour. We had a party of 10 and were able to get in and out pretty quickly. LOVED IT! I ordered the chocolate chip cookie frozen yogurt and it had huge chunks of cookie in it! And my husband ordered the oatmeal cookie frozen yogurt and it was soooo good. It taste like cinnamon and nutmeg and yumminess...I would highly recommend stopping through here!
(5)
Christopher C.

Most people don't know that the J.P. in J.P. Licks stands for Jamaica Plain, making this a true Boston ice cream shop. There are tons of ice cream flavors, waffle cones, frozen yogurts, and a ridiculous quantity of toppings. You can't go wrong with whatever you get here. However, my favorite is the hot chocolate. They have multiple flavors they can add and I always go for a shot of peppermint. It's just the right amount of sweet to go with the creamy chocolate powder they use. Even when I take it to go, I don't think I've ever made it home before I finish my drink. Great place for winter or summer but watch out, the Harvard Square location almost always has a line.
(5)
Gavin C.

So many unique and enticing flavors! Luckily, the staff let me get three flavors in a medium cup. I can highly recommend the Cookies & cake batter and the chocolate brownie batter. Creamy, balanced and delicious- J.P. Licks serves a true masterpiece.
(5)
Rachel R.

Since JP Licks is known for being a consistently tasty, local business with integrity, so I figured the least I could do was support them via a huge bowl of cranberry white chocolate cheesecake topped with dark chocolate mint bark (aka, the most thing festive thing since making the yuletide gay.) It was eh; I wanted over the top. Not mind-numbingly good, just mind-numbing. Much more mild than I was anticipating - just not enough cheesecake, cranberry, or white chocolate for these tastebuds. Hardly the end of the world, but then going home and seeing this "local, homemade ice cream"had a mile-long ingredient list, including partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil and high fructose corn syrup? *Soul crushed.* This is probably the first time anyone's ever said this sentence and it's actually been true, but I seriously would've been better off with a pint of Ben & Jerry's Cheesecake Brownie.
(2)
Brian D.

I come here. Often. Like three times a week often. I drink the coffee. I make them hem-and-hawww when I order banana-mango smoothies with lactose-free vanilla. I often sit outside and people watch. Fine. I do that inside too. I find this to be the least offensive (as far as lack-of-herds of free-range children go) JP Licks in the JP Licks Galaxy of locations. Actually. I used to love the Mission Hill location and went there every day. Funny story. I ran into the girl who made my latte like every day. She was working at a retail store in a mall, nowhere near Mission Hill. She recognized me. That felt pretty awesome. Cool story, Hobo! I like to watch all the international tourists try to figure out what the hell kind of store this is and then make happy faces when they eat ice cream. This is my 500th review. It only took me 8 years.
(3)
Michael C.

Had a great experience here. Decent price and the scoops they served us was bigger than I expected. Maybe because it was on a Monday afternoon the servers were really friendly and we got seats by the window to people watch while enjoying the ice cream. Its perfect location and gets a lot of praises. So I'm spreading the word of mouth on anyone visiting Harvard to definitely give it a try when you crave ice cream.
(4)
Al D.

It's not the cheapest frozen dairy products on the planet, but you get a lot of product and flavor for the money. So many choices here; including lactose-free items. Also, coffee choices abound as well. I'd come back here next time I'm out this way.
(4)
Skye G.

Dear John, Opp that is a different letter. Dear Tom, Oh how wrong I was. JP Licks strikes again. You continue to route for JP Licks and the Rum Raisin and I have to admit that I have been the Doubting Thomas. Mr G, my love, I was wrong and you were right. Yes, there ya go. I said it. The flavor, raisins, rum, smooth creamy texture pulled in a 5. For the price it was worth getting the additional scoop. The cherry cherry with chips was yum but I should have gone for 2 scoops of RR. My apologies for being a silly girl. Thanks for being so understanding and forgiving. With love, Skye
(5)
Diana R.

I was told by Bostonians and my Boston travel book I should try it and, as an ice cream lover, I made sure not to miss it. I literally giggled for a solid minute when I saw Oreo Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough was a flavor. They're my two favorites and they are combined. I had a glorious time eating a scoop on a sugar cone as I walked through Harvard's campus and feeling like I might pass for a student.
(5)
Jody G.

The service is slow and not too friendly. There are a few interesting favors (noodle kugel) but mostly the usual standards. There is a pretty long list of non-dairy and vegan and (even!) hemp ice cream. It's a coffee shop too with lots of fair traded coffees on the menu. But, I came for ice cream. And, I wasn't really impressed. My mint Oreo was just average in flavor, and slightly below that for texture (with a few icy refrozen bits). Not enough big chunks for my liking either. I would be much happier with a pint of Ben & Jerry's.
(2)
Tony H.

I was told this was THE place to go to for ice cream in Boston, but after going there I don't know why it has such great hype. The quality of the ice cream is on par with what you would get at any other chain ice cream stores across the country. Mind you it still tastes good, but it's just nothing special or even close to what the premium creamy of smaller shops you would find. They variety of flavors they have is impressive though. I had the brownie batter and the peanut butter flavor which were both good, but not great.
(3)
Nancy H.

Yay! I was so excited to find JP licks open past 10! And packed too! My boyfriend got in line ahead of me and was trying cheesecake oreo so I tell him to tell me how it is, but the girl behind the counter goes, "You want try too?" I was like "Hell yeaaa!" Okay, maybe not like that, but more like "Sure!!!" She also explains what I can get on a sundae while getting another sample for my b. Then this other guy behind the counter comes along and asks what I want so I get a small sundae with cheesecake oreo, m&ms, caramel, whipped cream, red, white, and blue sprinkles, with a cherry on top! I was so happy and this guy had such a chill attitude when I kept asking him if certain toppings worked. For some reason I felt like there were exceptions but the only thing is sundaes automatically come with sprinkles and cherry on top. Duh. Anyway, the caramel made it way too sweet but I still enjoyed every bite of it because the people there weren't grumpy, I got an awesome sundae for free because it was my anniversary for joining their rewards program, there were jimmies on top, and I was eating a huge sundae late in the evening (shocker!). Haha, but yah, hit this place up if you're craving for ice cream and get their cow card.
(5)
RONALD W.

Good stuff but I was expecting richer ice cream ala Amy's in Austin or Maggie Moos in Seattle. This stuff is really middle of the pack and I was annoyed that the waffle cone wrapper stuck to the cone and they weren't making fresh waffle cones (at least when I was there).
(3)
Monique B.

Yummy, yummy ice cream. Overpriced and crazy long lines :(
(3)
Joe T.

JP Licks now has MULTIPLE TYPES OF VEGAN ICE CREAM! Wow! I got a delicious chocolate soy ice cream with fresh raspberries on top and it was an incredible experience.
(4)
Shing Yiing O.

Walking around Harvard Square.. Saw a long line at JP Licks.. When there is a line.. it's always good.. right??? So I asked my friend what's up with JP Lick... They served really good ice-cream... that's what I've got.. I was deciding to get JP Licks or Toscanini.. Came here and get a few sample... the flavor of the month is Cow Tracks.. It was so unique... it tasted like vanilla and some chocolate chunk on it... add on a little flavor... Was bloated with brunch and decided not to get it this time.. Kinda regret.. :P but sometimes.. I just feel that the place is soo good because I just get a small "sample" of it..
(4)
Zack M.

This place has great ice cream and lots of choices! There is something for everyone here. Primo location for people watching.
(4)
Allie M.

I mean, really, can you give an ice cream shop a 5/5 rating? I don't think so. Instead I'll give this place 4/5 because the service was super friendly, helpful and funny and they recommended the (get ready for this) *beer and pretzel ice cream*! (!!!) If I weren't so lactose intolerant/allergic and ice cream weren't so fattening, I would eat it everyday.
(4)
Kimberly H.

Not one to back down from a challenge, it took me a couple of trips to find the right fit for me at JP Lick's. And because they have SO many offerings it was a task I was definitely up for. Their ice cream, which I want to love because it is homemade and in awesome flavors, is just not creamy enough for me. Same for their hard yogurt. BUT their soft frozen yogurt, more importantly their X (extra tart) yogurts are spot on! I am into the face scrunching, teeth hurting, kind of tart, and this comes as close as I am going to get in frozen yogurt. Their X Raspberry is so good, forget the toppings! Side note: they also have lactose free offerings which is a lifesaver when you have friends in town with dietary restrictions and don't want to be the jerk who makes them watch you ride the dairy train full speed ahead.
(4)
Samia O.

Pumped to go there after reading the reviews. Holy moly, the line snaked its way out the door. Since "Oreo Cake Batter" is on the top of the raved board, we asked to sample it: wasn't as chocolatey as I hoped, definitely more cake batter-ish. We actually picked out a couple flavors while standing in line.. after getting scared by the girl behind the counter who rolled her eyes while the customer debating with herself on which flavor to get. "Medium, cheesecake oreo and cappuccino crunch please, thanks!" Phew. Cheesecake Oreo: Once in a while we tasted a hint of cheesecake, with little chunks of soft oreo folded in. Creamy texture. Wish the flavors were more prominent tho. Cappuccino Crunch: Y NO COFFEE TASTE? =( I wanted coffee, not de-coffee. The crunchy bits weren't Crunch-crunchy, but rather Heath-crunchy, more toffee-like. Compared to Cold Stone's coffee, this was more like sugary milk. Maybe I will come back to try other flavors... but 2/2 were misses... or maybe not...
(3)
Joshua R.

Classic ice cream joint. They have a large selection of ice cream but sometimes are missing the basics (no soft serve vanilla??) and the consistency of the ice cream isn't spectacular. You rarely need more than one scoop as the flavors are generally very rich, so it's a great place to satisfy that sweet tooth in about 2 spoonfuls.
(4)
Lisa I.

The froyo is good as well, but they only have about 5 flavors at a time, and they're usually out of a couple of them. They're also very expensive and not particularly generous with portions. A medium ice cream costs over $5 and isn't very big. Be prepared to wait in line. Even in the middle of winter. It does move pretty quickly though. Not enough seating inside. But, they do have THE BEST chocolate-dipped waffle cones I've ever had. I'd come here just for those.
(2)
Corey L.

I'm giving it a 4, not because it's not great, but because Cambridge has so many great ice cream places that this one, which is a great place, is only good by comparison. I love their brownie batter flavor. And that they have brownie batter, cake batter, and cookie dough flavors. It's like they just didn't feel like cooking that day and just tossed the batter into the ice cream.
(4)
Kasse R.

I was staying with a friend in Boston and we decided to meet up with another one of my friends at this location for some ice cream and catch up time. Unfortunately, the serving area takes up almost all the space in this establishment, so there are very few tables, booths, and chairs for people to sit and chat over ice cream. We had to wait for a while for some (very cramped) space to open up, and it seems that even on a somewhat rainy day this place can get packed. I would probably suggest getting your ice cream to go if you plan on stopping by here. As for the ice cream itself it is very smooth and flavorful, but almost a little too sweet for my liking. I got the butter walnut with cookie dough and while it was delicious, it was almost too sugary - and I have a pretty strong sweet tooth, so you know it was a little much. Also, I believe JP Licks is a little overpriced in comparison to other ice cream + topping businesses.
(2)
Scott T.

I have been here many times and always enjoyed whatever I ordered. However I consistently have reservations with the staff (granted I tend to be in there during busy times), they can be a little rude for food service, and a couple times I was inwardly cringing on sanitation habits (working in front of customers requires more discipline than if you were working in a closed kitchen preparing food). Nothing was ever so horrible that I would refuse food (or cause a scene), but as a food service vet there are certain bad habits that you simply want to correct when you see them in practice. No excuse to be gloomy when you work in a place that serves coffee and ice cream. I ordered an ice cream cake for my gf's birthday in advance. They had forgot to prepare it when I went to pick it up, but fortunately they had what I wanted in stock. No apperent benefit to ordering ahead, so it seems safe to just pick it up (and they can customize it relatively quick).
(3)
Josie G.

1 Scoop of Vanilla: YUM Gummi Bears: YUM YUM More than $4 for it: NOT SO YUM I don't understand why their ice cream is so expensive. Goddamn city.
(4)
Alyssa F.

Alyssa "Cheezy" F Proud Cow Card carrying year round JP licker Favorite flavor: Coffee oreo Favorite topping: Caramel Preferred delivery system: Large cup (optional spoon) Preferred location: Harvard Square - best servers and servings MOO
(4)
Alex L.

JP licks is great and would deserve 4 stars for its product, but at this branch in Harvard I was served by this rudely condescending woman (short, fat, brown hair, about 30 years old) who talked to customers like they were 5 year olds needing instructions. I ordered a large, yet she served 4 tiny scoops of ice cream that didn't even go past the height of the bowl (which looks like this c.shld.net/rpx/i/s/pi/mpâ€¦ ). I couldn't help but feel both insulted and cheated. The ice cream however is pretty decent and worth coming back for. Except I would go to Davis next time to avoid this unpleasant employee.
(2)
Andrea B.

5.09 might be a bit much to pay for one scoop and one topping, but I just don't care. JP Licks has the best ice cream around. It's rich, insanely creamy, and really really sweet, which is exactly what ice cream should be, right? The oreo cake batter is definitely the best of what I've tried. It is perfectly good on its own. You do not need any toppings to complement it. It is very cakey tasting, you will not mistake it for vanilla or anything else, which can sometimes be the case with cake batter ice cream. P.S., for the sake of this review, "cakey" is a word. There are lots and lots of flavors to choose from, including hard and soft yogurt, which means I will be back lots and lots of times so I can try them all. Or as close to all of them I can get.
(5)
Steph C.

I stopped by JP Licks because I was passing by, and though I'd already had a big lunch I got a small cup of ice cream. I have to say - even if I lived in Boston, I probably wouldn't come back here with Toscanini's in the area. I did find the space very appealing. I liked the smiling cow, and the little parlor was welcoming. The service was also friendly, and I felt comfortable asking for samples. There weren't a ton of flavors that intrigued me, but I tried the avocado and the black raspberry and settled on a small of the latter. It was a neat $4. The ice cream was good but not great, and just as expensive and fattening as the great stuff. The texture was thick and gummy, which I sometimes enjoy, but it wasn't particularly well done. The flavors were fine, but only fine. The avocado was interesting, but not good enough for more than a bite. It was mostly just sweet, much sweeter than avocado, and the distinctive flavor only came out at the end. I liked the raspberry better, as it was nice and tart at first. Somehow, though, it got cloying even within a small scoop. I suppose there's no reason Bostonians should make good ice cream, but hey, Toscanini's is some of the best I've ever had. I didn't hate JP Licks, but it was mediocre. I wouldn't come back, even for that goofy cow.
(3)
Meg S.

I eat ice-cream year round and JP Licks is one of my favorites. It's not Christina's, but it has multiple convenient locations and I'm rarely disappointed in the flavors. The scoop of Killer Chocolate Chunk from my last visit was more Halloween candy overload than death by chocolate, but they make up for it with other flavors like Fresh Banana, Peach, Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, Carrot Cake, and the oddly addictive Oreo Cake Batter. Scoops and cones are pricey, but not unexpectedly so considering general Boston prices and a prime Harvard Square location. If you're local, make sure to grab a Cow Card. It's hard to beat the two free ice cream credits a year: one on your birthday and one on your Cow Card "anniversary." It's true that seating is painfully limited here (especially during the summer), but Harvard Yard is right across the street so you can always take your cone for a short walk.
(4)
Darwin G.

JP Licks is great place to stop by after a long day walking around Cambridge and Harvard campus. Even their Small is a decent portion so I would share that with someone unless you're ravaging for ice cream. The pistachio is probably the best I've ever tried. It wasn't too sweet and whole pieces of pistachio. The bathroom system is quite strange and you'll need to ask for a "token" in order to use it.
(4)
Rebecca P.

Unlike many of the people who reviewed on this board, I'm not complaining about the customer service, which I thought was fine. I really just wanted to say how disappointed I was with the frozen yogurt. I have had their coffee before and adored it - I couldn't wait to go back and try their ice cream, which is my true love. Well, I went back today and got a medium coffee chip yogurt (which, by the way, cost over $5 but that's besides the point). It was pretty much completely melted. I couldn't even eat it - I put it straight into the freezer at work. The texture was almost slushy. Very disappointed. To JP Lick's credit, though, the flavor was very good. I might try again on another day, in case today was an "off" day and the freezer was simply not working as well.
(2)
Morgen B.

If only I got paid in JP Licks gift cards...I'd be a type two diabetic by now. I love this ice cream! It's ever changing flavor menu and the crowded space in which to order make me feel like I need to make a choice NOW. I've often rushed to choose (the pressure of people behind me was too much to handle, sweet Mohammed) and luckily the random flavor of the night has always been good. Pick anything here, it will probably be awesome. If not, check the sign, you might be in the wrong establishment. The only downside is the price. I'm not ballin like the monopoly man, I can't just spend all my money on dairy treats.
(4)
Sungeeta A.

Love!! They have a ton of flavors and they give you generous samples. I sampled extreme chocolate but went with Chocolate Brownie Batter at the suggestion of the lady behind the counter. SO GOOD! The chunks of brownie batter were amazing! I can't wait to go back!!
(4)
Gita N.

loved the ice cream and the cone too! try maple butter walnut!
(5)
Leslie H.

You mean to tell me there's a place in this world where you can get coffee ice cream and NOT have to pay to add Oreos? Coffee Oreo ice cream?! I think my life is complete. Or at least my vacation to the greater Boston area was complete after a post-dinner trip to JP Licks. At $4 for a small (one scoop), I was a little leery, but you get a good amount of ice cream, and the ice cream is pretty delicious. My cousin had the Cherry Garciaparra. I gotta say, I love creative ice cream names, and delicious ice cream, so this place is a winner in my book. One thing that was a little tricky is that the kids size is listed under the large instead of above the small, so I completely missed it. I was happy with my one scoop, but I didn't necessarily need to eat that much ice cream.
(4)
Rebecca C.

Ok, I didn't order anything but I had a taste of my friends' ice-creams. The lactose-free vanilla bean was good, which I was surprised by. It melted faster than the lactose ice-creams though. My other friend ordered the oreo ice-cream and it was good! Not overly sweet but sweet enough.
(3)
Kara C.

Absolutely delicious ice cream! Definitely a good choice if you're getting a craving and you're in Harvard Square. I love how many different flavors they have. Additionally, they sell beautiful ice cream cakes which are great for special occasions. Only downside: Limited seating. When it is busy be prepared to stand in the corner while you eat your ice cream.
(3)
Abby C.

Food/Cost: (2.5/5) (Note: This review is for the Chai only) I got a small soy chai latte here and it lightened my wallet by about $4. It was an ok chai, but not quite worth the amount I paid for it. It was a bit weak in flavor. JP Licks also displays an appetizing selection of savory crossiants which I wish I was hungry enough to purchase. Many Yelpers have commented favorably on the ice cream here; alas I was only in the area as a visitor and didn't want ice cream in the morning. Service: (4/5) The two male staffers here in the morning of my visit were both very friendly and did their best to be fast with the drink orders. Still, the line did go a tad too slowly for my liking. Ambiance: (5/5) I came here around 8:30am on a Thursday and there was a steady stream of customers - both tourists and locals alike. I quite enjoyed the dÃ©cor of JP Licks. It's super fun. The green, grassy walls and dark browns and blacks provided a good backdrop for the bright colors that overlaid them. It's casual, hip, and trendy here without being cheesy or too cutesy. Location: (5/5) This JP Licks is conveniently located right across from Harvard. It's also right off the Harvard T stop. I imagine it is a regular stop for many students or locals in the area. Overall:(3/5) Even with a mediocre drink, JP Lick manages to garner a OK rating, which is speaks to its top notch branding and decor. I wish I could try their ice creams as those seem to comprise a large part of JP Licks appeal. That said, if you're in the area, I would recommend checking this place out.
(3)
Mike S.

JP Licks # 1 ice cream chain in the area in my opinion. The coffee oreo flavor is to die for!
(5)
jun k.

Cute interior. I foresee this being a place that I'll frequent often simply because it looks like a hangout place. Honestly, after Norcal, CA ice cream, JP Licks is just aite for me. I tried their oreo cakebatter flavor which was overly sweet and fluffy, and the peach which was whatevers. I liked their tart yogurt... but.... for $4 a pop? Meh. Next time I'm going to try the coffee.
(3)
M G.

The ice cream was fine; I just have to note that contrary to the person who went on 5/5/2014; my party was served some mighty small portions. I used to get the kiddie as the small was a lot; but they seem to gotten past that. The kiddie was half a full scoop and the small--just a full scoop. Which if we were in Europe would be fine...but in America --no. Maybe JP Licks is having some financial problems and decided to make portions smaller and keep the price the same? But for a $4 scoop...I want a bigger scoop. Just say'in.
(2)
Joshua S.

This place in dangerous, I'm almost glad they don't exist near my home...if it did I'd weigh 50 pounds more than I do now...that's about all that needs to be said here.
(5)
Lisa L.

Two flavors in one cup?! SOLD! The line was out the door and really, can you go wrong with ice cream??? I think not. The mint oreo and chocolate were delightful. So was the oatmeal flavor, which I was skeptical to try... but the amount of cinnamon was on par with what the cookie should taste like. I'd eat ice cream from JP LICKS in the winter, snowing and all!
(5)
Ami G.

When my husband and I went up to Cambridge for his 10th year college reunion recently, I knew we were going out for dinner and then hitting up the actual event. I decided to do a little vegan dessert investigation because Cambridge is pretty well-known for being a vegan-friendly place given its diverse student population. I wasn't sure if we would even have time for dessert, but I wanted to be prepared in case we did! In my Google searches for vegan ice cream in Harvard Square, I was delighted to find two ice cream shops that offer vegan and gluten-free ice cream options! Lizzy's and J.P. Licks, both which are popular spots well-regarded for making their own ice creams, make it clear on their websites that vegan ice cream is available! I told my husband if we had time after the reunion and were able to get to one of those places before they closed, I would really like to try one of them. It's so rare to find vegan ice cream served in an ice cream shop, so I kept my fingers crossed that circumstances worked in my favor. Happily, they did! We left the reunion at 11:22 exactly! Lizzy's was closed, but J.P. Licks was open till midnight, which was perfect since it was only a short walk from where we parked. I was so excited to finally be able to buy vegan ice cream in a shop along with the less dietary-restricted masses! I was also a tiny bit nervous too- I was afraid I would go in only to find either they didn't really have vegan ice cream or that they were out of it, since it is a really busy place and it was the end of their night. I'll cut to the chase- loud and clear, written in chalk on their blackboard menu, were three vegan ice cream options! J.P. Licks offered soy-based chocolate fudge, chai, and coffee lace flavored ice creams! Better yet, those flavors were fully in stock! I ended up ordering two scoops- one of the soy chai and one of the soy coffee lace (the lace is just chocolate that is marbled throughout the coffee ice cream). I know sometimes I sound like every food I try and describe on the blog is amazing, but I promise you when I say I like something I really do. So let me tell you then that I liked this ice cream- a lot. In fact, I loved it. Even more, I think I just may be a wee bit obsessed. Only second to the ice cream at Lula's Sweet Apothecary in New York City, J.P. Licks vegan ice cream is hands-down the best vegan ice cream I have ever had! The soy chai blew me away- the ice cream was creamy and thick and the soy flavor was perfectly balanced as it wasn't too strong or too weak. The coffee lace was equally divine in flavor and texture. I am going to venture to say that this ice cream was so rich, if you told me it was fine Italian gelato made of whole milk, I would believe you in a heartbeat. Since I like my ice cream to be as decadent as possible (I just say no to sorbets!), this ice cream made me swoon. Every bite came with a squeal of contentment. What was also wonderful about it was that despite the fact it was very rich, it sat so well in my stomach ! It didn't give me a stomachache or weigh me down, as ice cream can sometimes do to me. My tummy agreed with it just as much as my tastebuds did! Now, I just have to find where I can get vegan ice cream in an ice cream shop in Rhode Island. I know there's the vegan ice cream truck Like No Udder in Providence, which I cannot wait to track down and try, but I wonder if any actual ice cream shops offer vegan ice cream? I need to do some research I guess!
(4)
Monica P.

The flavors are good but I have been once again reminded why I never come here. I get that y'all are trying to give off this "too cool" vibe and deal with ridiculous tourists all day, but you should keep in mind that you are still a service and I am still a consumer. Be nice to me, treat me like any other ice cream place would treat me, and I will give you my money. See, when you have that dgaf attitude and employ people who really just don't want to be there, you are disrespecting me a customer and now I am really turned off by everything about JP Licks. Get outta here with all that. You are not too good for me. Maybe you should take notes from the customer service quality at 21 Choices, Pasadena, CA. #canigohomenow?
(2)
Teng L.

Do you remember Vienneta? Well, we found out that it's sadly no longer being made in the States so we decided to drown our sorrows in an icecream cake from this place, and boy was it nothing at all like Vienneta. Their cake was covered with a layer of thick ice crystals, similar to how mold grows on rotting food. We took one bite into it, and it was a hard, flavorless, cold lump of... matter. There was no icecreaminess to it at all. So we took it back to the counter and this place immediately went from a zero star establishment to a five star. The guy at the counter was so nice, and went back to the fridge to take out 3 less moldy cakes, but to our eyes they were still pretty moldy. He apologized and said they had a problem with their freezer and offered us some scoops of delicious and fresh icecream instead. We had the cashew and the pistachio and they were both delicious and creamy. I really appreciated how they accommodated our complaint, it really made up for the moldy cake, but I'll still have to leave off a star because of it. Otherwise, JP Licks is great!
(4)
Michelle M.

They don't even deserve 1 star!! What would you do if you saw the guy behind the counter drop the ice cream scoop on the floor and pick it back up and put it in the water with all the other scoops??? I asked the other worker if they could take it out and get an attitude look and not even an apology!! Never go back there again!! YUCK and dirty!!
(1)
Vicky H.

Of all the JP LICKS, this is my least favorite. It's tiny and can never find a place to sit. In comparison to the other JP Licks, the bathroom here isn't the cleanliest either. My favorites are still the one in JP and Brigham Circle. It's summer time. why aren't they opened later???
(2)
Alicia S.

JP Licks, accept my apologies. I underestimated you. I judged you. I thought you were only a "cute" "quirky" ice cream shop and nothing more. Oh what a fool I've been! You roast your own coffee beans! You have lactate free ice cream! Your Oreo Cookie dough and Thin Mint - divine. Please look beyond my foolishness, and welcome me back into your faux grass walled pasture soon. Love - me.
(4)
Marysol V.

Since the taste of an artificial flavor that I can't quite discern is still in my mouth, I'll say a one star rating is quite appropriate. In their defense, I finished the kiddie size pistachio ice cream only 10 minutes ago, maybe I need to wait a little longer for it to fade away..... let me sum up my experience here; I walked in and waited in a 20 minute line because who wouldn't for an ice cream place with such great reviews. Halfway through the line I look up at the price board and realized I had to pay more than 3$ for 4 oz of ice cream. Ok, I justified this because its local, organic, grass fed, blah blah. Now, while I trully believe in the above mentioned trends and their benefits to society, I expected to get a kick ass, mind altering, out of this world ice cream experience. Instead, I was reminded of my culinary school days when we had to use canned marzipan with crap loads of almond extract because our school was too cheap to give us anything better. I didn't like that artificial flavor then and for some reason the pistachio ice cream I had here tasted artificial. so either I am going bat shit crazy or it was an intern who prepared that batch of overpriced pistachio ice cream.
(1)
Stefani T.

Liked it so much we went twice during our visit to Boston. Generous servings, yummy flavors and friendly service ensure long lines throughout the day. these guys live up to the hype! Good job JP - I like you.
(4)
Jane C.

I personally think it's hard to get work done here because there's always so many people. But the ice cream is amazing- tastes very "home-made" as they say. Even in the winter, it's worth getting.
(5)
Marisol H.

I absolutely and entirely LOVE JP Licks!! It warrants two exclamation marks. I remember the first time I visited JP Licks 9 years ago in Jamaica Plain (their flagship store) and just falling hopelessly in love with the Oreo ice cream and the cow on the roof. Making the trek to JP was too much for a poor college student, so over the years I ended up making shorter pilgrimages to satisfy my ice creamy craving-- to Newbury St. then (joy) Davis Square. Imagine my elation when I return to Cambridge this spring and find a JP freakin' Licks in HARVARD SQUARE. That's right, right smack on Mass Ave and across from Holyoke Gate--- waffle cone nirvana. What else can I say about this place that hasn't already been said? The ice cream is wonderful, the flavors are exciting (love to try their Flavors of the Month), they have a Cow Card (for reward points), and their black board is cool. I am a regular here, and you'll likely find me ODing on jimmies come summer.
(5)
Louis B.

Gargantuan sized ice creams, tasty smoothies, awesome cakes and great Espresso. I fell in love with their yogurt, since I am 100% lactose intolerant and ice cream does a job on my stomach. The greatest thing about the place, however, is that besides the good cheerful service, the outstanding food, and the superb coffee, they are tried and true local businesses. They will get my money anytime I'm in the area.
(4)
Elizabeth G.

I always have the hardest time reviewing the places I like the best. In my opinion, this is the best ice cream in Boston (maybe tied with Toscanini's but they're sooooo faaaar awaaaaay now that the Harvard Square location closed). Let's just say I have been here too many times for my own good. I feel like this should be an occasional indulgence and not a place where the staff recognizes you... but they recognize me. There are so many great reasons to go to JP Licks, before you even get to the ice cream. There's good coffee, a small for $1. There are yummy pastries (croissants, scones, cookies, brownies). If you like spicy things, please don't miss the Diablo Hot Chocolate. You can order a cute cow-spot-patterned ice-cream cake for your next office party. Sign up for the loyalty club and you will get a free sundae on your birthday, and earn points with each purchase for a future freebie. There are a few tables where you can sit and read; window seats for people-watching; outdoor tables in nice weather. The place can be a little overwhelming to the senses, with its astroturf walls and always-long lines and pumping loud music. But the staff are friendly, and if it all gets to be too much for you, at least you can zone out on your sugar high. So, that brings me to the ice cream. A broad range of flavors and oh boy do they pack a punch. There are about a dozen "monthly special" flavors that change on the first of the month. The fall ones are the best (variations on pumpkiny and spicy things, and one based on stout). In February the focus is chocolate. March is mint/green things (including one with Thin MInt Girl Scout cookies). If you see peanut butter Oreo on the list, snap it up then and there! It might be the best thing I've ever eaten. Every month they also have some frozen yogurt specials and sherbet specials, and they also just introduced a line of dairy-free ice cream with a coconut milk base. You can get your ice cream in a cup (yes they have child size), a cone, or a sundae (fun toppings like Fruity Pebbles and Cap'n Crunch). The friendly employees will gladly combine 2 or 3 flavors in the same cup if you ask. They also let you taste multiple flavors before deciding. On occasion I will still go a few doors down to Baskin Robbins. Gotta be honest -- this is when I am craving salt. There is no (or very little) added salt in JP Licks' product, whereas Baskin Robbins packs a salt-sugar punch that keeps you wanting more. JPL uses almost all natural ingredients (their mint ice creams are still green, which is why I say "almost"), whereas at BR you know there is a good dose of artificial in there... that space-styrofoam texture wouldn't be possible otherwise. Call me weird, but on my most stressed-out days, sometimes I crave that. On almost all other days, find me at JP Licks.
(5)
Stephen S.

JP Licks is amazing, part of what really does it for me is that I love oreos and cookies and cream ice cream and JP Licks offers several different varieties of this well loved classic: Cheesecake Oreo, Cake Batter Oreo, Coffee Oreo, Oreo, Mint Oreo. Oh man, they've got oreo covered! They also offer a very satisfying (although a little expensive) kiddie size if you're just looking for a little treat. While not as good as the in town rival Toscanini's JP Licks has several locations which makes it a little easier to come by and it's definitely a back up that is legitimately awesome in its own right.
(4)
Natalie T.

A nice place to stop at on a hot day at Harvard square. Nice service and delicious ice cream. I once got oatmeal cookie which tasted just like an actual cookie. The mint chip is just as good!
(5)
Judy L.

red velvet + cheesecake brownie ice cream in a waffle cone = mmm Note: this place is ALWAYS busy so might need to wait for seats.
(4)
Lexi K.

Crowded ice cream shop but it was worth the wait. I enjoyed my ice cream and thought it was delicious. I was also impressed with their eclectic menu and thought there was a wide selection for everyone.
(4)
Cat C.

I just want to thank the crew at this store for being super awesome every day! I go there for 1-3 coffee fixes. I get an ice cream on occasion, but really, they are my alternate coffee house. Don't forget your coffee mug for that one dollar coffee! Anyway, thanks guys and gals, keep being awesome :D
(5)
Meka A.

I wondered why there were no Dairy Queen or Baskin Robbins in Harvard square until I went to Licks. Licks is amazing. They have traditional ice cream and soft-serve (low cal) for the sorority girls who want to keep it tight. The flavors are abundant and delicious and all of the toppings are perfect compliments to the awesome ice cream. They also have a loyalty program for the frequent visitors. I used to think ice cream was only appropriate in the summertime. I was wrong. Licks crushes it all year long.
(4)
Claire W.

Amazing. So creamy. Their pistachio is the best I've ever had. Ãœber-fresh. Just tried the cucumber flavor yesterday and it was refreshing, a great summer choice. The mojito sherbet is toe-curling good.
(5)
Saira K.

Be prepared for extra-long lines, but good things come to those who wait (even if it is a little pricey).
(4)
Phuong D.

Homemade ice cream with very creative flavors. It's also in Harvard Square, a great area for you to enjoy your ice cream with live music if you're lucky!
(5)
Todd K.

Love this place. I've been to this location and the one in Back Bay. The ice cream is always the perfect consistency and the flavors are inventive and WORK unlike novelty flavors at other places. The seasonal flavors are my favorite- peanut butter Oreo, Oreo cookie dough, and maple butter walnut come to mind as favorites. If I had one complaint it's that they store their scoops in water and don't dry them before scooping (a rookie mistake that leaves a thin layer of ice on the ice cream) but that aside everything there is delicious and well made. TRY EVERYTHING!
(5)
Guillermo M.

The variety of flavors and the quality of the ice cream is excellent. I would love to try more of them. They made us try a lot of flavors before deciding even though it was packed.
(4)
Dee B.

*3.5 stars* It had been a long time since I'd had any JP Licks. I came in a bit biased, as my niece worked at a JP Licks for a couple of summers and back then I thought they were great. However, now my assessment was -- this ice cream is too damn sweet! Yes, it's creamy, yes, they have great flavors, but the overarching theme just seems to be sugar here. The service was very friendly here, I'll give them that.
(3)
Victor C.

The line wasn't too bad when I went here. Took only a few minutes to get a couple scoops of hand made ice cream. This place is good, don't get me wrong, but I wans't blown away. Wait, I think someone said I'd be blown away right? Well, I wasn't. That said, I liked it for what it was. Ice cream. It was really creamy too which made me second guess eating it because I didn't remember how lactose intolerant I was.
(4)
Geoff c.

I had JP Licks and Toscanini in the same day. Theyre both good. Though JP Licks doesn't have as many unique flavors as Toscanini, what they do have, they do well. They get tons of visitors and the line easily goes out the door, which creates a wait that some might find not worth a scoop of ice cream. They also have this weird demeanor though, that almost comes off as a superiority complex. I'm not sure if this is just unfriendly service or whatnot, but it's not very welcoming. Yet, they can afford to do it because there is a constant high demand for their goods. But either way. Their ice cream is good stuff.
(4)
Joshua M.

I'm giving JP Licks 5 stars for one reason and one reason only: For the month of January 2012 they have Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Dough! Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Dough was invented by Ben and Jerry's. It was discontinued at some point in the late 90's or very early 00's, but was available throughout a decent amount of my childhood. Nowadays, independent ice cream places will occasionally have chocolate peanut butter cookie dough as a flavor of the month. I've seen it at Herrel's and Emack and Bolio's. Every time I see it, I rejoice. JP Licks' particular choc. peanut butter cookie dough isn't the best. There isn't enough peanut butter. The cookie dough chunks are a little too small. Their chocolate ice cream works, but it doesn't go above and beyond its duty. In general, JP Licks doesn't have the best ice cream in the area (go to the dairy farm ice cream stands in the metrowest area or some other local shops). The thing is, we're in a region known for its good ice cream and so it's hard for a good, but unremarkable ice cream place to stand above the crowd here. JP Licks gets the job done and I commend them for that. But, as I said, what really earns them five stars is the Choc. Peanut butter cookie dough.
(5)
Jess M.

The Harvard Sq. JP licks is really quirky...love it. The staff...holy hipsters make me smile (and/or laugh) and the clients typically make me cringe (Harvard tourists and undergrads). The icecream is good, of course, but I usually go for the coffee. You wouldn't think that this would be the place to go for coffee, but trust me when I say avoid Dunkin Donuts and go here. For that matter, avoid Starbucks too. Although it did make me sad that this used to be Toscanni's...way awesomer.
(3)
Rachel G.

I'm sorry. I just can't lie about it any longer- I'm addicted to JP Licks. The vibe in all their stores is pretty similar-- delicious, creative ice cream flavors served by a hipster, somewhat nonplussed staff, to a ravenous, often-confused gaggle of patrons. As one of the confused, ravenous masses, I can safely say this place is heaven. Their ice cream flavors are fantastic, but I usually opt for froyo (hard or soft) and a whole heap of toppings, instead. The sugarfree flavors are chemical-tasting but not bad, and the lactose-free coconut milk ones are a great alternative if dairy makes your stomach hate you. They also sometimes have lactose-free hemp flavors, but I've never tried 'em. The Harvard Square location is almost always busy; I've never been there when they don't have a line. It also has one of the more zoned-out group of employees, but this has never really bothered me all that much... except when they skimp on the toppings (I'd say this happens around 30% of the time). When they're super busy on a warm night (especially on the weekends) the service can be pretty curt, but JP Harvard's staff is generally a nice group of people. All of that being said, I LOVE JP LICKS.
(5)
Anu T.

Amazing flavor and a super rich taste. Cant go wrong. The Harvard Square shop is super friendly and the atmosphere is amazing. Definitely my go to place on a nice summer night :)
(5)
Julia L.

Packed place but perfect for a sunny afternoon if you have time to kill because the wait was about 25 minutes. I didn't see anyone else trying flavors, but the gentleman behind the counter kindly let me try the key lime sorbet despite the busy hour. Ended up getting a medium cone with key lime sorbet (amazing!) and cappuccino crunch (eh) - DEFINITELY coming back.
(5)
L. B.

Good ice cream. Also makes great ice cream cakes for birthdays.
(5)
Leor A.

Banging! Choices are inventive and awesome, plus they get updated frequently. Staff is chill about letting you try stuff as long as you're not a total dickhole about it.
(5)
Eric F.

Tried a few more flavors over my past couple of visits with the most recent being Fresh Lumpy Primate and the ever popular Oreo Cake Batter...I now see why everyone loves it so much ;) Very fresh cake batter flavor that's more creamy and distinct than Cold Stone's and others' attempts.
(4)
Lauren J.

Homemade ice cream is so delicious. 4.25 for a scoop. Try the monthly flavors - today I had Bailey's chocolate chip cheesecake and it was great.
(5)
Hannah D.

I love this JP Licks location! Not only is it right by all the fun that is Harvard Square, but they're the only one I've been to where I've been able to find my favorite flavor--the lactose-free Pumpkin! Like all JP Licks, it's pretty cute inside, so I understand why all the Harvard kids will go hang out in there on the weekends since it's literally across the street. Their ice cream is phenomenal. Anyway, I had a great experience here, sitting in front of the window and people watching on a Saturday night with my friend Sarah. But seriously: Newbury, Mission Hill, y u no carry lactose-free pumpkin? It's the best!
(4)
Janice V.

french toast muffin is good, but the mint mocha mix is not as tasty as i believed. very filling, lots of people all the time, happy customers, great music, happy me. though a star down because the mint mocha mix was not fully stirred. Good coffee, good caffine, I'm so awake, and I only got 5 hours of sleep.
(4)
Fabio D.

It happened once a couple of weeks ago at Davis Sq. and Sunday at the Harvard Sq. location, the soy coffee lace dairy free flavor is almost all the way melted. Unacceptable! When i asked why, the young lady told me it was because the day was too hot and the type of ice cream (i had the same ice cream quite a few times before and it was served properly)! FIX IT!!!
(1)
Clare F.

I have been to JP Licks so much since it opened in Harvard Square that its not fair that I have not yet reviewed it. 1. Coffee: Drink the organic Peru La Florida blend with soy milk. You'll especially thank me when you bring in your re-useable travel mug and be charged a mere dollar. Iced coffee is just as good. 2. I haven't had an ice cream flavor there that I didn't like. I love their pistachio, but normally opt for the fat free frozen yogurts (soft serve) with rainbow sprinkles. You can't go wrong (especially when cookie and peanut butter are in the same machine and you can get them swirled. HEAVEN). 3. They don't have it very often, but the chocolate sorbet is to die for. 4. The baked goods are equally tastey. Savory croissants are even better when they heat them up in the toaster. And they literally have the best chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting in the Boston area. Forget Sweet, forget Kickass Cupcakes, this is the real deal. 5. If you go with any regularity, get a loyalty card and register it online. You get $5 free dollars for every fifty you spend, a free sundae for your birthday, a free sundae every anniversary of when you registered your card, and the online registration gets you a free coffee and a free sundae. The only down side are tourists who don't know how to stand in line in an orderly manner during busy summer days. I usually read a book while waiting in line. EDIT: Please also try July's frozen yogurt: Black Currant. I can't even begin to describe how delicious it is. If you're feeling adventurous, try it with chocolate chips.
(5)
Emily M.

Impeccable customer service from Chris made our experience exceptional at the Harvard Square location. He sold me on a flavor that I may have otherwise not tried--something like a cranberry white chocolate cheesecake--and I ended up ordering a scoop...plus the peanut butter cookie dough, which was jammed with peanut butter flavor and deliciously creamy. I am a Ben & Jerry's super fan, and this ice cream compares.
(5)
Holly G.

Oh my god, some of the best ice cream I have had to date! I loved how they had so many unique flavors! Including 4 different types with oreo in them. I got the Cake Batter Oreo and I was in l-o-v-e. My boyfriend got Coffee Oreo and my sister got Kowluha...both, also incredible. I also loved the decor of the place. It and its fantastic plastic grass on the walls. Plus, they had a "kiddie" size and I always appreciate an ice cream place that I can order an x-small at (even though this time I wish I had order a medium). Yum!
(5)
Jason U.

Great homemade ice cream. You can really taste the difference in the cream.
(4)
Brian D.

Not many places do peanut butter ice cream well... JP Licks has cracked the code though! And the peanut butter hard yogurt is incredible (especially considering it's much better for you). The problem is that everything here is good... Oreo cake batter! Chocolate chip cookie dough! And their monthly special flavors are to die for! It's not as gourmet as Christina's (Inman Square), but this place is consistently SOLID. TIP: Get an ice cream cake from JP Licks for your next birthday. They are indescribably good!
(4)
Los H.

Here's how it's as good as it gets: It's open until Midnight. There's no where else you can just pop-in for a decent espresso after 10p. Along with that is, of course, the delightful staff, rotating art, & delicious frozen treats, yeah? Here's the cherry atop the wonder: Supposing you're good by mixing-in with the cars, the J.P. Licks by Harvard University sits just short of a sweet, rolling decline for longboard landcrusing. Peel off to the left as you spot the cow & hop onto the pedestrian walkway, cool your heels inside, or out - the outdoor space is yet another feature of this fine establishment.
(5)
Aspen B.

I really liked the Oreo ice cream, this is what I have read is good so I had to try it for myself. I love the fact that the ice cream is homemade and they have good toppings. I have yet to try the coffee but I have heard that if you bring your own mug it is only 1 buck, not a bad deal at all. I will definitely return!
(4)
Roscoe R.

I'm picking this JP Licks location because it's the one I visit most often, but they're all similar as far as ice cream flavors go. Though I was sad when Toscanini's didn't return to this storefront after Harvard renovated the building (and I was similarly sad when Denise's Ice Cream left Davis Square), I was glad to see another local ice cream place -- JP Licks -- replace Tosci's and Denise's. JP Licks has really good ice cream (and hot fudge). They'd get 4 stars if they had better variety and novelty. Their flavor selection is limited and relatively unappealing compared to other ice cream places. Sadly, they removed my favorite flavor (FTO White Coffee) from their regular flavor list, though it sometimes appears as a monthly flavor. Their monthly flavors tend to repeat themselves annually/seasonally -- never anything new, it seems. Prices are what you'd expect for premium ice cream. They're expensive but not outrageous. And servers are usually very friendly (especially Katie, if she's still working there). Overall, if you're in Harvard Square looking for ice cream, it's a tossup between Lizzy's and JP Licks. I'd probably pick Lizzy's first, because it's less of a chain (only 2 locations) and they have more interesting flavors. But you really can't go wrong with either place.
(3)
David R.

As with any JPs, you get some nice homemade ice cream. On the other hand, seating is limited, and the area up front is a bit crazy with students rushing in and out. Best plan is to plan to take your ice cream to go. Coffee isn't bad, isn't great.
(3)
MJ L.

Set in the heart of Harvard Square, this is a great place for a quick treat. Always amazing - especially love the chocolate peanutbutter ice-cream flavor. Fro Yo is also available. Their ice-cream cakes are easy crowd pleasers.
(4)
Kaella C.

If you've read any of my other reviews, you know that I recently had a friend up from Miami. I wanted to show her the great food exclusive to Boston and J.P. Licks was no exception! We showed up about an hour before closing and it was packed! The location is quite small and there isn't much room to move around. We got in line and ordered - the staff was great. The ice cream is just amazing. I got chocolate chip peanut butter (I think that's what it was) and my friend got cookie dough. She said it was some of the best ice cream she had ever had. They have quite a few places for seating and there's a good amount of room between each table, which is nice. The seat on the outside is quite close to the line though and some people even had to do a sideways shuffle to get by. They have seating outside as well. The small size is the only downside, but otherwise it's great.
(4)
Anna R.

Super cute ice creamery frequented by locals and tourists alike! Loved their non-traditional flavors (Coconut Almond Chip, Cake Batter, White Coffee) and their Hard Yogurt flavors (Coffee Chip). Fan of the Hard Yogurt as a lower calorie alternative. Shop is colorful and fun and staff is friendly and helpful.
(4)
Madeline S.

Only mediocre soft serve that melts sooo fast. Very pricey and the people were rude!
(2)
Angela K.

This location gets pretty packed in the evenings due to its location neighboring the campus. 2 stars on a Sunday.. 4 stars on a Monday night or Tuesday... 3 stars in between. The rating discrepancy is due to the fact that they restock Monday afternoons. By Sunday night they were out of almost every froyo flavor. I had already tried the ice cream twice at another location, was in the mood for froyo and was looking forward to giving theirs a shot. Bummer.. I can't even rate them on their froyo because I didn't get to try it. I started ordering item after item advertised on the menu, and one by one I got shot down. (e.g. couldn't do the apple sundae because they were out of apples.. etc.. etc.) My only option was to just go with regular ice cream again. I was extremely rushed because there was a huge line and I had already taken longer than normal trying to figure out what was actually available. They really need a system to unavailable items. I ended up with half maple nut half I don't remember.. both were good but nothing ultra special (hence me not even remembering exactly what I got!). For the price I could've gotten a half gallon carton of equally tasty ice cream from the grocery store.
(3)
Julia N.

In the summer when they have peach ice cream its the flavor you have to get!!! The last time it was here they sold out. I shed a tear and then got my backup flavor coffee Oreo. Coffee Oreo extra thick frappes = bliss. However, you have to be on them about the extra thick part. I definitely got a mostly liquid milk one the other night. Ugh. This place is busy even during blizzards. Literally came in here last winter to bundle up before making my way to work and there were so many people! The line moves fast though so don't lose hope. I also kinda like the fauxgrass walls :)
(4)
S G.

They can be good and not so good - some of the experimental icecreams just don't pan out. Still, we stop there plenty during the summer months, so they're doing something right!
(3)
Bill M.

JP Licks is a treat for me and my girlfriend, and this location is the best location out of the ones I have been to, hopefully the business here doesn't suffer since they are putting a starbucks about 3 blocks away. Anyway, Ice Cream. First I want to point out that they have a rewards program that is VERY useful, every 50 dollars, you get 5 dollars toward a purchase. When you are going through and getting Ice Cream regularly, this comes in handy, cause every once in awhile, hey, free ice cream! They make the best Frappes in town, and have such a selection of oreo products it's not even funny. I love their El Diablo Ice Cream when they have it in stock (El Diablo Oreo? Get on it JP Licks!). They have a variety in the menu that they freshen up every month with various monthly varieties. This causes you to actually have to If I'm going to splurge, break a diet, etc, it will be due to JP Licks, and the smile on my girlfriends face when I suggest it..
(5)
Mi L.

Tried two cups of coffee there, hadn't tasted the ice cream. Mocha too sweet. Latte was just so so. The barista was very careful with making the two cups of coffee, which took quite a long time. Environment is okay. Won't go again.
(3)
Bree M.

Sooo good!! I had Oreo Cake-batter, husband had chocolate with cookie dough topping. Both were excellent. They also have lactose free which is great for all the people that now can't have lactose. Will go again for sure when we visit Boston area.
(5)
Alma C.

super creamy ice cream, convenient location, efficient service especially given the looooong lines. fair warning: you may get into a diabetic coma due to the large portion sizes.
(4)
Vaishnovi K.

The ice cream is really good but just taking down a star because it was already half melted when they gave it to me in the cup. But other than that, the flavors are amazing. I had the Rum Raisin and loved it.
(4)
Theresa J.

J.P. Licks is like the most expensive ice cream joint on the planet but I still go here to get my fix of White Coffee ice cream every now and then. I do not really try any of the other flavors because I don't want to bankrupt myself and I don't even like the flavor...lol....I will just stick with what I know and love. Trust me...nothing else says love like paying 6 something for a pint of ice cream...lmao. I had to take a star off because the kiddie size is like the size of one of those tiny ass cups that you see at the office bubbler and it costs like 3 or 4 bucks.....so obviously the prices are so not cute.
(4)
Jessica W.

I had always heard about JP Licks from friends, but until recently never got the chance to try it. The ice cream was good, but a little hard (texture wise). I may just not be partial to homemade ice cream. It was a pretty basic cookie dough. Nothing special. Maybe I just played it too safe? I was there on a Wednesday night so I can't attest to how busy it gets, it was pretty quiet. It is in a pretty busy campus area so I can imagine it gets a little hectic.
(3)
Tom E.

Hey John W - you shyster, I skipped Berryline just to get the First To Review on this place an hour ago, and you pip me to the post. I FAIL AT YELP And so what did I get instead of the beloved Berryline? I got a solid if boring banana ice cream in a cup. It sums up JP licks for me - the ice cream is pretty good quality but the flavors are usually deathly boring save for the occasional gem (like cayenne chocolate) and it's not value either. For the former I'll go to Toscis and for the latter I'll be at Christina's. So while I was stuck staring blankly at the tepid flavors board, wishing I was over at Berryline instead of attempting this failed first to review, I did notice the wonderful interior design of this store.... green fake plastic grass all up the walls, wonderful spherical lightshades and eccentric framed art. It's a pretty stunning set-up, and with nice wide windows and some patio seating - they've got themselves a great spot. It's between Gnomon Copy and Leavitt and Pierce, close to where Mr Toscanini failed so miserably at accounting and tax a year before. How anyone could fail at ice cream selling at this location is beyond me. I think this will signal the beginning of the end for the lowly Herrel's round the corner and the stale Baskin Robbins in the Dunkin a bit further along. But Lizzy's should live on, the Ben and Jerry's in the Garage will be fine and... and.. and... DON'T FORGET BERRYLINE. It's not far and tastes so much better. Again, damn you John W.
(3)
Martin K.

Stopped here after Mr Bartley's on a whim. Outstanding ice cream. I had fresh cucumber which was very unique. My daughter had Oreo cake batter which was amazing. I went the next night to the Back Bay one and had the El DIablo (chocolate with cinnamon and cayenne) along with fresh peach (1/2 and 1/2). All well done.
(5)
Bailey M.

Fake grass covering the walls== AMAZING. Had the cookie batter ice cream in a chocolate covered cone... I think I went a little bit overboard since it was my first time here. I think the ice cream stands on its own, so next time I'll just do a regular cup. Super sweet ice cream, very delicious. Place was packed, which means I'm not the only one who thinks this.
(5)
John L.

I'm kind of underwhelmed by this JP Licks. Sure, it's got the same great flavors, and the same general toppings, but it's a different experience than the Newbury one. The ambiance is different (less cow, much more grass... I like grass as much as the rest of us, but I don't see why it should line the walls). What this one does have (that should help it more than hurt it) is vibrant local competition from places like Berryline. The Newbury one has a Starbucks to compete with, at best. If you're looking for good ice cream, it's here. I'm just a little wary of the place (maybe it just needs more time...)
(4)
Michelle M.

so much ice cream
(5)
Christina G.

I've tried most of the New England based ice cream companies around Boston. I'm pretty sure J.P licks is my favorite thanks to lots of variety in terms of frozen treats that they offer and the different flavors they come in. I've been to a few of the locations. They are all fun and service is always good, but what really matters is that the ice cream is consistently delicious.
(4)
Esther G.

Easily one of the best ice cream parlors I've ever been to. So good that I came here BEFORE I had dinner. Their flavors are unique yet delicious, although I'm always partial to the coffee oreo and pistachio. NOM. And really, how can you go wrong with a smiling cow?
(5)
Bridget B.

Ok, I'm sad to say I did not like Yogurt X, nor did any of the people I tried it with. That said, they get massive props for, you guessed it, disclosing their ingredients list. They literally cut out some packaging material that had the ingredients list on it and gave it to my husband. That pretty much all around rocks. Again, I've got my bone to pick with the invisible ingredients list from Berryline, and I admit that a lot of that caution stems from a) the fact I have massive food allergies and b) the whole pinkberry fiasco where it turned out the product they were selling wasn't even yogurt. Aside from not loving Yogurt X (but loving how forthcoming they were about the ingredients) I've always thought JP Licks was good, but Christina's will always have a stronger hold on my heart.
(4)
Ethan A.

Sorbet is what I came for, and I was mostly satisfied. Was glad to see seasonal flavors (margarita and a lemon hibiscus) but was out of the lemon. Settled for margarita, which was great. Factoring that it contained alcohol only makes it better. For a busy night though, they should have had more than three employees. They were not incredibly efficient, so perhaps someone should work that out. One employee was certainly stoned and messed up one of our orders, but was able to fix it easily enough.
(3)
Ted S.

da bomb! coffee oreo..cookie dough...sprinkles.. it's a pain that its so expensive - but in comparison to the other places out there, it's probaly about the same - plus - the guys behind the counter here are friendly and sometimes cute. Here's a hint: - go with a friend, but don't get two individual cups - get a size bigger than you want and split it. It's much cheaper that way - and to JP Licks: you better not get any more expensive because of this hint!
(5)
Serena W.

Thanks to my lactose intolerance, I'm limited to sorbets, most sherbets, and some frozen yogurts. Then I saw "DAIRY-FREE ICECREAM" with one flavor listed: lackey lemon. so that's what I got. except my friend's margarita sorbet was so much better than my lemon icecream, and I never have the luxury of eating icecream.
(4)
Alex S.

The coffee oreo is a must-have! If I have anything to look forward to in the future, it would be to try more of their amazing flavors of ice-cream...and then in the frozen yogurt version! The pricing is not too bad; they give you a lot more for a single cone than you would think.
(4)
Anthony L.

it's good ice cream, but not the best. i would say not even better than ben & jerrys. also was impressed how the 1 scoop small was huge and shareable!
(4)
Claudia H.

There is not really much to say about JP Licks that is not well known to anyone whose been in Boston for more than a few days. The Oreo ice cream is their signature flavor and it is excellent in all of its many varieties (mint oreo, coffee oreo, etc). I arguably like the oreo frozen yogurt more than the ice cream because the ice cream can be almost too creamy. In any case, JP Licks' oreo is far better than the Hydrox offered by Toscanini's. Some of the other flavors are a bit hit'or'miss. For example, I normally love the spicy "Mexican Chocolate" ice creams, but their Diablo Chocolate (one of their special flavors in February) actually burned my mouth -- a bit Willy Wonka-esque for my tastes. Other perks: Fun, local art-work (I first became acquainted with the charming SnugglePup project in the Cambridge shop flickr.com/photos/snugglâ€¦ ), the Brookline shop has practically the latest hours of any establishment in Coolidge Corner, and the original store in JP has an amazing fireplace that they get going around Halloween (on which they also out certificates for free cones to trick-or-treaters...or at least trick-or-treaters who are obviously younger than 18 :-P). They also make great ice-cream cakes, which you can order in advance in any flavor you like, or show up that day and get in...Oreo! Having celebrated most of my birthdays with Carvel ice-cream cakes, and dallied once or twice with Coldstone cakes, JP Licks really does surpass expectations.
(4)
Ani G.

I look back at this review and think it was pretty harsh after several years of frequenting this place. I still like Christina's better, but I like JP Licks a lot better than some of the other options in the area. The ice cream is always good - one of my favorites is the peach that they have during the summer months.
(4)
Vanessa K.

$1 coffee, how can you beat that! Actually it's $1.07 after tax, but still good. It was really tasty coffee too. Had a nice robust flavor, and not burnt at all. Didn't try the ice cream, but ordered cow paw, which is doggie ice cream for the dog. He seemed to enjoy it.
(5)
Sarah L.

Does Harvard Square REALLY need another small batch ice cream shop? Ok ok, I surrender. You don't have to twist MY arm. It's tasty! Does it stand out? Mneeehnot really. Got a freshly packed pint of mint chip and cake batter, and it was a hit all around. I liked - nay, loved - the slightly-softer-than-hardserve consistency. But there's nothing to draw me away from Herrell's, and nothing can stand in the way of Berryline. NB: I sampled the watermelon sorbet, because I thought that might showcase their creativity and excellence. The experience was less summery goodness and more like eating frozen watermelon flavored Lip Smackers a la fifth grade.
(3)
Jenna H.

I'll be honest, I don't go to JP Licks that often because it is against my principles to pay $5 for a small one topping ice cream, but when I'm really splurging there's almost nothing better. They have tons of different flavors, and also different types of ice cream; frozen yogurt, frozen yogurt made with splenda, "hard yogurt" (which I'm still not sure what that means), and they also have coffee and a decent pastry selection. The Cappuccino Crunch ice cream is my favorite!
(4)
Alana H.

I've been coming here for years. When I was in college this establishment wasn't here and I was a frequenter of the Newbury Street satellite. Because my friend who I was saying with lived close by this is the one we came too. I got a kiddie size of the maple buttah walnut and I enjoyed every single bite of it. It was sweet and creamy and the best thing to eat at the end of the night. I also like that they have lots of options from sorbet, yogurt, and regular ice cream. They also have doggie treats so that your dog can enjoy a night out for ice cream as well. Hands down my favorite ice cream shop in Boston.
(5)
Sophie L.

This place is awesome! I've only been once and it happened to be free scoop day for all students. Double awesome! The shop is small but has character and the staff are friendly. Even with a line, no one muttered nasty things under their breath when I asked to sample one (possibly two) flavors. The ice cream is fluffy but creamy and rich all at the same time. They've got the traditional flavors and throw in a few exciting ones every month or so. Delicious! I'm a fan.
(4)
Zinat M.

"Homemade" (well storemade), expensive, yummy ice cream located in hopping Harvard Square. Of course it's good.
(4)
Juli R.

Great Ice Cream, best I had in Boston. All three in my group loved this place! I would have to say the service is very slow, but still friendly.
(4)
Angela S.

SO TASTY! The ice cream is delicious, the smoothies are okayyyyy. Not exactly their strength. The cookies are also great. Even when it's really busy, the line moves really fast.
(4)
Cobra K.

6 dolla ice cream cone? sick.
(3)
Peter M.

It's scary how much I love this joint. I don't usually like ice cream but I go out of my way to get some and never regret it. The service is fast and the bounty of flavors is enough to please even the pickiest of ice cream eaters.
(5)
Felicity L.

Their coffee is the best and their El Diablo hot chocolate is heaven!!! I love their atmosphere as well!!!
(5)
andrej s.

Great ice cream, poor service. I loved their ice cream, but after two poor customer service experiences, I decided not to come back: First, I came in one night, right around closing time, craving ice cream. There were people in the store and the doors were open. I walked in but was told they're closed. I pointed out the doors were open and no closed sign was on the door, they just repeated it's closing time. I checked my watch and it was *exactly* closing time, which meant I had clearly walked in before, nonetheless they insisted they were closed and would not serve me. 2. Second time. My wife had their frequent buyer card. We stopped in for ice cream, and she wanted to claim her rewards points, but didn't have the card on her. She asked if they could look her up by name and/or driver's license or whatever, they said flatly - no. Didn't even make an effort to try and find some way to locate her. I'm sorry, JP Licks, but having good ice cream is just NOT good enough. Step up that service if you want to keep your customers!
(1)
Megan G.

Rum raisin ice cream. Awesome. Lots of froyo options next to the classic 'cream and coffees. Cozy shop. Delish.
(4)
Chloe C.

Fairly good ice cream, especially for a chain! I particularily liked the cowtracks and they have some really good seasonal flavors! Unfortunatley, I have to knock off two stars because of the service. A few times I went in and the employees seemed too distracted with their personal lives and company drama to get my order right. I found it pretty unprofessional that they were gossiping about fellow employees right in front of all their customers.
(3)
Jon L.

Huge scoops, so tasty and delicious. White coffee ice cream is just amazing!
(5)
Keith S.

80+ degrees out. My summertime meter screams for ice cream. the parking meter fiends (once called meter maids) are also screaming round Harvard Square with hot colored tix. Easy for me to take the T to Harvard square and grab some great JP licks - Love the pure chocolate ice cream - and pure vanilla or chocolate is alwasy the toughest test for so called home mades - These folks are ok. no funny aftertaste. just pure cream and chocolate. Also - this is one of the few places I'll order non chocolate and be happy - with the black raspberry - it screams summer. I scream, you scream, we all scream for Ice cream. Thank you.
(4)
Mo M.

Oh man. This place serves delicious sweet treats, and some are sooo yummy you'll hardly believe that they're fat-free. My vote is for the non-fat peanut butter soft ice cream with two scoops of Captain Crunch. Although it's a little pricey ($4.95) for a small cup with one topping, that's a-okay with me. What's also nice is that this location is fantastic for people watching, especially if you get a good seat with three of your pals in the front window. You can spend hours checking people out and rating whether they're cute or not while chowing down on some frozen dairy or non-d snacks. Go to JP Licks for a fun alternative to drinking booze.
(4)
Li S.

Great coffee. Side walk seat.
(4)
Enay V.

Service was STELLAR!!! As crowded as it was, they never lost their heads. Servingmany people at once can suck ass but this staff handled it well. I even didn't get any attitude when i asked for samples! Love it - even if there's a line, it moves wicked fast.
(4)
J M.

Some of the best ice cream I've ever had!
(5)
Matthew H.

One word: overrated. JP Licks is perfectly adequate ice-cream, but it never ceases to amaze me how wildly popular this place is. I've eaten here a number of times and have tried a number of flavors, and each time I felt that the ice cream was thoroughly average. The prices are not particularly cheap either, so why bother? There are many better places to get ice cream in Boston.
(3)
Brooke C.

We got there one summer night, and after us a ton of people walked in and a long line formed. As we sat down inside to enjoy our ice cream, while the line was still really long, we got kicked out! The guy that worked there just said to us "we are closing and you guys need to leave!" I've never been treated so rudely before and been kicked out of an ice cream shop. I was there with 2 aunts, my mom and 3 cousins. I think I'll go to the one on Newbury street instead from now on.
(1)
H S.

SO GOOD. Has to be the best ice cream place in the area if it sells ice cream, smoothies, coffee, and sorbet (some flavors with alcohol in it!). It smells so good when you walk inside. I tried the black raspberry, yumm.
(4)
Eric M.

Oreo cookie dough and pumpkin custard. Wow. And Yummy.
(5)
Elisabeth A.

Num!! Came here on a cold day, got ice cream, and sat by the window for a couple hours chatting with friends. Good place to hang and people watch. I love the fake grass walls!! And the ice cream, of course. I can't remember what I got, something with peanut butter, but I know I really enjoyed it :P
(4)
Natalie M.

There's no finer place for ice cream in the area than JP's. I love their seasonal varieties, and have always had a good experience there. The staff is also very efficient and nice. Love it!
(5)
clare m.

although their ice cream is excellent (el diablo is my favorite flavor), the harvard square jp licks is getting a single star for their terrible customer service. there is no reason i should have to wait 25 minutes to get a cup of coffee. i don't chalk this up to the abilities of their employees, who always seem very friendly when i'm there. i blame the structure of the store's staffing; why do they have the same person assigned to the registers who's also responsible for making all of the drink orders???? shits be crazy! i was also dismayed to see their recent attempt to compete with berryline by introducing "yogurt X." stick to ice cream, jp licks.
(1)
Cristian Y.

So today I decided to try JP Licks' ice cream. There were many interesting flavors, but I decided to have the Oreo Cakebatter ice-cream. It was awesome! However, I think it's a little bit expensive, $4...
(4)
Gigi B.

The Harvard Square JP Licks location is by far the smallest and always seems to be the busiest due to constant flow of tourists in Harvard Square. But the same amazing ice cream and service can be found at this JP Licks location.
(5)
mickey l.

We got JP Licks brought to us at home, a half gallon with both vanilla and chocolate. I have truly enjoyed the quality and subtle but rich flavors as I sit on my couch during a heat spell.
(4)
lucy l.

This place is all about ice cream but it caught on the tangy yogurt craze. So the dÃ©cor is cute cows everywhere. They had a teacup seat like Disneyland's Alice in Wonderland. They use a froyo called Frozen X Yogurt and it was on the nail. It tasted good! The toppings were all for ice cream. I picked the coconut because it was the only froyo friendly topping BUT I also asked to add a regular cone. The cone did it! It made it so much better that I think all froyo should have cones!
(5)
KebShi L.

black raspberry ice cream. do it.
(3)
T K.

I was a fan for a while. Then one day I got a bad batch of a Frappe and after that I feel like the taste of the ice cream just went down hill for me. I'm not a ice cream fan normally so I move on from it very quickly.
(3)
Ginnette P.

love the spinach and cheese croissants, black raspberry ice cream, great coffee and the manischewitz sorbet was delicious!
(5)
Stan B.

Place is great. I mean... I'm from a small town outside of Boston that has 2 ice cream places in town that make their own.. on site. But for the city I haven't found any place better than Licks. The portions are better than the competition down the road. The flavor is ahhhhmazing. Check it out.
(4)
Loren P.

Even though a lot of people think of JP Licks as just an ice cream shop, it is in fact way more. They have over 30 different brands of coffee, all fair trade. The coffee selection is really quite impressive and is actually pretty good. I had a small french vanilla, with yes sugar and cream. It was hot and had a good flavor to it. I bought a pack of Ethiopian coffee, to try something different. The atmosphere is very pleasant at everytime of day.
(4)
Doika P.

Average ice cream place. Decent selection. Small location and over crowded. Maybe I need to try more flavors but I did not see what all the fuss is about. I have been to much better ice cream parlors with better atmosphere, more room, more flavors, more elaborate sundaes, etc. Really more the for the Harvard student crowd.
(3)
Anne B.

Wow! Ice cream goodness. I was walking down the street and it just looked interesting. I hardly ever turn down ice cream, even on a full stomach. Anyway, I walked in and saw a large menu with plenty of ice cream/yogurt/drink options. I opted for the oreo cakebatter - great choice. For a small scoup with plenty of oreo pieces and only $4, its just good!
(4)
Kiki B.

omg omg omg. it is both the best and the worst possible news that there is now a jp here. the cake batter is the most amazing thing you've ever tasted, and then you try the oreo cake batter and the world is complete.
(5)
Clayton N.

The ice cream is great. But would it be too difficult for this shop to follow a few standard sanitation measures? Two times I've been in this shop, they've been scooping ice cream without gloves, and then handling money at the register. I've also seen employees sneezing around the ice cream, and one guy popping a piece of cone into his mouth and chewing it with his mouth wide open. Note to management: familiarize your employees with health department regs.
(2)
Resa W.

ugh. divinity!!!!
(4)
andrew g.

second only to bon bon in symphony. went here after touring harvard with a friend from out of town. it's got places to sit unlike bon bon and always has amazing flavors.
(4)
Jo B.

What's not to like about JP Licks? Good ice cream, somewhat unique selection of flavors and toppings and friendly service. My favorite flavor is the oreo cake batter ice cream. Don't know what it is, but whenever I'm craving ice cream, I instantly think of this on a waffle cone and want to head over to JP Licks. I only wish there was one closer to my house.
(4)
Dee C.

they have the best ice cream and yogurt ever!
(5)
Andrew K.

we were in town for some serious eating....from word of mouth we stumbled across an ice cream shop that has the decor of cows everywhere! from the looks of our first visit, there's always a line, and looks like it usually moves quickly!. with classic as well as inventive flavors....this is the destination if you're craving a cone or cup of ice cream on "1310 Massachusetts Ave.".... the toppings bar has just as much variety with an array of fruits, candies and other edible accessories.... the ice cream shop is small though, so it can be hard sometimes when it's busy to find a place to sit...(we sat outside of "au ban pain".) =x i'm not a big fan of frozen yogurt, but i tried their "yotango".....it was very good! the only problem was the center of it was all AIR! my friends had the coffee and rum raisin in a cup....when we were done with our yotango, i ran back for another cup of rum raisin, to share with someone sweet... i would definitely recommend this place to everyone!
(5)
Farrell C.

Yum! Yum! Low-cal peanut butter ice cream. Dreamy
(4)
Doreen X.

I'm s t r e s s e d, thus you'll find me here having d e s s e r t s. Specifically, I'll be downing oreo cake batter, the flavor I'm drawn to when alcohol is off the menu. JP's scoops are much better in a cone than a cup, probably because that reminds me of my long-gone nonchalance . . .
(3)
Jen H.

This is a cute spot to take a date, grab some ice cream, and then take a walk through Harvard Sq. However, if you opt to sit at a table (hey, maybe it's cold outside, or bad weather, or you just want to sit down and relax...) there are a decent amount of seats inside and then you get to enjoy the faux grass walls. The ice cream was quite tasty. Not someplace I'd go regularly (my waistline wouldn't like that too much, although my taste buds did put a good argument), but I was glad that my boyfriend suggested we stop here for something sweet after our dinner... JP Licks is a special treat that everyone should experience from time to time.
(4)
Veronica R.

Despite that it was snowing last time I went, I HAD to stop by. Being from California, it's not everyday I get the opportunity to experience such enticing ice cream. I dragged my sister and mom along. We were all shivering and NOT in the mood for ice cream. I was determined to go though. Thank goodness we did! Once we got over the cute faux grass & cow decor, we proceeded to the menu. Aside from more traditional flavors, they also have a selection of specialty ones. The Kahlua & Bailey's flavors were a hit with us coffee-lovers. Despite the weather, there was a steady flow of people going in for ice cream and coffee, and thankfully the heater was on to a good temperature so that we didn't freeze inside while eating. Will definitely drop by again when I hit the East Coast.
(4)
Jenn T.

This is a hotspot for all the college kids so it's really crowded here. I got a double scoop waffle cone and the homemade ice cream did not disappoint! I got Oreo which was delicious! The coffee flavor was a little too strong for my taste. Overall, a great ice cream shop with a local flavor.
(5)
Cindy H.

One of the ladies gave me generous samples. I ended up choosing banana oreo ice cream - I wish there was just a banana flavored ice cream because there was too much oreos.
(3)
Julie B.

Lots of flavors and toppings to choose from and they have hard yogurt which I loooove. Every time I end up here there's a huge line but it moves really quickly. The staff is really friendly and knows what they're doing when it comes to ice cream.
(4)
Robin G.

I only got a drink and a spinach and cheese croissant. The mocha latte was a little too much mocha and not enough latte so it was a little too sweet. The croissant was a little too doughy but I'd try the place again.
(3)
Rachael N.

Yumm! For a chain, this is a GOOD one! My favorite is coffee Oreo, but their soft and hard yogurts are also incredible! Milkshakes to die for!
(4)
Mike J.

In the heart of Harvard Square is a tasty ice creamery, granted it's a chain but ... they kept giving me free stuff just for signing up for the loyalty card ( free scoop, free coffee, etc. ). Some of the specialty monthly flavors were inventive and had some taste to them ( as opposed to most chain ice cream ) so that's a bonus. Too bad they don't have any stores in NY, though I'll be back when I'm in Boston next.
(4)
Chi I.

If you are craving both ice cream and coffee and happen to be in the Cambridge area in MA, go to JP Licks. It's the best of both worlds. I was there last June and craved both treats and ended up compromising by getting the 'coffee ice cream' (creative right?! ;-)) FYI - their single scoops are huge...they could almost pass for a double. The coffee ice cream hit the spot. I wish I had room to try their hot coffee drinks. Ah well, I guess I just have to go back soon to Cambridge to try it out. :-)
(4)
Emily H.

Scenario: 29 degrees Fahrenheit. My first visit to Boston, Haavaaad and Haavaaad Square. I'm dressed in a stolen green hoodie with felt teeth sewn at the opening, button eyes and felt spikes on the top. I'm a dragon, obviously. Its the day after Halloween, but everyone still humors me. Its almost snowing, but I'm a sucker for sorbet. Good thing. I came here twice in a weekend visit. The first love, Apple Sorbet. Bits of apple and apple skin with a touch of frost, like the first frozen applesauce of the winter season (?!?). The second whirlwind romance- Cranberry orange sorbet. Flecks of deep red, bursts of orange zest. So autumny yet still frozen. How does this work? Why do I keep on coming back for more? Dear GOD I'm SO COLD but this sorbet is SO GOOD.
(5)
Nan S.

I give this place 4 stars, not for their amazing ice-cream or price... but b/c it's a cool place to hang out, and it's open until 12am every night. Having said that, I'm not from the north, so I'm not used to ice-cream being so expensive and soft-serve being just as expensive... I don't understand what the difference is b/t vanilla soft-serve from McDonald's for one dollar and the same thing from here for 5 dollars (except for the atmosphere). I do like their interesting flavors of the month, though (eg. lavendar, hibiscus, assorted beer flavors, strawberry cheesecake, etc). Other than that, it is pretty average but very expensive.
(4)
Kaitlin C.

This is my new favorite frozen yogurt shop, I wish we could get one in CT. You just can't go wrong with the oatmeal cookie hard fro yo or the peanut butter chip hard fro yo, them combined is an outstanding combination. They are super friendly and welcoming there, you can try any flavor you wish! Definitely a must eat if you are visiting Boston.
(5)
Joseluis A.

i love oreo cookies i love coffee i love ice cream i fuckin love oreo & coffee ice cream could be cheaper... but i still paid for it mmm ice cream yeah
(3)
Amanda K.

It's not the best ice cream I've ever had, but it is always good. They have a lot of interesting flavors that my friends enjoy, but I'm pretty boring when it come to ice cream (I really only ever get chocolate). They have wafer cones which I really appreciate. There is never any place to sit, which is fine with me, but bothers some. They make a pretty decent shake as well.
(3)
Glenn G.

I love regular ice cream, which this place has plenty of, but just for the novelty, I tried their peanut butter hemp milk ice cream. Not only was it the best vegan ice cream I've ever tasted, it was among the best ice cream I ever tasted. My husband doesn't eat dairy and he had their soy chai flavor which was also excellent. A must stop in Cambridge!
(5)
Sara S.

I'm not ashamed to say that this is the best ice cream I have ever had. Yes, in my entire life, in any city, state, country. I like it that much. It's hard to believe it's a chain. I have kind of a sweet tooth, so my only complaint about this place is that it's addicting. But on a blistering day in the summer, nothing makes me feel so good as having oreo ice cream on a waffle cone from here. Happy 4th of July!
(5)
Mardget P.

I love you, JP Licks. I love you so much that my husband gave me a $100 Cow Card when I was pregnant last year, which meant ice cream every day for a month...and then a new Cow Card! Outstanding ice cream and remarkably unsurly hipsters working there who always give a little extra heft to each scoop. I credit coffee oreo and brownie batter with making me a happy pregnant lady and for my daughter being born so healthy. (Naysayers--try it first before you doubt.)
(5)
Rich H.

Nice spot for dessert.
(3)
Joel C.

Highly recommended by my Bostonian friends and so I decided to give it a scoop. Just so you know, I'm very picky about the quality of coffee beverages and so I apply the same judgmental and high-in-standard attitude to coffee ice-creams as well. So I ordered their coffee ice cream, tried it and I must say, I was impressed. A good combination of sweet, impressive taste of coffee authenticity, and richness in texture brings delight to my taste buds. I'm sure the other ice-cream flavors are good as well. The only downside is that it is quite pricey for ice-cream. I suggest you give it a try.
(4)
Nik B.

So rich. So fresh. So delicious. So tasty. So creamy. So smooth. So chunky. So heavenly. So affordable. So heavy. So unique. So diverse. So mouth-watering. So fulfilling. So satisfying. So let's go to JP Licks.
(5)
Chris M.

best ice cream in the boston area for sure. i've tried all the others (Tosci's, Christina's, Batch, etc.) and JP Licks has been consistently the best in my years in the area. the only reason it isn't 5 stars for me is that my favorite ice cream (Peanut Butter Cookie Dough) is only carried seasonally. this needs to be a permanent addition.
(4)
Jessica C.

It's TOO rich, TOO sweet!! Still yummy nevertheless, the service was quick, friendly, and helpful. I got the Oreo cake batter.. it tasted very good, but it was much too sweet for my taste, it was like sweet cream icecream with oreos. Luanne got the coffee oreo, it was the exact opposite, the coffee flavor was super strong, almost bitter. We got single scoops but realized we should have gone with the kids size! Luckily there were a few seats inside, we ended up chatting for a while and ended up only eating a few bites, but I'd definitely return to try the other flavor when I'm craving. I have to be super in the mood for icecream like that. I think i'll still be sticking to my pinkberry, yogurtland, red mango on a regular basis.
(3)
Oslo H.

Very happy they've introduced non-dairy ice creams, but it's unclear if they have refined sugar or not. I want a vegan sweet without refined sugar, so the sorbets are out - I'm hoping this gets clarified and they keep the vegan offerings! I'd be even happier if they introduced gluten-free cones, and replaced plastic spoons with something like 'ecotensils'...
(4)
Stephanie L.

With JP Licks around every corner and Bostonians eating their way through tubs..we couldn't leave without some of the goods. We were visiting Harvard and pretty thirsty, so of course, me being a lover of sorbet, I suggested some JP Licks! Lemon sorbet is the best for thirst quenching, so I was pretty excited to see they had Lemon Hibiscus sorbet on their menu. We asked for a taste, and it's pink on the spoon! For a second, I was confused, but after putting it in my mouth, we ordered a triple scoop of it and scarfed it down. It took us a while to decide, but we think the flowerlike things in the sorbet were actually dried smashed cranberries. Really great flavor with just the right amount of twist. Everyone really wanted to try the other flavors, but ended up passing. I can't report to you on other flavors, but on the basis of just this one...it's a winner
(5)
Jason W.

This store does homemade ice cream very well. What more do you want? The black raspberry was fantastic and the pistachio was subtle but still hit the spot. The available toppings are incredible, by the way - cappuccino chip bark, hot fudge, etc. The ice cream creations here are just wonderful. This store also makes coffee drinks, which pair nicely with the coffee. While the drink sare nothing amazing, they really complete some after-dinner dessert. The service is pretty quick, even on a Friday evening. Parking in nearby garages and this restaurants prime location in downtown Cambridge make coming back easy. Overall, a wonderful dessert place, even in the Boston winter!
(4)
Jenn Y.

Have yet to meet a flavor of theirs I don't like, personal favorites include coconut almond, maple butter, pistachio, white coffee, and cookie dough. Very generous portions, super nice staff, tasty frozen treats, what's not to love? Best part, you can mix and match flavors for any size, including the pints! They'll pack a new pint for you with multiple flavors so you can take it and secretly scarf down the entire thing in the comfort of your own home...um...not that I've done that recently or anything...
(4)
Daniel M.

El Diablo Hot chocolate. Thus far this is all I've had from this shop and it alone warrants four stars. It is smack-your-momma good. Cinnamony and with a solid punch from the cayenne to round out the flavor this alone is worth a visit. The shop itself looks like the bastard child of and IKEA and Urban Outfitters and smells a little weird (not dirty...just weird) but if you're just picking up some of their fantastic hot chocolate to go that matters not, right?
(4)
Miriam L.

Peanut butter soft serve? *swoon* Peanut butter and oreo cookie swirl soft serve? *double swoon* That is all.
(4)
Patrick C.

The BEST ice cream and frozen yogurt I have ever tasted. The line moves extremely quickly and the service/cleanliness is always consistently wonderful. I don't have anything else to say, and that's a first!
(5)
Julia M.

I first heard of JP Licks before I even moved to Boston. A friend who had lived here gave me a gift card as a welcome present. I think I went 3 times in my first week alone and often have cravings. Lots of fun flavors, yet they always have plenty of "classics," which is a good thing. I generally stick to the oreo/cookie variety and after 2 years have yet to be disappointed. This is esp important to me because I always go for frozen yogurt since I can't eat ice cream, and so many specialty ice cream stores totally neglect the yogurt. Not JP Licks! Also, the store may feel crowded, but the staff is really good at moving people along and getting them their dessert. This is really important on a hot day, or just in general if you're impatient like me. Big fan!
(4)
Ken M.

You can't go wrong with super premium ice cream. Kitchy decor, friendly staff. Always a long line but it moves fast. Could use some more seating, but that would be darn near impossible. Try the peanut butter hard yogurt with hot fudge.
(5)
Liz S.

This might be the most delicious ice cream I've ever, ever had. It's a close call between JP Licks and Toscininis for the best ice cream in Boston. SO, so, so good.
(5)
Sarah R.

JP Licks is by far the best ice cream shop I've ever been to. My boyfriend and I went one day when we were having a major dessert craving. We ordered the Brownie Ala Mode Sundae with 2 large brownies, 2 scoops of chocolate ice cream, 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream, reeses peanut butter cups, heath bar, & chocolate chips w/chocolate sauce on top. We almost had a heart attack after eating the whole thing, but we enjoyed every bite of it. The portions are very generous compared to other places like Cold Stone. Indulge!
(5)
Lauren G.

JP Licks has a great variety of ice cream (love the monthly special flavors)... cute place - but a little pricy! Just a yummy ice cream place. Doesn't feel too "chainy" especially love the cow spot tables! The monthly special flavors keeps it interesting and they let you taste multiple flavors. The only thing is the price... $4 is a little much given that you can get a whole pint of Ben and Jerry's at CVS for the same price!
(4)
Oolong T.

We were stuffed from dinner but decided to get ice cream on our way to the Harvard Square T station. It was a freakishly cold night (in April) and I was the only one jittering my teeth off in the weather. What better idea than to stuff your face with homemade ice cream? You can really taste the creamy cream in their ice cream. I was also happy pappy that their portions was so big! We were all cold, dazed, and trying to not hit each other w/ our spoons while walking and sharing our cups. I wish I was there right now to try their seasonal pumpkin flavors!
(4)
Ligaya T.

Jumping right in, I like the grass. I don't go many places where I want to rub the walls. Oh come on, just do it! Feels good, right? Anyway, they do product here pretty darn good. Hard packed ice cream with just the right amount of tongue give. Big chunks of oreo, pleasant coffee bitterness. It's a flavor I can't get enough of. Big menus are eye candy for those obsessed with new and exotic. Me, I'll take a tried-and true. And they wear uniforms, a guarantee it'll taste the same each and every time. Still there are some minuses: disappearing ingredients, absent workers. Who took the malt?! Chocolates frappes will never be so plain. There's a good chance the tables outside will be full, so watch for the no. 1 bus crossing the street and slip into Harvard yard. Keep on for a bit and you'll find a cluster of outdoor tables neglected by the kids. They really do have greener grass on this side, the bastards.
(4)
Nuri K.

From its kitschy-sexy-cool new wave decor to the creamy, home-churned ice creams and frozen yogurts, JP Licks is a wonderful respite from the muggy Cambridge gloom. The ice creams' consistency straddles some place in between the super-dense, super-premium ice creams and the airier, more old-fashioned scoops. Sizable portions and a modern yet comfortable atmosphere should draw the regulars and still more tourists. Of the flavors we sampled, my favorites were the seasonal cucumber ice cream and peanut butter frozen yogurt. The latter's texture was sublime-- creamy without being cloyingly sweet or sticky-- and I wouldn't miss the fat if this treat were to be made regularly available to me. The cucumber ice cream was a surprise and a good one at that; it's rare these days to be tantalized by completely new gastronomic experiences, and what makes this flavor sing is the reconciliation of said new sensations with the familiar. The cool grassiness of cucumber is mellowed out by its melony notes in this stunner, married with the richness of ice cream, ought to present the cucumber in a way that most of us have not yet encountered. A bit disappointing was the peach ice cream, which didn't take advantage of the tart juiciness of the peaches and focused on buttery-sweet one-dimensionality. I felt additionally that all of the ice creams could have used a pinch of salt to brighten things up a bit. But JP Licks is still a winning place to cool down and indulge your sweet tooth.
(4)
Leighann F.

It's official. The Harvard Square frozen treat market is now fully saturated. There is no more room (never mind a need) for another frozen yogurt/ice cream/ frozen non-dairy/frozen anything anywhere in this Square. That's not to say I am not pleased about it. I am just saying...enough is enough. Normally I would curse silently about another chain calling Harvard Square home, but in the case of JP Licks, I'll let it slide. The business is locally owned and operated, so it kind of negates the whole chain thing. As does deliciousness. As does soft-serve ice cream that tastes like pureed oreos. They have flavor variety going for them (but so do other local competitors), as well as friendly service and a newly established proximity to my home. There is few pleasure more satisfying than devouring a soft-serve cone on my walk home from the Square. I am in the Square a lot (which means LOTS of walks home) and plan on taste-testing quite a few of their flavors (cow tracks, black raspberry, white coffee) before the acceptable eating-ice-cream-while-walking-out-doors season is over. As of today, I got plenty of time!
(3)
Tara K.

Boyfriend had peanut butter oreo, which was intensely flavored. I ordered a special -- butter pecan, which I was disappointed by. The pecans were stale and some even tasted rancid! I wouldn't go back and stand in line for this ice cream again.
(2)
Daniel S.

I seem to have a knack for having bad first experiences anytime I try some place new. Well, after my first JP Licks fiasco, it is now my go-to Oreo ice cream place. They sure try to be all things to all people -- coffee, baked goods, yogurt, smoothies, pies... I just stick with the ice cream, and always remember to bring my Cow Card to rack up rewards points. The monthly ice cream specials, especially the seasonal selections, are often fun as well.
(5)
Courtney H.

Let me tell you, internet, you have no idea how happy I am that there is a JP Lick's in Harvard Square. They have the best soft-serve frozen yogurt I've ever eaten. The oreo cake batter ice cream is divine. This JP Lick's isn't very big, but I tend to eat my ice cream on the go, so it's no big deal to me.
(5)
Jess L.

wide selection, fast service. A little pricey, but if you're like me, you'll pay for good ice cream - no matter the season!
(4)
Richard S.

Came here for a quick pre-dinner treat. Quick in, quick out. I got the Coffee Oreo and he piled on a gimongous scoop for me in a cone. It was so delicious - maybe because it was really warm in the shop. The ice cream was melting all over my hand before I could lick all the sides in time. I would recommend eating this AFTER dinner though because it spoiled my appetite a bit, which is pretty rare.
(4)
J T.

JP Licks has a prominent location on Mass Ave in Cambridge. The classic black wood decor accented with neon green 'grass' on the walls is striking, especially at night. As for the ice cream, i got the mint oreo. It was good, rich, creamy, sweet. But $4.25 for a single scoop in a cup is a little steep. So four stars instead of five.
(4)
John W.

How many different places can you get ice cream or fro-yo in Harvard Square? Herrell's, Berryline, Lizzy's, etc. Now JP Licks has thrown their proverbial hat into the ring. Opened where Toscanini's Ice Cream once stood, this location offers the expected wide variety of rich, creamy homemade flavors. I am a fan of their season flavors like cucumber and tabasco. And their coffee ice cream is tops.
(4)
Barney B.

Toscanini's old H2 joint is now a JP Licks - I can't complain. Don't get me wrong, I love me some Taxesnono (I mean Toscanini) ice cream, but when I am as fat and lazy as I am, sometimes convenience and soft-serve froyo options win out. and H2 has it's own choices - this new place, Lizzy's, Herrell's, Berryline.....and still the coffee/oreo froyo is my go to. yeah, sometimes I suck it up and go for the more delectable real stuff - but when that swirl of lofat chemically-enhanced numminess hits my spoon, I know a big part of me is home. that big part also made me need a new belt this month. such is life.
(4)
Elsa S.

JP Licks is delicious!!! Worth the money and the calories :-) and very generous portions. ***Recommendations*** *Peanut butter cookie* Soooo good! Peanut butter ice cream with soft and flavorful chocolate cookie bits...delicious!!! *Brownie batter*... Equally as tasty!! Great flavor and chunks of brownie.
(5)
Anchisa P.

Pretty good ice cream. Particularly like their ice cream cake.
(4)
Margarette N.

JP Licks ("J - Plicks" as it is endearingly referred to at times) is a classic Bostonian ice creamery. Personally, between Coldstone, Ben & Jerrys, and here, its sort of all the same. Lots of flavors, ice cream that hits the spot, but dear god don't tell me how many calories are in it. I'll never turn it down though. This is more of a "4 stars because I love ice cream" rather than "4 stars because I love JP Licks"
(4)
Lauren L.

This may be the best ice cream I've ever had! I'm not normally a big ice cream person - most brands, from ben and jerry's to fancy gelato don't really do it for me. This place needs 5+ stars for how good the ice cream is. I've also had trouble with dairy as I've gotten older, but this place makes dairy free/lactose free ice cream that is totally indistinguishable from the original. I had coconut chocolate dairy free and it rocked my world :) I took away a single star, though, because they run out of the popular flavors really quickly (including the dairy free) so half the times I go here I can't get what I wanted. They are really popular and busy, so hopefully in the future they make more/keep more in stock for the big lines during the summer. Don't worry though - the lines go quick so you're usually out in 10 minutes or so. Definitely a place I recommend!
(4)
Naureen R.

Oh. My. God. The Peanut Butter Cookies n Cream Get it now and bring me some. I know my ice cream and while the wait is long and it is kind of pricey...it is absolutely deeeelish and the small size will be more than enough for an incredibly fulfilling dessert.
(5)
Adam S.

After driving around MIT's part of Cambridge for Toscanini's, we couldn't find any non-metered parking, so we decided to skip at and go to JP Lick's. Parking was much easier as we found a gated lot about 5 minutes away. When we walked in, the place was packed. Probably 20 people in line in the middle of the day in the summer. I got a scoop of some peanut butter cup ice cream (can't remember the exact name). We sat down inside to eat as we had been walking all day. The ice cream really hit the spot. Super creamy and delicious. Really good ice cream. Not exceptionally amazing, but really really good. This could partly be my fault since I didn't order anything crazy. The door kept squeaking every time someone opened it which was a little annoying, though. The gentleman serving me was really pleasant and efficient. I'd have no problem coming back if I'm in the area.
(4)
Deb M.

What a great find in Harvard Square. We were on a walking tour and the guide pointed this place out as being a small business owned shop, which is always nice to support. The lady, who I'm assuming was the owner was very friendly and gave a few samples as we made our decisions. I went with maple butter walnut and it was just the perfect amount of sweetness. I had dark chocolate chips added and that was the perfect combination! There were several add in options. They also have plenty of beverage choices. Bathrooms, indoor and outdoor tables and air conditioning in case you need to get away from the heat, as we did. Enjoy the wonderful flavor creations in a cone or cup!
(4)
Richard G.

Great ice cream at a reasonable price. The peanut butter cookies and cream along with the rockyer road were awesome. Best ice cream that I've had in the Boston area.
(4)
Diana N.

My cousin told me we definitely had to stop by JP Licks because one of her friends highly recommended it. And I must say, her friend was absolutely right and I thank her for that (thank you whoever you are!!!). Her friend recommended the COCONUT ALMOND CHIP, which my cousin tasted and shared with me on a tasting spoon. For me, it was love-at-first-lick. I knew right at that moment that there would be no other ice-cream flavor that would satisfy my very needs at that moment, so I didn't bother tasting any other. Being a huge coconut fan, the COCONUT ALMOND CHIP, had my two other loves, almonds and chocolate chip bits. It was a like a four-way affair when it came to all the different flavors that bonded so well together that those different ingredients were a definite match made in heaven. I decided to order the one scoop in a WAFFLE CONE, but upon visually seeing the one scoop, decided it was not visually appealing enough for me and my soon-to-be flavor relationship, so I changed it up to two scoops and I was not disappointed at all. I licked those scoops with grace and temptation from the beginning, all the way to the end. Oh how I wish there was a JP Licks in Los Angeles! Come on over! You guys will do so well over here because it is always sunny and hot in good old Southern California!
(5)
Erin M.

One thing I try in every city is ice cream. From Morocco to Massachussetts, I've delighted in sampling ice cream this summer. JP Licks is the clear winner this summer. I was glad we waited until the last day of the week we were staying in Cambridge to stop by, or I would have gone there every day! Their Peanut Butter Oreo ice cream was rich, creamy and packed with flavor. Other reasons to love JP Licks are the variety of ice cream choices, the variety of ways to enjoy your ice cream (waffle cones, cups of all sizes, etc), the cute shop atmosphere and the speedy and sweet service. We will be back!
(5)
Jane L.

I am not a ice cream lover but JP Licks is one of my few favorite ice cream places in Boston area. I was visiting Harvard as a tourist. I saw a long line from this ice cream place. Instantly, I knew that I needed to try their ice cream. Again, ice cream is not my thing so usually I don't really enjoy eating it. BUT, this place is good. Also you can try different flavors before you order, which reduces the risk substantially of ordering bad flavors. It seems that there are multiple locations of JP Licks (and I learns that JP means Jamaica Plain). I look forward to going back soon.
(4)
Klim K.

Delicious and intricate flavors with outdoor seating right outside of Harvard... Not too shabby.
(4)
Alexandra M.

HUGE LINE. Not sure what was going on, because after a certain point the line started to move really fast and when I got to order it was fast and when I got to pay it was fast....I wish people would have let me go around them but there was no room! Put some signs up or tell people who are waiting for their ice cream to let others pass! great flavors and they give you a lot more than what they say so maybe get a size smaller.
(3)
XB S.

This little place was packed! Service was great. I accidentally dropped my cone on my way to the cash register. They were nice enough to to give me a new one. Awesome flavors!
(4)
Laura D.

I stopped by after free cone day at Ben & Jerry's yesterday because who can eat only a small scoop of ice cream?? I used to complain about a lack of chocolate-based froyo options but someone told me that the Cookies & Cream flavor at JP Licks is actually chocolate based, so I considered getting that when I saw "Chocolate Chocolate Chip" -- had never seen it before (possibly a limited time flavor?) and it sounded perfect! I went with a small for $4.49--and I noticed immediately that there was freezer burn on some of it. Very unappealing... After trying it I immediately regretted not getting kiddie size. The froyo was way too rich. It tasted almost like hot fudge, which got sickening quickly. The chocolate chips were pleasantly uniformly bar shaped, but the flavor was similarly too rich to really be enjoyable. I've unfortunately yet to find a flavor I've liked at JP Licks, and for the price I really don't think it's worth it...
(2)
Monica L.

good location, close to train station and Haward university. The strawberry ice-cream is pretty good, and the serve recommend the cookie and cream (not bad). The cashier is friendly by the way.
(4)
Sara S.

I've had a disappointing experience 3 out of the 4 times I have been to this particular jp licks. All have been based on poor customer service. The first time I came here I ordered a medium with three flavors: peanut butter chip, chocolate chip cookie and peanut butter cookies and cream. The employee put a small amount of peanut butter chip in the bottom and chocolate chip cookie hard yogurt on top. After I paid I asked her again if the peanut butter cookies and cream flavor was there. It felt hollow and I could not see it. She assured me she remembered it. After I drove off and finished the top layer I was so upset to see she had not left me peanut butter cookies and cream. She had left the spot for it empty. I felt so gipped. The next disappointing experience was on my birthday. The employee who helped me was a manly looking female. She was irritated that I wanted to sample two flavors and she really had a bad attitude. I was clear that she hated working there. I ordered a large and it honestly looked like a small. It was only two scoops. What a way to disappoint a person on their birthday! Tonight was the final straw. I checked the soft yogurt calendar on their website and I was extremely happy to see my favorite flavor, soft chocolate chip cookie yogurt was back today. I walked in and they did not have it. I asked the employee about it and she said they never have it. They only have it in hard yogurt form. I told her their website had it posted as a flavor of the week and she was clueless. I left super disappointed and empty handed. It's a shame the customer service is so poor here because I live very close and I love ice cream and frozen yogurt. I will go out of my way to eat at other locations that hopefully have better customer relations. I'm giving 3 stars instead of two because their product does taste good.
(3)
Suji K.

Good ice cream. Cute shop. I appreciate the extensive flavors and drink menu. I took Yelpers' reccommendation on the Cookies n Cake Batter flavor since I love both Cookies n cream and cake batter ice cream flavors. I was a little dissappointed. The "cake batter" flavor component was barely present, and when I did catch it, the flavor reminded me of instant vanilla pudding mix. Like, you know, the powdered stuff? The ice cream itself is good, no complaints. I just kinda hoped for more. But I bump this up to 4 stars for the interior and what they've got goin on on the menu. The place was packed too, which indicates something. Also. The sell a tiny cup size that I very much appreciated. Its not often ice cream shops sell a size in the middle of a taste and a small [that ends up being more like a medium].
(4)
Ashley C.

LOVED THIS PLACE! Food: There were so many unique flavors on there menu... I couldn't decide on what to get! I ended up ordering a maple butter walnut in a white chocolate covered cone and it was SOOO GOOOD!! Their one scoop was a pretty big serving as well. Service: The worker that were very nice and patient! I sampled four flavors before I decided on what I wanted and they didn't give an attitude or anything. Ambiance: It's a cute little spot. It's a nice stroll around the area if you want to walk while eating :) Definitely coming here again! Whether it's snowing or sunny out, a scoop from JP Licks will always be good.
(5)
Kevin J.

Icecream: 4/5 Stars Service: 5/5 Stars JP Licks has some great icecream and an amazing location. During summertime it's great to get a cup and then either walk to the yard or just sit in the patio. Most recently, I came to buy an icecream cake for a friend's birthday and they have a great selection of ice cream cakes (Tiramisu!) at very reasonable prices and in many different sizes. Everyone really enjoyed it, and it was definitely quite fresh - they also helped to put signage on top.
(4)
Christina V.

Ice cream = 4.5 stars Service = 2 stars Stopped in late last night craving something sweet. There were probably half a dozen people in front of us and 1 person working! The line moved unreasonably slow. After he handed us our ice cream he asked if we were in a rush. He was going to scoop the next person's before cashing us out! I said we were - had to get outta there at that point. They did have a great selection of flavors. I got a cup of half Banana Cookies and Cream & half Salty Caramel. Both were excellent. It's a little pricey but most ice cream places are these days. May be back if I'm in Harvard but there are so many other options in the area.
(3)
Isabella C.

Ice cream is one of those things where it's generally good but it's hard to find a place that's absolutely outstanding. JP Licks is one of those good places. I'd give it 3 stars for the ice cream itself -- especially considering it's on the pricier end -- but 4 stars because of the atmosphere. The staff are great about letting you enjoy your ice cream slowly and the store is a lovely place to sit and catch up with friends. There are some good flavors that circulate through and I'd recommend asking for a sample before you commit to one flavor!
(4)
Emily W.

Obviously I came here after reading about it on Buzzfeed as one of the Top Ice Cream places I must visit. Lol, don't trust buzzfeed on this seriously. Don't. The ice cream isn't that wonderful but their smoothies are addicting. The first time I came here I got their coffee ice cream. It was very creamy and tasted like someone spend a lot of time making it with their hands. Aka I can taste the homemade-ness of the ice cream. The second time I came I avoided the ice cream and went for a mango yogurt smoothie. Oh my goodness I couldn't stop drinking it. I saw them making it and it's basically fresh mangos with frozen yogurt. One of the best smoothies I've had. Basically, doesn't live up to the hype considering it made it to Buzzfeed. I see several people mixing their ice cream with their coffees so maybe I'll try that next time.
(3)
Christina M.

From California, this is the best ice cream I've ever had!!!! No joke. The ice cream is so soft and very rich in flavor. It was perfect!
(5)
Victoria O.

AMAZING! They have a blackboard with tons of flavors; seasonal flavors, specialty flavors and the good old original flavors too. Even if your full from lunch or dinner, they have a kiddie cup, with just enough for a quick taste. It is well worth the stop. Be prepared for a bit of a line though. Highly recommend the Coconut Almond Chip ice cream and Cookies and Cream soft serve!! Will definitely make sure to stop by again the next time we are in town.
(5)
Melissa T.

This is probably the creamiest ice cream I've ever tasted!! I'm from New York, so we don't have JP Licks, but I wish we did! I tried the cookies & cake batter flavor. It was delicious. They also have flavors with alcohol in it, very interesting. Definitely need to stop here if you're visiting Boston.
(5)
Joyce L.

I walked right past all the froyo, yogurtland, pinkberry, *insert name of every frozen yogurt place you've ever seen*, in harvard square and walked into JP licks because I was craving all the creaminess and calories of REAL ICE CREAM. Oh, is it 9 degrees out? Perfect weather for ice cream! The girl who was taking our order was so blunt, I loved her. There were many unique flavors on the menu that I didn't know what to choose. I asked her how the grapefruit sorbet was and she replied with, "to be honest, I don't like it that much. Do you want to order that?"; I decided to go with pistachio instead. There were a chock full of pistachios in it, even in my tiny kiddie size cup and I found it so interesting that it was white & not the usual light green color. Minus one star because my kiddie's cup was the size of a sample size cup, but came out to be almost $4... that's equivalent to a bucket full of ice cream at stop&shop. So, why the heck did you buy the kiddie size when you're 24 years old, Joyce? Because I think small sized things taste better, okay?? Let's end with this: I am so thankful that there is a place in Harvard Square that is not afraid to serve LEGIT ICE CREAM during this winter spell. Thank you, JP Licks, for staying open and for making my tummy happy. #junoaintgotnothinonus
(4)
Denise A.

I scream for ice cream. I'm always satisfied when I eat here. They keep the store warm enough in the winter for you to comfortably enjoy your ice cream. So warm, in fact, that sometimes I'll opt for something more summery like a sorbet. They've got rotating seasonal flavors including some boozy ones (aw yeah). One of my favorites is maple walnut. So bright and fresh! But I've had everything. Their mint chip is refreshing as well. Recently I had their seasonal cherry-vanilla chip: tastes like the maraschino cherry liquid and vanilla blends I used to make as a child (and...ok yeah, last night too). I'm not the world's biggest coffee fan but the tastes I've had of capuccino crunch or their coffee ice cream have been tasty. And I've been informed by those who purchased these coffe-flavored 'creams that they would like their ice cream back now so they can eat it, thankyouverymuch.
(4)
Musicsphere O.

Very good. Creamy and flavor is there. Cookie dough, cookies in cake batter and maple buttah walnut. Friendly customer service.
(5)
Andrew Q.

A lactose-intolerant person reviewing ice cream? I'm sure this'll go well. Not a fan of their lactose-free offering, for some odd reason. I've never been a fan of the sickly sweet taste of diet soda, and JP Licks' lactose-free Madagascar Vanilla was similar. Too much weird sweetness. Also, I wish JP Licks had more seating, but that's probably a silly request for an ice cream store.
(3)
Bhavin P.

Really good ice cream near Harvard old campus. Good flavors, fast service and nice outdoor seating.
(4)
Margaret V.

Even with the incredible variety of flavors, I was only impressed by one - the Peanut Butter Oreo. I topped it off with some mini peanut butter cups. We tried many of their flavors, but none stood out and some tasted slightly artificial. I would only go here for the Peanut Butter Oreo ice cream, it was good on a hot day, but other than that I'm not coming back.
(3)
Lucius M.

I'm not prone to hyperbole, but the banana ice cream may have saved my life on a 90Â° degree day.
(5)
Connie L.

I usually don't get pistachio ice cream... but I sampled it and liked it so I went for it! It had lots and lots and lots of pistachio.. so if you're into pistachio, then go for it!
(4)
Anurag P.

Fun place, great flavors. Seasonal flavors for the Fall were delicious. Will come back again.
(4)
Lisa D.

I'm visiting Boston for the summer and tried JP Licks for the first time today. Was very impressed! Their "butter almond" was one of the flavor of the months (June) and exactly what I've been looking for - creamy, buttery, with almond chunks. I'll be coming back for sure to try more flavors. A bit pricey as others have mentioned but otherwise solid ice cream.
(4)
Lola G.

Delicious assortment of ice creams, hard and soft frozen yogurts, and sorbets. This place also opens at 8am (at least on Sun). Awesome staff that don't rush you and are friendly.
(5)
Mike C.

The ice cream here is pretty good. The biggest strength though is the large varieties of flavors and different types of things you can get. The best flavor I've tried is the excellent Peanut Butter Oreo, a great combo that you don't see nearly often enough. You can also get dairy free flavors if you are unlucky enough to need that, or frozen yogurt for a lighter choice. The ice cream here isn't particularly memorable. It has a decent texture, and like all ice cream, tastes good, but it's nothing I would really feel the need to have again. The biggest weakness here is the always-present huge line, filled with families and little children and said families allowing their children to sample every single flavor. This just about makes it not worth it for a scoop of ice cream here. I would rather go to Toscanini's for superior ice cream in the future.
(3)
Marilyn C.

JP Licks is some good ice cream. I actually usually get the hard yogurt - peanut butter chocolate or mint chip. The last time I was there I tried one of the seasonal flavors - white coffee - it was pretty delicious. This location tends to be pretty busy, especially when the weather is nice. There are a few outdoor tables. The sizes are pretty generous. Definitely worth a stop in.
(4)
Christine L.

Was in the Boston area for a wedding and had to stop by Le's for some perfect hangover food. On the way there, the BF and I saw JP Licks and I knew we had to go there since I had heard raving reviews of this place. We only had one hour parking, so we slurped down our pho noodles, took a brisk stroll around Harvard Square, and rushed to JP Licks to make it before our meter ran out. It was worth the stress. Although I was overwhelmed by the amount of flavors, the employees were patient and quick to serve. I opted for the classic cookies and cream and strawberry. First bite....and I was in ice cream heaven. I think the cookies and cream is probably one of the best I've had - and I've had my fair share of ice cream. Ran back to the meter and had 3 minutes to spare! Perfect weather, perfect ice cream, and no parking ticket equaled a great experience.
(5)
Dominique L.

JP Licks is a Harvard dessert staple Relatively accommodating and a bit "chain"-y/touristy, JP Licks is a solid choice if one is craving hard or soft serve ice cream. The staff is always willing to let you try their regularly rotating flavors. The ice cream flavors are usually delicious and the large number of flavors they offer ensures that you can leave with your specific craving satisfied. Their Nutrasweet soft serve leaves a bit to be desired in terms of flavor - an understandable comprise considering the reduced sugar content - but leaves a bad taste in one's mouth. For an ice cream chain, their coffee (hot or iced) is surprisingly delicious and flavorful. Seating is limited and usually occupied during peak times, but if you happen to snag the window seats facing Mass Ave you can enjoy a lovely round of people watching with your dessert. The only thing restrictive about JP Licks is their pricing, which is out of control given that their ice cream is just plain ice cream. For the price, the value of the ice cream should really be better, or prices should be lowered. That being said, the prices are probably where they are because of the tourists in Harvard Square who frequent it.
(4)
Rachel M.

They have delicious pastries and very friendly staff! Decent prices. I would have ordered yogurt but it's pouring rain outside and so we got a warm brownie instead :)
(5)
Minh C.

I had the oatmeal hard yogurt. It was good! It's not a flavor I would normally get, as I tend to lean towards things that sound less healthy (cough cough salty caramel cough), but my friend recommended it. I noticed a couple of their cakes on displayed, and hope to get a chance to try them out one of these days :D
(4)
Dan C.

This JP Licks is wedged into a tiny storefront in Harvard Square. I went here on a warm summer evening and it was jamming inside. The line was big, but moved quickly. I had the mint cookies and cream ice cream in a cup. It was very good. I chose not to splurge on a sundae this time, but they pretty good hot fudge and whipped cream if you are looking to go all out. I prefer Cold Stone to JP Licks, but JP is very good and a solid go-to spot for ice cream in Harvard Square.
(3)
Max M.

Best ice cream in the square with an assortment of tasty flavors you won't find anywhere else. They also have warm drinks you can get to take care of any brain freeze. The place can be packed even during Boston's formidable winters, a testament to JP licks top notch ice cream and friendly service.
(5)
Natalie D.

I got the cookies and cake batter twice at this location and each time it was an ice cream dream come true. So sweet and creamy! The line is usually long but it moves fast. Awesome ice cream! Service could be a tad happier -I mean they are selling ice cream after all.
(5)
Mark T.

I would visit this place much more often, but what keeps me from returning regularly are the extremely high prices here. If they did not have outstanding ice cream I would be here much more. A coffee lover, I get the Cappuccino Crunch ice cream every time. It has a great balance of sweetness, crunch, coffee flavor, and creaminess. I also have had the opportunity to try the Rum Raisin. Also very good, just not my cup of tea (or rather ice cream) I cannot speak for toppings or coffees, as I have not had them, yet. It is the prices that cost this place a star. While I have often just eaten lunch, and could not fit a small size into me, if you have space inside you, and are not a small child, at least get the small. It contains at least double the kiddie size for nowhere near double the price. For perspective: The kiddie size contains a little more than a large shot glass.
(4)
Michelle A.

Get your JP Licked in the Square. Worth the price. Worth the line. Worth the atmosphere. WORTH IT!
(4)
Paris G.

Ice cream is the bomb!! Nice employees, creating a lively and comfortable vibe. Always crowded because of the popularity, that is much deserved. Chocolate ice cream was great, I'm sure the other flavor a are just as delicious.
(5)
Ling H.

10PM 1/8/14. Ordered a fudge brownie. Service was very poor. Server handed me my dessert and I asked her how much it was. She said "I don't know" in a monotonous voice as if she didn't want to be there. I walked to the register and she told me the amount in the same tone. After I paid, I think she mumbled "Thank you have a good night". Couldn't really make out what she said. I wanted to give her a tip at first cuz she was the only one working, but not with that bad attitude and service :T Kind of ruined my experience here at JP Licks. I wouldn't come back.
(1)
Roy L.

It looks like ice cream, smells like ice cream, feels like ice cream, and looks like ice cream; MUST BE ICE CREAM. It's advertised as ice cream, but I swear, the consistency was more like gelato. It was so creamy and perfectly balance of sweet. And it also must be cause we're in 'Murica, but the portions were ginormous, fit for 6' 5" sumo wrestlers or someone that's itching for diabetes. We got a medium, cause ya'know I'm not super fat, and they put a half a pint of ice cream into a cup. CRAZY! The medium ran me about $5.50, which is pricey, but I was expecting Ben & Jerry's quality ice cream. PROTIP: There's a bathroom in the back if you're wandering around Harvard Square. Pros: Delicious ice cream, HUGE portions Cons: Pricey
(5)
Lauren B.

With other better ice cream shops around (Toscanini's) and the fact that this place is over-priced, it gets a meh. Yea, ice cream in general is tasty, but this place isn't doing anything particularly special or creative, and they're charging you nearly $5 a scoop (and almost $7 for a milkshake which is kinda ridiculous). I had heard that this place was in the running for best ice cream in Boston, but I whole-heartedly disagree. Toscanini's is cheaper ($6 for a full hand-packed pint) and has WAY more interesting and adventurous flavors/textures/etc.
(3)
Sandy P.

I love, love, love this place! I'm not from the area so had no idea what they had to offer vegans. Went in with my cousin who wanted hot chocolate, and we ended up getting ice cream lol. Walked in and it was Christmas morning... vegan ice cream?!?! You know that made my night!
(5)
Elyssa J.

OMG this ice cream is heaven. A bunch of us stopped in late at night. As someone who is pretty lactose intolerant -I was happy to see some dairy free options. There are fruity flavors, a vanillia and a cookies&creme/hemp combo. The barista assured me that the c&C/hemp combo was her favorite so after a sample, I ordered some with gummy bears. It was super rich and creamy without being overbearing and heavy. I gave all of my curious teammates a taste and they all agreed that this flavor was very good. For those that can handle a bit of lactose, there are so many amazing flavors. I recommend giving yourself a minute to look over their expansive menu before ordering. This spot is a must for ice cream lovers.
(5)
Ilyana E.

Mint chocolatechip ice cream delicious!!! The line was long but the waiting was not, they drop our banana split while making it so they start all over again but this second time on a rush so our banana was messy. Nice cozy place, to cozy for my taste; Imight go back and try more flavors.
(3)
Jessica C.

Peanut butter oreo & maple walnut were to DIE FOR! Great location to kick up your feet at the Harvard Yard to people watch- and enjoy your ice cream of course.
(4)
E L.

The most amazing ice cream ever. I've been there a few times and tried a few different flavors and every single one is so good every time. The cookies in cake batter is my favorite. The name is perfect since its almost literally chunks of cookies in cake batter (flavored ice cream). The peanut butter ice cream is great too. And the fudge brownie. I recommend JP licks over any other ice cream place in Harvard square!
(5)
Nikolai K.

I've been to JP Licks quite a few times. All their locations are pretty much the same, so this review is for all of them. The ice cream is very good, not a huge variety of toppings but they have all the common tasty ones so you won't be disappointed. The hot chocolate is delicious too. I give JP Licks 4 stars rather than 5 not due to any faults, but because the ice cream does not stand out in any way. In my opinion, it doesn't differ too much in quality or variety from store-bought Ben and Jerry's. There are sometimes very long lines when it's sunny out, which is probably when you'd want to get ice cream in the first place. Definitely not a fault of the establishment though.
(4)
Hala S.

I had cappuccino here that was terrible and overpriced. If I want to rate the place based on my drink, I would've given it one star.. The two stars is due to my funny/weird experience.. So my first name is Hala, which could be found funny and might also invoke some stupid songs (thank you Gwen Stefani for that).. After getting my drink and walking away this afternoon at this cafe, I hear the oldest guy in the store yelling to his two young employees "that lady's name was Hala" and they started laughing and hollering at each other! Mind you, I am not a stuck up... I wouldn't mind making fun of myself... I wish they laughed with me instead of at me or at least waited for me to leave before making the comment. It was awwwwwwwkward! Anyways, their sense humor got them an extra star but I won't be returning here for sure! Holleeeeeeeer!
(2)
Grace B.

Maple walnut hemp ice cream in a waffle cone. Need I say more? It was freaking amazing, I do love my dairy but I loved this even more. Yes it's almost the price of a meal, but it's maple walnut hemp ice cream. Don't make me repeat myself.
(5)
Chenna V.

Looks like it's not just JP licks but every ice cream store I tried has some cherry flavour in pistachio icecream. And google tells me, yes, it's actually almond extract that makes it taste like cherry. Anyways, their seasonal stuff and chocolate ice cream are worth it.
(4)
Praveen K.

The coffee/ice cream was good but had an extremely rude barista called Casey ..dampened the whole experience ..and hence the 2 stars..
(2)
Diane G.

Teeny tiny establishment with a small seating area inside and out. The line was out the door when we arrived. Huge menu of wonderful flavors, that makes you wish you could sample all of them. I changed my mind I don't know how many times while in line. Gah! I did know that I wasn't going to get vanilla. I settled on two kid cups, one with sangria sorbet and cappuccino crunch. Both flavors were delish. They offer different flavors each month, now I wish I had tried another August flavor besides the sangria. See I'm never happy. lol I'm hitting this place again, next time I'm in Cambridge. :-)
(4)
Ana S.

Sometimes you can find a place for good food that's a real steal, a place where you can get a dollar for fifty cents. Other times, you get what you paid for. JP Licks falls under the latter category -- and I mean that in the best way possible. For four dollars and change, you'll get a modest single scoop of ice cream...but damn if it isn't good ice cream. I think coffee ice cream is a good way to assess the quality of an ice cream joint. It's somewhat difficult to get coffee ice cream right. A lot of the time it comes out tasting like vanilla with a hint of coffee. I can safely say that JP Licks has some great coffee ice cream, including several variants including cappucino crunch and coffee cookies 'n' cream. Pro tip: keep the little spoons they give you for samples and each your purchased ice cream with it. It'll last longer...
(4)
Wendy L.

Hot summer days + cold JP Lick's ice cream = perfection. The line looks intimidatingly long but moves quickly - 8 people in front of us, and we only waited 5-7 minutes. Lots of great flavors from chocolate brownie to classic strawberry (my favorite). Portions are large - I got a small and expected a hefty scoop. Instead, I got one large scoop and two small scoops.
(4)
Tunisia M.

I once read somewhere that New Englanders eat a lot of ice cream and year round too. Now, thanks to places like JP Licks, I can see why that is. This review is for both the Harvard and Beacon Hill location. I honestly don't think it's possible to try whatever flavor is offered here- that's how good it is. It can get really busy at times but overall best small chain ice cream ever!
(4)
Fancypants X.

I don't always eat chocolate ice cream, but when I do, I eat a single scoop of JP Lick's chocolate brownie batter which is basically chocolate on top of chocolate with a side of chocolate. The sticky, chewy pieces of brownie batter makes my eyes roll back into my head, srsly. When I want to be extra decadent (aka fat), I order mini peanut butter cups as a topping...& then feel guilty & run a million (aka three) miles the next day. Side note: I've tried Oreo cookie batter & black raspberry, but those are 3-star flavors. Get the chocolate brownie batter & sign up for their cool frequent buyer's card cuz you'll probably be stalking this MA chain after one bite! (Luckily, they're ALL over cambridge!)
(4)
Heidi L.

JP Licks, a solid until-midnight standby. Especially delicious with the buy-one-get-one coupons, but still delicious without. My favorite place in town is still Tosci's, but when I crave the kind of ice cream I grew up on, I go to JP Licks. It tastes like something that /might/ come out of the carton (which is to say it doesn't have that sticky-smooth texture of fancy ice cream, or too-ridiculous flavors), but much better. The flavors there are not overpowering, the stuff-to-ice-cream ratio is just right (btw, the carrot cake ice cream is much better than the Christina's version - although it does have raisins), and the staff is friendly. I almost always order off the flavors of the month - and yes, I'm writing this review because I'm particularly excited about the presence of the caramel apple and pumpkin custard options. The caramel apple tastes like creamy cider, with a streak of not-too-sweet caramel. The pumpkin custard is just straight up good. Note that they'll have a pumpkin cheesecake flavor out soon, and that's good too...and it tastes /different/ from pumpkin custard. Woo! When nothing on the monthly flavors board looks great (cough the spring months), I stick to mint oreo or the coconut almond chip - the latter is excellent. Note that the coffee tastes burned here, and that same coffee is used for the ice cream, so while I love coffee ice cream I usually stay away from its iterations at JP Licks.
(4)
Sean C.

No Security Cameras. My wife's purse was robbed. Like a David Mamet play, a baseball-cap man came in, repeatedly wailing, "Anybody seen my wallet?" Wife and I looked to our side, then a second man must have dashed past and grabbed her purse off the back of the chair. We didn't realize until we finished eating our cup. Oh, I wanted to tell you about the Maple Buttah Walnut, wit' extta walnuts and hot fudge. Like it was churned the night b'fore. So good. But this happened. Now, the employees were unconcerned, disinterested, un-wowed when I announced, "Hey! My wife's purse was stolen!" Did you check under your seat, the cashier said in a disaffected monotone voice. Basically, the employees here are flat-lined unemotional drones. Not helpful. A policeman showed up. Employees not helpful to the man in blue, either. I'm going to guess the staff never told the incident to the owner or manager. It's that kind of place. Here's a hypothesis: These employees aren't whiz-kid Harvard students working their way through school. So if you walk in with your wallet tucked in your tight jeans, and stay five feet away from others at all times, you're going to be able to pay attention to the fact you found good ice cream. This is surely not an everyday thing what happened to us. But yeah, the police case is still open. With the contents removed, they found my wife's purse dropped in the dumpster an hour later (Trust me, I'm thankful for that. At least I don't have to go out and buy my wife a new purse). The police had found it an hour after reporting it, as if it had happened before. It's not just JP Licks, its all of Harvard Square businesses. But places sealed with security cameras and attentive employees would help. Oh, and to finish the story. Yes, I wiped the purse off with some Lysol wipes. Of course. I did that before I ever got around to blotting the chocolate fudge off my T-shirt. #outofpocket
(2)
Allison C.

A Harvard Square Staple, JP Licks offers both yummy ice cream (both dairy and non-dairy) as well as frozen yogurt. There are usually a few Oreo flavors available, and I do recommend peanut butter Oreo: so fatty, creamy, and tasty. And oh! Kids scoop size is a generous serving. There is always a line here, and given the narrow space of the shoppe, it can be a bit of a tight fit with many people standing and waiting. Service is pretty quick at the counter, but transactions can be slow, depending on whether there is enough staff for one person to stay put at the register (when I've gone recently, employees had to both scoop the ice cream AND work the register - which creates a bit of a lag). Definitely makes for a great study/work break, but JP Licks still doesn't top my book for ice cream in the greater Boston area (Toscanini's at #1!).
(4)
Andrew M.

I don't drink coffee or alcohol. In my opinion, both work better as flavors than as stand-alones, which is why I appreciate JP Licks' penchant for creating alcohol/coffee flavored special flavors. This month's was Jameson's Irish Coffee, which I thought was particularly good. Go before March ends!
(5)
Rachel A.

Dairy free ice cream. Highly recommend and I'm not even lactose! My friends find this laughable and think I'm a nut for ordering this but doesn't pineapple coconut sound really refreshing? They did not have it as regular ice cream so I gave the dairy free a shot. Seriously, one wouldn't even know this flavor was dairy free unless they were told. The pineapple coconut was creamy and thick. It had huge chunks of yellow pineapple cubes in it. The coconut flavor was pretty faint but the combination worked well. I wasn't thirsty after eating this ice cream. In fact, I just wanted more. I'd even try the chocolate coconut flavor. Dairy free all the way! My friends got the Leprechaun Brew and sorbet. The Leprechaun Brew was unnaturally green and supposedly had beer in it but the flavor wasn't too prominent. There was a good report on the sorbet but really, I just had the dairy free ice cream on my mind. Seriously good stuff and looking back at the pic, for one scoop on a cone, I think I got a deal. I really wanted to purchase one of the t-shirts on display whether it was the hot pink or black one. The worker said they were out of my size. Bummer because I wanted to buy one over a decade ago and was really excited to see that the t-shirt memorabilia had been resurrected. JP Licks is a Boston institution kind of like Emack & Bolio. It's not a trip to Beantown without a taste. And now Cambridge... Across the street from Harvard... It's clear. Smart people like ice cream.
(5)
Anita T.

Tried the fresh mint flavor of the month ice cream -- such a welcome change from the blue-green stuff put out by Baskin Robbins or other big name ice cream companies. Light and full of mint leaf bits!! SUPER FRESH. Only complaint is that we went at around 10PM on Friday night and the place was completely packed with a moderate line. Not a lot of space to sit, had to dive for a couple tables to accommodate a group of 7.
(4)
Jolene S.

The summer crew working at JP Licks-Harvard Sq rules! I took two "troops" over on a Wednesday afternoon/night and we all had a great time + enjoyed the seating inside/outside. To me that means JP Licks is the #1 pick for frozen treats in the Sq (for groups). I hear the oreo cake batter is THE flavor to try, but I had already eaten a medium (2 scoops: black raspberry-yummy--and a coconut flavor--good) by the time I heard that, so on my second trip I had a hot chocolate. Hope the staff stays this good, then I'll be coming back (with others) for sure.
(5)
Jennie C.

Was exhausted after a full day of sightseeing in Cambridge. So when I saw the words: best chocolate latte! I had to go check it out. But then I walked in and saw the ice cream cases and just headed straight to them... Got the peanut butter cookies & cream and mocha crunch, both were rich & creamy. The whole time we were there, the line never seemed to get any shorter. This place sure is popular, and for good reason!
(5)
hannah m.

Went to JP licks yesterday afternoon around 440. After waiting 20 min in line I ordered a small coconut pineapple smoothie. I was told they needed to get stuff from downstairs so I waited and was brought a large peach frappe. I told them again what I wanted and was asked again 3 times after this what I ordered and was waiting for as people passed me in line and I waited. After hearing someone say they accidentally made it with orange juice I was scared to try the new one they gave me. I got out of there at 5:15 and missed my bus. Not only that, they charged me full price after an atrocious wait time. I understand a few people were training but on a busy Sunday afternoon on Independence Day weekend, there should have been more veteran staff on hand. I live in the city and love JP licks but their customer service yesterday was pretty bad. I recommend trying to have repeat customers instead of the $5.30 you charged me for a mediocre 30-minute smoothie
(2)
Ahsante B.

JP licks gives you that thick, rich, creamy, gratifying ice cream, and I'm completely addicted. It's super convenient for students as it's right across from Harvard yard and the shuttle stop. They have lots of seasonal flavors, but my favorite is cookies 'n cream. It's usually pretty cramped, so it's slightly awkward for groups, but it's great for a quick late night treat! Beware that the line can be absurdly long at times (as in coming out the door of the place), but when you've got that craving, it's worth the wait.
(4)
Roopa S.

Amazing flavors and quality! I love that they have not only ice cream options but hard yogurt and frozen yogurt options. I opted for half & half-- I got oatmeal cookie hard yogurt and brownie batter ice cream, both of which were AMAZING. The oatmeal cookie was sweet but not too sweet, and truly a unique flavor that I haven't tasted before. The chocolate brownie batter ice cream was smooth and rich, with chunks of brownie embedded that made for a nice surprise every bite or so. The service was really great as well. The man behind the counter did not complain when I requested to try at least 5 different flavors, and he was extremely accommodating. Will definitely come back when I'm in the area. I want to try the pastries and the hot chocolate too!
(4)
Yu Y.

My favorite is coffee with dark chocolate corn~!
(5)
Evelyn L.

I don't ask for much, but when I ask for samples please don't make me feel bad about it. Service: The first time I went was weird. The employee I felt was bothered by me asking for samples and it wasn't even busy. Its not like I'm not going to buy anything and there are a lot of unique flavors\ that I would want to try before purchasing. I went a 2nd time when another friend joined us and wanted to try JP Licks. The 2nd time the employee (a diff one) was much nicer and gave us samples even though there was a line. Ice cream: I had cream flavor and blackberry. Delicious together. The 2nd time I had a oreo one. Nothing special though. Water: There is a water spigot on the sugar/napkin stand. Nice, unlimited agua for the sweetness. Summary: If I went back to Boston, I would not come back and visit JP Licks. If a friend visited Boston I would not tell them to visit JP Licks.
(2)
Jametria T.

Stopped through here before a Harvard Tour. We had a party of 10 and were able to get in and out pretty quickly. LOVED IT! I ordered the chocolate chip cookie frozen yogurt and it had huge chunks of cookie in it! And my husband ordered the oatmeal cookie frozen yogurt and it was soooo good. It taste like cinnamon and nutmeg and yumminess...I would highly recommend stopping through here!
(5)
Christopher C.

Most people don't know that the J.P. in J.P. Licks stands for Jamaica Plain, making this a true Boston ice cream shop. There are tons of ice cream flavors, waffle cones, frozen yogurts, and a ridiculous quantity of toppings. You can't go wrong with whatever you get here. However, my favorite is the hot chocolate. They have multiple flavors they can add and I always go for a shot of peppermint. It's just the right amount of sweet to go with the creamy chocolate powder they use. Even when I take it to go, I don't think I've ever made it home before I finish my drink. Great place for winter or summer but watch out, the Harvard Square location almost always has a line.
(5)
Gavin C.

So many unique and enticing flavors! Luckily, the staff let me get three flavors in a medium cup. I can highly recommend the Cookies & cake batter and the chocolate brownie batter. Creamy, balanced and delicious- J.P. Licks serves a true masterpiece.
(5)
Rachel R.

Since JP Licks is known for being a consistently tasty, local business with integrity, so I figured the least I could do was support them via a huge bowl of cranberry white chocolate cheesecake topped with dark chocolate mint bark (aka, the most thing festive thing since making the yuletide gay.) It was eh; I wanted over the top. Not mind-numbingly good, just mind-numbing. Much more mild than I was anticipating - just not enough cheesecake, cranberry, or white chocolate for these tastebuds. Hardly the end of the world, but then going home and seeing this "local, homemade ice cream"had a mile-long ingredient list, including partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil and high fructose corn syrup? *Soul crushed.* This is probably the first time anyone's ever said this sentence and it's actually been true, but I seriously would've been better off with a pint of Ben & Jerry's Cheesecake Brownie.
(2)
Brian D.

I come here. Often. Like three times a week often. I drink the coffee. I make them hem-and-hawww when I order banana-mango smoothies with lactose-free vanilla. I often sit outside and people watch. Fine. I do that inside too. I find this to be the least offensive (as far as lack-of-herds of free-range children go) JP Licks in the JP Licks Galaxy of locations. Actually. I used to love the Mission Hill location and went there every day. Funny story. I ran into the girl who made my latte like every day. She was working at a retail store in a mall, nowhere near Mission Hill. She recognized me. That felt pretty awesome. Cool story, Hobo! I like to watch all the international tourists try to figure out what the hell kind of store this is and then make happy faces when they eat ice cream. This is my 500th review. It only took me 8 years.
(3)
Michael C.

Had a great experience here. Decent price and the scoops they served us was bigger than I expected. Maybe because it was on a Monday afternoon the servers were really friendly and we got seats by the window to people watch while enjoying the ice cream. Its perfect location and gets a lot of praises. So I'm spreading the word of mouth on anyone visiting Harvard to definitely give it a try when you crave ice cream.
(4)
Al D.

It's not the cheapest frozen dairy products on the planet, but you get a lot of product and flavor for the money. So many choices here; including lactose-free items. Also, coffee choices abound as well. I'd come back here next time I'm out this way.
(4)
Skye G.

Dear John, Opp that is a different letter. Dear Tom, Oh how wrong I was. JP Licks strikes again. You continue to route for JP Licks and the Rum Raisin and I have to admit that I have been the Doubting Thomas. Mr G, my love, I was wrong and you were right. Yes, there ya go. I said it. The flavor, raisins, rum, smooth creamy texture pulled in a 5. For the price it was worth getting the additional scoop. The cherry cherry with chips was yum but I should have gone for 2 scoops of RR. My apologies for being a silly girl. Thanks for being so understanding and forgiving. With love, Skye
(5)
Diana R.

I was told by Bostonians and my Boston travel book I should try it and, as an ice cream lover, I made sure not to miss it. I literally giggled for a solid minute when I saw Oreo Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough was a flavor. They're my two favorites and they are combined. I had a glorious time eating a scoop on a sugar cone as I walked through Harvard's campus and feeling like I might pass for a student.
(5)
Jody G.

The service is slow and not too friendly. There are a few interesting favors (noodle kugel) but mostly the usual standards. There is a pretty long list of non-dairy and vegan and (even!) hemp ice cream. It's a coffee shop too with lots of fair traded coffees on the menu. But, I came for ice cream. And, I wasn't really impressed. My mint Oreo was just average in flavor, and slightly below that for texture (with a few icy refrozen bits). Not enough big chunks for my liking either. I would be much happier with a pint of Ben & Jerry's.
(2)
Tony H.

I was told this was THE place to go to for ice cream in Boston, but after going there I don't know why it has such great hype. The quality of the ice cream is on par with what you would get at any other chain ice cream stores across the country. Mind you it still tastes good, but it's just nothing special or even close to what the premium creamy of smaller shops you would find. They variety of flavors they have is impressive though. I had the brownie batter and the peanut butter flavor which were both good, but not great.
(3)
Nancy H.

Yay! I was so excited to find JP licks open past 10! And packed too! My boyfriend got in line ahead of me and was trying cheesecake oreo so I tell him to tell me how it is, but the girl behind the counter goes, "You want try too?" I was like "Hell yeaaa!" Okay, maybe not like that, but more like "Sure!!!" She also explains what I can get on a sundae while getting another sample for my b. Then this other guy behind the counter comes along and asks what I want so I get a small sundae with cheesecake oreo, m&ms, caramel, whipped cream, red, white, and blue sprinkles, with a cherry on top! I was so happy and this guy had such a chill attitude when I kept asking him if certain toppings worked. For some reason I felt like there were exceptions but the only thing is sundaes automatically come with sprinkles and cherry on top. Duh. Anyway, the caramel made it way too sweet but I still enjoyed every bite of it because the people there weren't grumpy, I got an awesome sundae for free because it was my anniversary for joining their rewards program, there were jimmies on top, and I was eating a huge sundae late in the evening (shocker!). Haha, but yah, hit this place up if you're craving for ice cream and get their cow card.
(5)
RONALD W.

Good stuff but I was expecting richer ice cream ala Amy's in Austin or Maggie Moos in Seattle. This stuff is really middle of the pack and I was annoyed that the waffle cone wrapper stuck to the cone and they weren't making fresh waffle cones (at least when I was there).
(3)
Monique B.

Yummy, yummy ice cream. Overpriced and crazy long lines :(
(3)
Joe T.

JP Licks now has MULTIPLE TYPES OF VEGAN ICE CREAM! Wow! I got a delicious chocolate soy ice cream with fresh raspberries on top and it was an incredible experience.
(4)
Shing Yiing O.

Walking around Harvard Square.. Saw a long line at JP Licks.. When there is a line.. it's always good.. right??? So I asked my friend what's up with JP Lick... They served really good ice-cream... that's what I've got.. I was deciding to get JP Licks or Toscanini.. Came here and get a few sample... the flavor of the month is Cow Tracks.. It was so unique... it tasted like vanilla and some chocolate chunk on it... add on a little flavor... Was bloated with brunch and decided not to get it this time.. Kinda regret.. :P but sometimes.. I just feel that the place is soo good because I just get a small "sample" of it..
(4)
Zack M.

This place has great ice cream and lots of choices! There is something for everyone here. Primo location for people watching.
(4)
Allie M.

I mean, really, can you give an ice cream shop a 5/5 rating? I don't think so. Instead I'll give this place 4/5 because the service was super friendly, helpful and funny and they recommended the (get ready for this) *beer and pretzel ice cream*! (!!!) If I weren't so lactose intolerant/allergic and ice cream weren't so fattening, I would eat it everyday.
(4)
Kimberly H.

Not one to back down from a challenge, it took me a couple of trips to find the right fit for me at JP Lick's. And because they have SO many offerings it was a task I was definitely up for. Their ice cream, which I want to love because it is homemade and in awesome flavors, is just not creamy enough for me. Same for their hard yogurt. BUT their soft frozen yogurt, more importantly their X (extra tart) yogurts are spot on! I am into the face scrunching, teeth hurting, kind of tart, and this comes as close as I am going to get in frozen yogurt. Their X Raspberry is so good, forget the toppings! Side note: they also have lactose free offerings which is a lifesaver when you have friends in town with dietary restrictions and don't want to be the jerk who makes them watch you ride the dairy train full speed ahead.
(4)
Samia O.

Pumped to go there after reading the reviews. Holy moly, the line snaked its way out the door. Since "Oreo Cake Batter" is on the top of the raved board, we asked to sample it: wasn't as chocolatey as I hoped, definitely more cake batter-ish. We actually picked out a couple flavors while standing in line.. after getting scared by the girl behind the counter who rolled her eyes while the customer debating with herself on which flavor to get. "Medium, cheesecake oreo and cappuccino crunch please, thanks!" Phew. Cheesecake Oreo: Once in a while we tasted a hint of cheesecake, with little chunks of soft oreo folded in. Creamy texture. Wish the flavors were more prominent tho. Cappuccino Crunch: Y NO COFFEE TASTE? =( I wanted coffee, not de-coffee. The crunchy bits weren't Crunch-crunchy, but rather Heath-crunchy, more toffee-like. Compared to Cold Stone's coffee, this was more like sugary milk. Maybe I will come back to try other flavors... but 2/2 were misses... or maybe not...
(3)
Joshua R.

Classic ice cream joint. They have a large selection of ice cream but sometimes are missing the basics (no soft serve vanilla??) and the consistency of the ice cream isn't spectacular. You rarely need more than one scoop as the flavors are generally very rich, so it's a great place to satisfy that sweet tooth in about 2 spoonfuls.
(4)
Lisa I.

The froyo is good as well, but they only have about 5 flavors at a time, and they're usually out of a couple of them. They're also very expensive and not particularly generous with portions. A medium ice cream costs over $5 and isn't very big. Be prepared to wait in line. Even in the middle of winter. It does move pretty quickly though. Not enough seating inside. But, they do have THE BEST chocolate-dipped waffle cones I've ever had. I'd come here just for those.
(2)
Corey L.

I'm giving it a 4, not because it's not great, but because Cambridge has so many great ice cream places that this one, which is a great place, is only good by comparison. I love their brownie batter flavor. And that they have brownie batter, cake batter, and cookie dough flavors. It's like they just didn't feel like cooking that day and just tossed the batter into the ice cream.
(4)
Kasse R.

I was staying with a friend in Boston and we decided to meet up with another one of my friends at this location for some ice cream and catch up time. Unfortunately, the serving area takes up almost all the space in this establishment, so there are very few tables, booths, and chairs for people to sit and chat over ice cream. We had to wait for a while for some (very cramped) space to open up, and it seems that even on a somewhat rainy day this place can get packed. I would probably suggest getting your ice cream to go if you plan on stopping by here. As for the ice cream itself it is very smooth and flavorful, but almost a little too sweet for my liking. I got the butter walnut with cookie dough and while it was delicious, it was almost too sugary - and I have a pretty strong sweet tooth, so you know it was a little much. Also, I believe JP Licks is a little overpriced in comparison to other ice cream + topping businesses.
(2)
Scott T.

I have been here many times and always enjoyed whatever I ordered. However I consistently have reservations with the staff (granted I tend to be in there during busy times), they can be a little rude for food service, and a couple times I was inwardly cringing on sanitation habits (working in front of customers requires more discipline than if you were working in a closed kitchen preparing food). Nothing was ever so horrible that I would refuse food (or cause a scene), but as a food service vet there are certain bad habits that you simply want to correct when you see them in practice. No excuse to be gloomy when you work in a place that serves coffee and ice cream. I ordered an ice cream cake for my gf's birthday in advance. They had forgot to prepare it when I went to pick it up, but fortunately they had what I wanted in stock. No apperent benefit to ordering ahead, so it seems safe to just pick it up (and they can customize it relatively quick).
(3)
Josie G.

1 Scoop of Vanilla: YUM Gummi Bears: YUM YUM More than $4 for it: NOT SO YUM I don't understand why their ice cream is so expensive. Goddamn city.
(4)
Alyssa F.

Alyssa "Cheezy" F Proud Cow Card carrying year round JP licker Favorite flavor: Coffee oreo Favorite topping: Caramel Preferred delivery system: Large cup (optional spoon) Preferred location: Harvard Square - best servers and servings MOO
(4)
Alex L.

JP licks is great and would deserve 4 stars for its product, but at this branch in Harvard I was served by this rudely condescending woman (short, fat, brown hair, about 30 years old) who talked to customers like they were 5 year olds needing instructions. I ordered a large, yet she served 4 tiny scoops of ice cream that didn't even go past the height of the bowl (which looks like this c.shld.net/rpx/i/s/pi/mpâ€¦ ). I couldn't help but feel both insulted and cheated. The ice cream however is pretty decent and worth coming back for. Except I would go to Davis next time to avoid this unpleasant employee.
(2)
Andrea B.

5.09 might be a bit much to pay for one scoop and one topping, but I just don't care. JP Licks has the best ice cream around. It's rich, insanely creamy, and really really sweet, which is exactly what ice cream should be, right? The oreo cake batter is definitely the best of what I've tried. It is perfectly good on its own. You do not need any toppings to complement it. It is very cakey tasting, you will not mistake it for vanilla or anything else, which can sometimes be the case with cake batter ice cream. P.S., for the sake of this review, "cakey" is a word. There are lots and lots of flavors to choose from, including hard and soft yogurt, which means I will be back lots and lots of times so I can try them all. Or as close to all of them I can get.
(5)
Steph C.

I stopped by JP Licks because I was passing by, and though I'd already had a big lunch I got a small cup of ice cream. I have to say - even if I lived in Boston, I probably wouldn't come back here with Toscanini's in the area. I did find the space very appealing. I liked the smiling cow, and the little parlor was welcoming. The service was also friendly, and I felt comfortable asking for samples. There weren't a ton of flavors that intrigued me, but I tried the avocado and the black raspberry and settled on a small of the latter. It was a neat $4. The ice cream was good but not great, and just as expensive and fattening as the great stuff. The texture was thick and gummy, which I sometimes enjoy, but it wasn't particularly well done. The flavors were fine, but only fine. The avocado was interesting, but not good enough for more than a bite. It was mostly just sweet, much sweeter than avocado, and the distinctive flavor only came out at the end. I liked the raspberry better, as it was nice and tart at first. Somehow, though, it got cloying even within a small scoop. I suppose there's no reason Bostonians should make good ice cream, but hey, Toscanini's is some of the best I've ever had. I didn't hate JP Licks, but it was mediocre. I wouldn't come back, even for that goofy cow.
(3)
Meg S.

I eat ice-cream year round and JP Licks is one of my favorites. It's not Christina's, but it has multiple convenient locations and I'm rarely disappointed in the flavors. The scoop of Killer Chocolate Chunk from my last visit was more Halloween candy overload than death by chocolate, but they make up for it with other flavors like Fresh Banana, Peach, Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip, Carrot Cake, and the oddly addictive Oreo Cake Batter. Scoops and cones are pricey, but not unexpectedly so considering general Boston prices and a prime Harvard Square location. If you're local, make sure to grab a Cow Card. It's hard to beat the two free ice cream credits a year: one on your birthday and one on your Cow Card "anniversary." It's true that seating is painfully limited here (especially during the summer), but Harvard Yard is right across the street so you can always take your cone for a short walk.
(4)
Darwin G.

JP Licks is great place to stop by after a long day walking around Cambridge and Harvard campus. Even their Small is a decent portion so I would share that with someone unless you're ravaging for ice cream. The pistachio is probably the best I've ever tried. It wasn't too sweet and whole pieces of pistachio. The bathroom system is quite strange and you'll need to ask for a "token" in order to use it.
(4)
Rebecca P.

Unlike many of the people who reviewed on this board, I'm not complaining about the customer service, which I thought was fine. I really just wanted to say how disappointed I was with the frozen yogurt. I have had their coffee before and adored it - I couldn't wait to go back and try their ice cream, which is my true love. Well, I went back today and got a medium coffee chip yogurt (which, by the way, cost over $5 but that's besides the point). It was pretty much completely melted. I couldn't even eat it - I put it straight into the freezer at work. The texture was almost slushy. Very disappointed. To JP Lick's credit, though, the flavor was very good. I might try again on another day, in case today was an "off" day and the freezer was simply not working as well.
(2)
Morgen B.

If only I got paid in JP Licks gift cards...I'd be a type two diabetic by now. I love this ice cream! It's ever changing flavor menu and the crowded space in which to order make me feel like I need to make a choice NOW. I've often rushed to choose (the pressure of people behind me was too much to handle, sweet Mohammed) and luckily the random flavor of the night has always been good. Pick anything here, it will probably be awesome. If not, check the sign, you might be in the wrong establishment. The only downside is the price. I'm not ballin like the monopoly man, I can't just spend all my money on dairy treats.
(4)
Sungeeta A.

Love!! They have a ton of flavors and they give you generous samples. I sampled extreme chocolate but went with Chocolate Brownie Batter at the suggestion of the lady behind the counter. SO GOOD! The chunks of brownie batter were amazing! I can't wait to go back!!
(4)
Gita N.

loved the ice cream and the cone too! try maple butter walnut!
(5)
Leslie H.

You mean to tell me there's a place in this world where you can get coffee ice cream and NOT have to pay to add Oreos? Coffee Oreo ice cream?! I think my life is complete. Or at least my vacation to the greater Boston area was complete after a post-dinner trip to JP Licks. At $4 for a small (one scoop), I was a little leery, but you get a good amount of ice cream, and the ice cream is pretty delicious. My cousin had the Cherry Garciaparra. I gotta say, I love creative ice cream names, and delicious ice cream, so this place is a winner in my book. One thing that was a little tricky is that the kids size is listed under the large instead of above the small, so I completely missed it. I was happy with my one scoop, but I didn't necessarily need to eat that much ice cream.
(4)
Rebecca C.

Ok, I didn't order anything but I had a taste of my friends' ice-creams. The lactose-free vanilla bean was good, which I was surprised by. It melted faster than the lactose ice-creams though. My other friend ordered the oreo ice-cream and it was good! Not overly sweet but sweet enough.
(3)
Kara C.

Absolutely delicious ice cream! Definitely a good choice if you're getting a craving and you're in Harvard Square. I love how many different flavors they have. Additionally, they sell beautiful ice cream cakes which are great for special occasions. Only downside: Limited seating. When it is busy be prepared to stand in the corner while you eat your ice cream.
(3)
Abby C.

Food/Cost: (2.5/5) (Note: This review is for the Chai only) I got a small soy chai latte here and it lightened my wallet by about $4. It was an ok chai, but not quite worth the amount I paid for it. It was a bit weak in flavor. JP Licks also displays an appetizing selection of savory crossiants which I wish I was hungry enough to purchase. Many Yelpers have commented favorably on the ice cream here; alas I was only in the area as a visitor and didn't want ice cream in the morning. Service: (4/5) The two male staffers here in the morning of my visit were both very friendly and did their best to be fast with the drink orders. Still, the line did go a tad too slowly for my liking. Ambiance: (5/5) I came here around 8:30am on a Thursday and there was a steady stream of customers - both tourists and locals alike. I quite enjoyed the dÃ©cor of JP Licks. It's super fun. The green, grassy walls and dark browns and blacks provided a good backdrop for the bright colors that overlaid them. It's casual, hip, and trendy here without being cheesy or too cutesy. Location: (5/5) This JP Licks is conveniently located right across from Harvard. It's also right off the Harvard T stop. I imagine it is a regular stop for many students or locals in the area. Overall:(3/5) Even with a mediocre drink, JP Lick manages to garner a OK rating, which is speaks to its top notch branding and decor. I wish I could try their ice creams as those seem to comprise a large part of JP Licks appeal. That said, if you're in the area, I would recommend checking this place out.
(3)
Mike S.

JP Licks # 1 ice cream chain in the area in my opinion. The coffee oreo flavor is to die for!
(5)
jun k.

Cute interior. I foresee this being a place that I'll frequent often simply because it looks like a hangout place. Honestly, after Norcal, CA ice cream, JP Licks is just aite for me. I tried their oreo cakebatter flavor which was overly sweet and fluffy, and the peach which was whatevers. I liked their tart yogurt... but.... for $4 a pop? Meh. Next time I'm going to try the coffee.
(3)
M G.

The ice cream was fine; I just have to note that contrary to the person who went on 5/5/2014; my party was served some mighty small portions. I used to get the kiddie as the small was a lot; but they seem to gotten past that. The kiddie was half a full scoop and the small--just a full scoop. Which if we were in Europe would be fine...but in America --no. Maybe JP Licks is having some financial problems and decided to make portions smaller and keep the price the same? But for a $4 scoop...I want a bigger scoop. Just say'in.
(2)
Joshua S.

This place in dangerous, I'm almost glad they don't exist near my home...if it did I'd weigh 50 pounds more than I do now...that's about all that needs to be said here.
(5)
Lisa L.

Two flavors in one cup?! SOLD! The line was out the door and really, can you go wrong with ice cream??? I think not. The mint oreo and chocolate were delightful. So was the oatmeal flavor, which I was skeptical to try... but the amount of cinnamon was on par with what the cookie should taste like. I'd eat ice cream from JP LICKS in the winter, snowing and all!
(5)
Ami G.

When my husband and I went up to Cambridge for his 10th year college reunion recently, I knew we were going out for dinner and then hitting up the actual event. I decided to do a little vegan dessert investigation because Cambridge is pretty well-known for being a vegan-friendly place given its diverse student population. I wasn't sure if we would even have time for dessert, but I wanted to be prepared in case we did! In my Google searches for vegan ice cream in Harvard Square, I was delighted to find two ice cream shops that offer vegan and gluten-free ice cream options! Lizzy's and J.P. Licks, both which are popular spots well-regarded for making their own ice creams, make it clear on their websites that vegan ice cream is available! I told my husband if we had time after the reunion and were able to get to one of those places before they closed, I would really like to try one of them. It's so rare to find vegan ice cream served in an ice cream shop, so I kept my fingers crossed that circumstances worked in my favor. Happily, they did! We left the reunion at 11:22 exactly! Lizzy's was closed, but J.P. Licks was open till midnight, which was perfect since it was only a short walk from where we parked. I was so excited to finally be able to buy vegan ice cream in a shop along with the less dietary-restricted masses! I was also a tiny bit nervous too- I was afraid I would go in only to find either they didn't really have vegan ice cream or that they were out of it, since it is a really busy place and it was the end of their night. I'll cut to the chase- loud and clear, written in chalk on their blackboard menu, were three vegan ice cream options! J.P. Licks offered soy-based chocolate fudge, chai, and coffee lace flavored ice creams! Better yet, those flavors were fully in stock! I ended up ordering two scoops- one of the soy chai and one of the soy coffee lace (the lace is just chocolate that is marbled throughout the coffee ice cream). I know sometimes I sound like every food I try and describe on the blog is amazing, but I promise you when I say I like something I really do. So let me tell you then that I liked this ice cream- a lot. In fact, I loved it. Even more, I think I just may be a wee bit obsessed. Only second to the ice cream at Lula's Sweet Apothecary in New York City, J.P. Licks vegan ice cream is hands-down the best vegan ice cream I have ever had! The soy chai blew me away- the ice cream was creamy and thick and the soy flavor was perfectly balanced as it wasn't too strong or too weak. The coffee lace was equally divine in flavor and texture. I am going to venture to say that this ice cream was so rich, if you told me it was fine Italian gelato made of whole milk, I would believe you in a heartbeat. Since I like my ice cream to be as decadent as possible (I just say no to sorbets!), this ice cream made me swoon. Every bite came with a squeal of contentment. What was also wonderful about it was that despite the fact it was very rich, it sat so well in my stomach ! It didn't give me a stomachache or weigh me down, as ice cream can sometimes do to me. My tummy agreed with it just as much as my tastebuds did! Now, I just have to find where I can get vegan ice cream in an ice cream shop in Rhode Island. I know there's the vegan ice cream truck Like No Udder in Providence, which I cannot wait to track down and try, but I wonder if any actual ice cream shops offer vegan ice cream? I need to do some research I guess!
(4)
Monica P.

The flavors are good but I have been once again reminded why I never come here. I get that y'all are trying to give off this "too cool" vibe and deal with ridiculous tourists all day, but you should keep in mind that you are still a service and I am still a consumer. Be nice to me, treat me like any other ice cream place would treat me, and I will give you my money. See, when you have that dgaf attitude and employ people who really just don't want to be there, you are disrespecting me a customer and now I am really turned off by everything about JP Licks. Get outta here with all that. You are not too good for me. Maybe you should take notes from the customer service quality at 21 Choices, Pasadena, CA. #canigohomenow?
(2)
Teng L.

Do you remember Vienneta? Well, we found out that it's sadly no longer being made in the States so we decided to drown our sorrows in an icecream cake from this place, and boy was it nothing at all like Vienneta. Their cake was covered with a layer of thick ice crystals, similar to how mold grows on rotting food. We took one bite into it, and it was a hard, flavorless, cold lump of... matter. There was no icecreaminess to it at all. So we took it back to the counter and this place immediately went from a zero star establishment to a five star. The guy at the counter was so nice, and went back to the fridge to take out 3 less moldy cakes, but to our eyes they were still pretty moldy. He apologized and said they had a problem with their freezer and offered us some scoops of delicious and fresh icecream instead. We had the cashew and the pistachio and they were both delicious and creamy. I really appreciated how they accommodated our complaint, it really made up for the moldy cake, but I'll still have to leave off a star because of it. Otherwise, JP Licks is great!
(4)
Michelle M.

They don't even deserve 1 star!! What would you do if you saw the guy behind the counter drop the ice cream scoop on the floor and pick it back up and put it in the water with all the other scoops??? I asked the other worker if they could take it out and get an attitude look and not even an apology!! Never go back there again!! YUCK and dirty!!
(1)
Vicky H.

Of all the JP LICKS, this is my least favorite. It's tiny and can never find a place to sit. In comparison to the other JP Licks, the bathroom here isn't the cleanliest either. My favorites are still the one in JP and Brigham Circle. It's summer time. why aren't they opened later???
(2)
Alicia S.

JP Licks, accept my apologies. I underestimated you. I judged you. I thought you were only a "cute" "quirky" ice cream shop and nothing more. Oh what a fool I've been! You roast your own coffee beans! You have lactate free ice cream! Your Oreo Cookie dough and Thin Mint - divine. Please look beyond my foolishness, and welcome me back into your faux grass walled pasture soon. Love - me.
(4)
Marysol V.

Since the taste of an artificial flavor that I can't quite discern is still in my mouth, I'll say a one star rating is quite appropriate. In their defense, I finished the kiddie size pistachio ice cream only 10 minutes ago, maybe I need to wait a little longer for it to fade away..... let me sum up my experience here; I walked in and waited in a 20 minute line because who wouldn't for an ice cream place with such great reviews. Halfway through the line I look up at the price board and realized I had to pay more than 3$ for 4 oz of ice cream. Ok, I justified this because its local, organic, grass fed, blah blah. Now, while I trully believe in the above mentioned trends and their benefits to society, I expected to get a kick ass, mind altering, out of this world ice cream experience. Instead, I was reminded of my culinary school days when we had to use canned marzipan with crap loads of almond extract because our school was too cheap to give us anything better. I didn't like that artificial flavor then and for some reason the pistachio ice cream I had here tasted artificial. so either I am going bat shit crazy or it was an intern who prepared that batch of overpriced pistachio ice cream.
(1)
Stefani T.

Liked it so much we went twice during our visit to Boston. Generous servings, yummy flavors and friendly service ensure long lines throughout the day. these guys live up to the hype! Good job JP - I like you.
(4)
Jane C.

I personally think it's hard to get work done here because there's always so many people. But the ice cream is amazing- tastes very "home-made" as they say. Even in the winter, it's worth getting.
(5)
Marisol H.

I absolutely and entirely LOVE JP Licks!! It warrants two exclamation marks. I remember the first time I visited JP Licks 9 years ago in Jamaica Plain (their flagship store) and just falling hopelessly in love with the Oreo ice cream and the cow on the roof. Making the trek to JP was too much for a poor college student, so over the years I ended up making shorter pilgrimages to satisfy my ice creamy craving-- to Newbury St. then (joy) Davis Square. Imagine my elation when I return to Cambridge this spring and find a JP freakin' Licks in HARVARD SQUARE. That's right, right smack on Mass Ave and across from Holyoke Gate--- waffle cone nirvana. What else can I say about this place that hasn't already been said? The ice cream is wonderful, the flavors are exciting (love to try their Flavors of the Month), they have a Cow Card (for reward points), and their black board is cool. I am a regular here, and you'll likely find me ODing on jimmies come summer.
(5)
Louis B.

Gargantuan sized ice creams, tasty smoothies, awesome cakes and great Espresso. I fell in love with their yogurt, since I am 100% lactose intolerant and ice cream does a job on my stomach. The greatest thing about the place, however, is that besides the good cheerful service, the outstanding food, and the superb coffee, they are tried and true local businesses. They will get my money anytime I'm in the area.
(4)
Elizabeth G.

I always have the hardest time reviewing the places I like the best. In my opinion, this is the best ice cream in Boston (maybe tied with Toscanini's but they're sooooo faaaar awaaaaay now that the Harvard Square location closed). Let's just say I have been here too many times for my own good. I feel like this should be an occasional indulgence and not a place where the staff recognizes you... but they recognize me. There are so many great reasons to go to JP Licks, before you even get to the ice cream. There's good coffee, a small for $1. There are yummy pastries (croissants, scones, cookies, brownies). If you like spicy things, please don't miss the Diablo Hot Chocolate. You can order a cute cow-spot-patterned ice-cream cake for your next office party. Sign up for the loyalty club and you will get a free sundae on your birthday, and earn points with each purchase for a future freebie. There are a few tables where you can sit and read; window seats for people-watching; outdoor tables in nice weather. The place can be a little overwhelming to the senses, with its astroturf walls and always-long lines and pumping loud music. But the staff are friendly, and if it all gets to be too much for you, at least you can zone out on your sugar high. So, that brings me to the ice cream. A broad range of flavors and oh boy do they pack a punch. There are about a dozen "monthly special" flavors that change on the first of the month. The fall ones are the best (variations on pumpkiny and spicy things, and one based on stout). In February the focus is chocolate. March is mint/green things (including one with Thin MInt Girl Scout cookies). If you see peanut butter Oreo on the list, snap it up then and there! It might be the best thing I've ever eaten. Every month they also have some frozen yogurt specials and sherbet specials, and they also just introduced a line of dairy-free ice cream with a coconut milk base. You can get your ice cream in a cup (yes they have child size), a cone, or a sundae (fun toppings like Fruity Pebbles and Cap'n Crunch). The friendly employees will gladly combine 2 or 3 flavors in the same cup if you ask. They also let you taste multiple flavors before deciding. On occasion I will still go a few doors down to Baskin Robbins. Gotta be honest -- this is when I am craving salt. There is no (or very little) added salt in JP Licks' product, whereas Baskin Robbins packs a salt-sugar punch that keeps you wanting more. JPL uses almost all natural ingredients (their mint ice creams are still green, which is why I say "almost"), whereas at BR you know there is a good dose of artificial in there... that space-styrofoam texture wouldn't be possible otherwise. Call me weird, but on my most stressed-out days, sometimes I crave that. On almost all other days, find me at JP Licks.
(5)
Stephen S.

JP Licks is amazing, part of what really does it for me is that I love oreos and cookies and cream ice cream and JP Licks offers several different varieties of this well loved classic: Cheesecake Oreo, Cake Batter Oreo, Coffee Oreo, Oreo, Mint Oreo. Oh man, they've got oreo covered! They also offer a very satisfying (although a little expensive) kiddie size if you're just looking for a little treat. While not as good as the in town rival Toscanini's JP Licks has several locations which makes it a little easier to come by and it's definitely a back up that is legitimately awesome in its own right.
(4)
Natalie T.

A nice place to stop at on a hot day at Harvard square. Nice service and delicious ice cream. I once got oatmeal cookie which tasted just like an actual cookie. The mint chip is just as good!
(5)
Judy L.

red velvet + cheesecake brownie ice cream in a waffle cone = mmm Note: this place is ALWAYS busy so might need to wait for seats.
(4)
Lexi K.

Crowded ice cream shop but it was worth the wait. I enjoyed my ice cream and thought it was delicious. I was also impressed with their eclectic menu and thought there was a wide selection for everyone.
(4)
Cat C.

I just want to thank the crew at this store for being super awesome every day! I go there for 1-3 coffee fixes. I get an ice cream on occasion, but really, they are my alternate coffee house. Don't forget your coffee mug for that one dollar coffee! Anyway, thanks guys and gals, keep being awesome :D
(5)
Meka A.

I wondered why there were no Dairy Queen or Baskin Robbins in Harvard square until I went to Licks. Licks is amazing. They have traditional ice cream and soft-serve (low cal) for the sorority girls who want to keep it tight. The flavors are abundant and delicious and all of the toppings are perfect compliments to the awesome ice cream. They also have a loyalty program for the frequent visitors. I used to think ice cream was only appropriate in the summertime. I was wrong. Licks crushes it all year long.
(4)
Claire W.

Amazing. So creamy. Their pistachio is the best I've ever had. Ãœber-fresh. Just tried the cucumber flavor yesterday and it was refreshing, a great summer choice. The mojito sherbet is toe-curling good.
(5)
Saira K.

Be prepared for extra-long lines, but good things come to those who wait (even if it is a little pricey).
(4)
Phuong D.

Homemade ice cream with very creative flavors. It's also in Harvard Square, a great area for you to enjoy your ice cream with live music if you're lucky!
(5)
Todd K.

Love this place. I've been to this location and the one in Back Bay. The ice cream is always the perfect consistency and the flavors are inventive and WORK unlike novelty flavors at other places. The seasonal flavors are my favorite- peanut butter Oreo, Oreo cookie dough, and maple butter walnut come to mind as favorites. If I had one complaint it's that they store their scoops in water and don't dry them before scooping (a rookie mistake that leaves a thin layer of ice on the ice cream) but that aside everything there is delicious and well made. TRY EVERYTHING!
(5)
Guillermo M.

The variety of flavors and the quality of the ice cream is excellent. I would love to try more of them. They made us try a lot of flavors before deciding even though it was packed.
(4)
Dee B.

*3.5 stars* It had been a long time since I'd had any JP Licks. I came in a bit biased, as my niece worked at a JP Licks for a couple of summers and back then I thought they were great. However, now my assessment was -- this ice cream is too damn sweet! Yes, it's creamy, yes, they have great flavors, but the overarching theme just seems to be sugar here. The service was very friendly here, I'll give them that.
(3)
Victor C.

The line wasn't too bad when I went here. Took only a few minutes to get a couple scoops of hand made ice cream. This place is good, don't get me wrong, but I wans't blown away. Wait, I think someone said I'd be blown away right? Well, I wasn't. That said, I liked it for what it was. Ice cream. It was really creamy too which made me second guess eating it because I didn't remember how lactose intolerant I was.
(4)
Geoff c.

I had JP Licks and Toscanini in the same day. Theyre both good. Though JP Licks doesn't have as many unique flavors as Toscanini, what they do have, they do well. They get tons of visitors and the line easily goes out the door, which creates a wait that some might find not worth a scoop of ice cream. They also have this weird demeanor though, that almost comes off as a superiority complex. I'm not sure if this is just unfriendly service or whatnot, but it's not very welcoming. Yet, they can afford to do it because there is a constant high demand for their goods. But either way. Their ice cream is good stuff.
(4)
Joshua M.

I'm giving JP Licks 5 stars for one reason and one reason only: For the month of January 2012 they have Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Dough! Chocolate Peanut Butter Cookie Dough was invented by Ben and Jerry's. It was discontinued at some point in the late 90's or very early 00's, but was available throughout a decent amount of my childhood. Nowadays, independent ice cream places will occasionally have chocolate peanut butter cookie dough as a flavor of the month. I've seen it at Herrel's and Emack and Bolio's. Every time I see it, I rejoice. JP Licks' particular choc. peanut butter cookie dough isn't the best. There isn't enough peanut butter. The cookie dough chunks are a little too small. Their chocolate ice cream works, but it doesn't go above and beyond its duty. In general, JP Licks doesn't have the best ice cream in the area (go to the dairy farm ice cream stands in the metrowest area or some other local shops). The thing is, we're in a region known for its good ice cream and so it's hard for a good, but unremarkable ice cream place to stand above the crowd here. JP Licks gets the job done and I commend them for that. But, as I said, what really earns them five stars is the Choc. Peanut butter cookie dough.
(5)
Jess M.

The Harvard Sq. JP licks is really quirky...love it. The staff...holy hipsters make me smile (and/or laugh) and the clients typically make me cringe (Harvard tourists and undergrads). The icecream is good, of course, but I usually go for the coffee. You wouldn't think that this would be the place to go for coffee, but trust me when I say avoid Dunkin Donuts and go here. For that matter, avoid Starbucks too. Although it did make me sad that this used to be Toscanni's...way awesomer.
(3)
Rachel G.

I'm sorry. I just can't lie about it any longer- I'm addicted to JP Licks. The vibe in all their stores is pretty similar-- delicious, creative ice cream flavors served by a hipster, somewhat nonplussed staff, to a ravenous, often-confused gaggle of patrons. As one of the confused, ravenous masses, I can safely say this place is heaven. Their ice cream flavors are fantastic, but I usually opt for froyo (hard or soft) and a whole heap of toppings, instead. The sugarfree flavors are chemical-tasting but not bad, and the lactose-free coconut milk ones are a great alternative if dairy makes your stomach hate you. They also sometimes have lactose-free hemp flavors, but I've never tried 'em. The Harvard Square location is almost always busy; I've never been there when they don't have a line. It also has one of the more zoned-out group of employees, but this has never really bothered me all that much... except when they skimp on the toppings (I'd say this happens around 30% of the time). When they're super busy on a warm night (especially on the weekends) the service can be pretty curt, but JP Harvard's staff is generally a nice group of people. All of that being said, I LOVE JP LICKS.
(5)
Anu T.

Amazing flavor and a super rich taste. Cant go wrong. The Harvard Square shop is super friendly and the atmosphere is amazing. Definitely my go to place on a nice summer night :)
(5)
Julia L.

Packed place but perfect for a sunny afternoon if you have time to kill because the wait was about 25 minutes. I didn't see anyone else trying flavors, but the gentleman behind the counter kindly let me try the key lime sorbet despite the busy hour. Ended up getting a medium cone with key lime sorbet (amazing!) and cappuccino crunch (eh) - DEFINITELY coming back.
(5)
L. B.

Good ice cream. Also makes great ice cream cakes for birthdays.
(5)
Leor A.

Banging! Choices are inventive and awesome, plus they get updated frequently. Staff is chill about letting you try stuff as long as you're not a total dickhole about it.
(5)
Eric F.

Tried a few more flavors over my past couple of visits with the most recent being Fresh Lumpy Primate and the ever popular Oreo Cake Batter...I now see why everyone loves it so much ;) Very fresh cake batter flavor that's more creamy and distinct than Cold Stone's and others' attempts.
(4)
Lauren J.

Homemade ice cream is so delicious. 4.25 for a scoop. Try the monthly flavors - today I had Bailey's chocolate chip cheesecake and it was great.
(5)
Hannah D.

I love this JP Licks location! Not only is it right by all the fun that is Harvard Square, but they're the only one I've been to where I've been able to find my favorite flavor--the lactose-free Pumpkin! Like all JP Licks, it's pretty cute inside, so I understand why all the Harvard kids will go hang out in there on the weekends since it's literally across the street. Their ice cream is phenomenal. Anyway, I had a great experience here, sitting in front of the window and people watching on a Saturday night with my friend Sarah. But seriously: Newbury, Mission Hill, y u no carry lactose-free pumpkin? It's the best!
(4)
Janice V.

french toast muffin is good, but the mint mocha mix is not as tasty as i believed. very filling, lots of people all the time, happy customers, great music, happy me. though a star down because the mint mocha mix was not fully stirred. Good coffee, good caffine, I'm so awake, and I only got 5 hours of sleep.
(4)
Fabio D.

It happened once a couple of weeks ago at Davis Sq. and Sunday at the Harvard Sq. location, the soy coffee lace dairy free flavor is almost all the way melted. Unacceptable! When i asked why, the young lady told me it was because the day was too hot and the type of ice cream (i had the same ice cream quite a few times before and it was served properly)! FIX IT!!!
(1)
Clare F.

I have been to JP Licks so much since it opened in Harvard Square that its not fair that I have not yet reviewed it. 1. Coffee: Drink the organic Peru La Florida blend with soy milk. You'll especially thank me when you bring in your re-useable travel mug and be charged a mere dollar. Iced coffee is just as good. 2. I haven't had an ice cream flavor there that I didn't like. I love their pistachio, but normally opt for the fat free frozen yogurts (soft serve) with rainbow sprinkles. You can't go wrong (especially when cookie and peanut butter are in the same machine and you can get them swirled. HEAVEN). 3. They don't have it very often, but the chocolate sorbet is to die for. 4. The baked goods are equally tastey. Savory croissants are even better when they heat them up in the toaster. And they literally have the best chocolate cupcake with chocolate frosting in the Boston area. Forget Sweet, forget Kickass Cupcakes, this is the real deal. 5. If you go with any regularity, get a loyalty card and register it online. You get $5 free dollars for every fifty you spend, a free sundae for your birthday, a free sundae every anniversary of when you registered your card, and the online registration gets you a free coffee and a free sundae. The only down side are tourists who don't know how to stand in line in an orderly manner during busy summer days. I usually read a book while waiting in line. EDIT: Please also try July's frozen yogurt: Black Currant. I can't even begin to describe how delicious it is. If you're feeling adventurous, try it with chocolate chips.
(5)
Emily M.

Impeccable customer service from Chris made our experience exceptional at the Harvard Square location. He sold me on a flavor that I may have otherwise not tried--something like a cranberry white chocolate cheesecake--and I ended up ordering a scoop...plus the peanut butter cookie dough, which was jammed with peanut butter flavor and deliciously creamy. I am a Ben & Jerry's super fan, and this ice cream compares.
(5)
Holly G.

Oh my god, some of the best ice cream I have had to date! I loved how they had so many unique flavors! Including 4 different types with oreo in them. I got the Cake Batter Oreo and I was in l-o-v-e. My boyfriend got Coffee Oreo and my sister got Kowluha...both, also incredible. I also loved the decor of the place. It and its fantastic plastic grass on the walls. Plus, they had a "kiddie" size and I always appreciate an ice cream place that I can order an x-small at (even though this time I wish I had order a medium). Yum!
(5)
Jason U.

Great homemade ice cream. You can really taste the difference in the cream.
(4)
Brian D.

Not many places do peanut butter ice cream well... JP Licks has cracked the code though! And the peanut butter hard yogurt is incredible (especially considering it's much better for you). The problem is that everything here is good... Oreo cake batter! Chocolate chip cookie dough! And their monthly special flavors are to die for! It's not as gourmet as Christina's (Inman Square), but this place is consistently SOLID. TIP: Get an ice cream cake from JP Licks for your next birthday. They are indescribably good!
(4)
Los H.

Here's how it's as good as it gets: It's open until Midnight. There's no where else you can just pop-in for a decent espresso after 10p. Along with that is, of course, the delightful staff, rotating art, & delicious frozen treats, yeah? Here's the cherry atop the wonder: Supposing you're good by mixing-in with the cars, the J.P. Licks by Harvard University sits just short of a sweet, rolling decline for longboard landcrusing. Peel off to the left as you spot the cow & hop onto the pedestrian walkway, cool your heels inside, or out - the outdoor space is yet another feature of this fine establishment.
(5)
Aspen B.

I really liked the Oreo ice cream, this is what I have read is good so I had to try it for myself. I love the fact that the ice cream is homemade and they have good toppings. I have yet to try the coffee but I have heard that if you bring your own mug it is only 1 buck, not a bad deal at all. I will definitely return!
(4)
Roscoe R.

I'm picking this JP Licks location because it's the one I visit most often, but they're all similar as far as ice cream flavors go. Though I was sad when Toscanini's didn't return to this storefront after Harvard renovated the building (and I was similarly sad when Denise's Ice Cream left Davis Square), I was glad to see another local ice cream place -- JP Licks -- replace Tosci's and Denise's. JP Licks has really good ice cream (and hot fudge). They'd get 4 stars if they had better variety and novelty. Their flavor selection is limited and relatively unappealing compared to other ice cream places. Sadly, they removed my favorite flavor (FTO White Coffee) from their regular flavor list, though it sometimes appears as a monthly flavor. Their monthly flavors tend to repeat themselves annually/seasonally -- never anything new, it seems. Prices are what you'd expect for premium ice cream. They're expensive but not outrageous. And servers are usually very friendly (especially Katie, if she's still working there). Overall, if you're in Harvard Square looking for ice cream, it's a tossup between Lizzy's and JP Licks. I'd probably pick Lizzy's first, because it's less of a chain (only 2 locations) and they have more interesting flavors. But you really can't go wrong with either place.
(3)
David R.

As with any JPs, you get some nice homemade ice cream. On the other hand, seating is limited, and the area up front is a bit crazy with students rushing in and out. Best plan is to plan to take your ice cream to go. Coffee isn't bad, isn't great.
(3)
MJ L.

Set in the heart of Harvard Square, this is a great place for a quick treat. Always amazing - especially love the chocolate peanutbutter ice-cream flavor. Fro Yo is also available. Their ice-cream cakes are easy crowd pleasers.
(4)
Kaella C.

If you've read any of my other reviews, you know that I recently had a friend up from Miami. I wanted to show her the great food exclusive to Boston and J.P. Licks was no exception! We showed up about an hour before closing and it was packed! The location is quite small and there isn't much room to move around. We got in line and ordered - the staff was great. The ice cream is just amazing. I got chocolate chip peanut butter (I think that's what it was) and my friend got cookie dough. She said it was some of the best ice cream she had ever had. They have quite a few places for seating and there's a good amount of room between each table, which is nice. The seat on the outside is quite close to the line though and some people even had to do a sideways shuffle to get by. They have seating outside as well. The small size is the only downside, but otherwise it's great.
(4)
Anna R.

Super cute ice creamery frequented by locals and tourists alike! Loved their non-traditional flavors (Coconut Almond Chip, Cake Batter, White Coffee) and their Hard Yogurt flavors (Coffee Chip). Fan of the Hard Yogurt as a lower calorie alternative. Shop is colorful and fun and staff is friendly and helpful.
(4)
Madeline S.

Only mediocre soft serve that melts sooo fast. Very pricey and the people were rude!
(2)
Angela K.

This location gets pretty packed in the evenings due to its location neighboring the campus. 2 stars on a Sunday.. 4 stars on a Monday night or Tuesday... 3 stars in between. The rating discrepancy is due to the fact that they restock Monday afternoons. By Sunday night they were out of almost every froyo flavor. I had already tried the ice cream twice at another location, was in the mood for froyo and was looking forward to giving theirs a shot. Bummer.. I can't even rate them on their froyo because I didn't get to try it. I started ordering item after item advertised on the menu, and one by one I got shot down. (e.g. couldn't do the apple sundae because they were out of apples.. etc.. etc.) My only option was to just go with regular ice cream again. I was extremely rushed because there was a huge line and I had already taken longer than normal trying to figure out what was actually available. They really need a system to unavailable items. I ended up with half maple nut half I don't remember.. both were good but nothing ultra special (hence me not even remembering exactly what I got!). For the price I could've gotten a half gallon carton of equally tasty ice cream from the grocery store.
(3)
Julia N.

In the summer when they have peach ice cream its the flavor you have to get!!! The last time it was here they sold out. I shed a tear and then got my backup flavor coffee Oreo. Coffee Oreo extra thick frappes = bliss. However, you have to be on them about the extra thick part. I definitely got a mostly liquid milk one the other night. Ugh. This place is busy even during blizzards. Literally came in here last winter to bundle up before making my way to work and there were so many people! The line moves fast though so don't lose hope. I also kinda like the fauxgrass walls :)
(4)
S G.

They can be good and not so good - some of the experimental icecreams just don't pan out. Still, we stop there plenty during the summer months, so they're doing something right!
(3)
Bill M.

JP Licks is a treat for me and my girlfriend, and this location is the best location out of the ones I have been to, hopefully the business here doesn't suffer since they are putting a starbucks about 3 blocks away. Anyway, Ice Cream. First I want to point out that they have a rewards program that is VERY useful, every 50 dollars, you get 5 dollars toward a purchase. When you are going through and getting Ice Cream regularly, this comes in handy, cause every once in awhile, hey, free ice cream! They make the best Frappes in town, and have such a selection of oreo products it's not even funny. I love their El Diablo Ice Cream when they have it in stock (El Diablo Oreo? Get on it JP Licks!). They have a variety in the menu that they freshen up every month with various monthly varieties. This causes you to actually have to If I'm going to splurge, break a diet, etc, it will be due to JP Licks, and the smile on my girlfriends face when I suggest it..
(5)
Mi L.

Tried two cups of coffee there, hadn't tasted the ice cream. Mocha too sweet. Latte was just so so. The barista was very careful with making the two cups of coffee, which took quite a long time. Environment is okay. Won't go again.
(3)
Bree M.

Sooo good!! I had Oreo Cake-batter, husband had chocolate with cookie dough topping. Both were excellent. They also have lactose free which is great for all the people that now can't have lactose. Will go again for sure when we visit Boston area.
(5)
Alma C.

super creamy ice cream, convenient location, efficient service especially given the looooong lines. fair warning: you may get into a diabetic coma due to the large portion sizes.
(4)
Vaishnovi K.

The ice cream is really good but just taking down a star because it was already half melted when they gave it to me in the cup. But other than that, the flavors are amazing. I had the Rum Raisin and loved it.
(4)
Theresa J.

J.P. Licks is like the most expensive ice cream joint on the planet but I still go here to get my fix of White Coffee ice cream every now and then. I do not really try any of the other flavors because I don't want to bankrupt myself and I don't even like the flavor...lol....I will just stick with what I know and love. Trust me...nothing else says love like paying 6 something for a pint of ice cream...lmao. I had to take a star off because the kiddie size is like the size of one of those tiny ass cups that you see at the office bubbler and it costs like 3 or 4 bucks.....so obviously the prices are so not cute.
(4)
Jessica W.

I had always heard about JP Licks from friends, but until recently never got the chance to try it. The ice cream was good, but a little hard (texture wise). I may just not be partial to homemade ice cream. It was a pretty basic cookie dough. Nothing special. Maybe I just played it too safe? I was there on a Wednesday night so I can't attest to how busy it gets, it was pretty quiet. It is in a pretty busy campus area so I can imagine it gets a little hectic.
(3)
Tom E.

Hey John W - you shyster, I skipped Berryline just to get the First To Review on this place an hour ago, and you pip me to the post. I FAIL AT YELP And so what did I get instead of the beloved Berryline? I got a solid if boring banana ice cream in a cup. It sums up JP licks for me - the ice cream is pretty good quality but the flavors are usually deathly boring save for the occasional gem (like cayenne chocolate) and it's not value either. For the former I'll go to Toscis and for the latter I'll be at Christina's. So while I was stuck staring blankly at the tepid flavors board, wishing I was over at Berryline instead of attempting this failed first to review, I did notice the wonderful interior design of this store.... green fake plastic grass all up the walls, wonderful spherical lightshades and eccentric framed art. It's a pretty stunning set-up, and with nice wide windows and some patio seating - they've got themselves a great spot. It's between Gnomon Copy and Leavitt and Pierce, close to where Mr Toscanini failed so miserably at accounting and tax a year before. How anyone could fail at ice cream selling at this location is beyond me. I think this will signal the beginning of the end for the lowly Herrel's round the corner and the stale Baskin Robbins in the Dunkin a bit further along. But Lizzy's should live on, the Ben and Jerry's in the Garage will be fine and... and.. and... DON'T FORGET BERRYLINE. It's not far and tastes so much better. Again, damn you John W.
(3)
Martin K.

Stopped here after Mr Bartley's on a whim. Outstanding ice cream. I had fresh cucumber which was very unique. My daughter had Oreo cake batter which was amazing. I went the next night to the Back Bay one and had the El DIablo (chocolate with cinnamon and cayenne) along with fresh peach (1/2 and 1/2). All well done.
(5)
Bailey M.

Fake grass covering the walls== AMAZING. Had the cookie batter ice cream in a chocolate covered cone... I think I went a little bit overboard since it was my first time here. I think the ice cream stands on its own, so next time I'll just do a regular cup. Super sweet ice cream, very delicious. Place was packed, which means I'm not the only one who thinks this.
(5)
John L.

I'm kind of underwhelmed by this JP Licks. Sure, it's got the same great flavors, and the same general toppings, but it's a different experience than the Newbury one. The ambiance is different (less cow, much more grass... I like grass as much as the rest of us, but I don't see why it should line the walls). What this one does have (that should help it more than hurt it) is vibrant local competition from places like Berryline. The Newbury one has a Starbucks to compete with, at best. If you're looking for good ice cream, it's here. I'm just a little wary of the place (maybe it just needs more time...)
(4)
Michelle M.

so much ice cream
(5)
Christina G.

I've tried most of the New England based ice cream companies around Boston. I'm pretty sure J.P licks is my favorite thanks to lots of variety in terms of frozen treats that they offer and the different flavors they come in. I've been to a few of the locations. They are all fun and service is always good, but what really matters is that the ice cream is consistently delicious.
(4)
Esther G.

Easily one of the best ice cream parlors I've ever been to. So good that I came here BEFORE I had dinner. Their flavors are unique yet delicious, although I'm always partial to the coffee oreo and pistachio. NOM. And really, how can you go wrong with a smiling cow?
(5)
Bridget B.

Ok, I'm sad to say I did not like Yogurt X, nor did any of the people I tried it with. That said, they get massive props for, you guessed it, disclosing their ingredients list. They literally cut out some packaging material that had the ingredients list on it and gave it to my husband. That pretty much all around rocks. Again, I've got my bone to pick with the invisible ingredients list from Berryline, and I admit that a lot of that caution stems from a) the fact I have massive food allergies and b) the whole pinkberry fiasco where it turned out the product they were selling wasn't even yogurt. Aside from not loving Yogurt X (but loving how forthcoming they were about the ingredients) I've always thought JP Licks was good, but Christina's will always have a stronger hold on my heart.
(4)
Ethan A.

Sorbet is what I came for, and I was mostly satisfied. Was glad to see seasonal flavors (margarita and a lemon hibiscus) but was out of the lemon. Settled for margarita, which was great. Factoring that it contained alcohol only makes it better. For a busy night though, they should have had more than three employees. They were not incredibly efficient, so perhaps someone should work that out. One employee was certainly stoned and messed up one of our orders, but was able to fix it easily enough.
(3)
Ted S.

da bomb! coffee oreo..cookie dough...sprinkles.. it's a pain that its so expensive - but in comparison to the other places out there, it's probaly about the same - plus - the guys behind the counter here are friendly and sometimes cute. Here's a hint: - go with a friend, but don't get two individual cups - get a size bigger than you want and split it. It's much cheaper that way - and to JP Licks: you better not get any more expensive because of this hint!
(5)
Serena W.

Thanks to my lactose intolerance, I'm limited to sorbets, most sherbets, and some frozen yogurts. Then I saw "DAIRY-FREE ICECREAM" with one flavor listed: lackey lemon. so that's what I got. except my friend's margarita sorbet was so much better than my lemon icecream, and I never have the luxury of eating icecream.
(4)
Mardget P.

I love you, JP Licks. I love you so much that my husband gave me a $100 Cow Card when I was pregnant last year, which meant ice cream every day for a month...and then a new Cow Card! Outstanding ice cream and remarkably unsurly hipsters working there who always give a little extra heft to each scoop. I credit coffee oreo and brownie batter with making me a happy pregnant lady and for my daughter being born so healthy. (Naysayers--try it first before you doubt.)
(5)
Rich H.

Nice spot for dessert.
(3)
Claudia H.

There is not really much to say about JP Licks that is not well known to anyone whose been in Boston for more than a few days. The Oreo ice cream is their signature flavor and it is excellent in all of its many varieties (mint oreo, coffee oreo, etc). I arguably like the oreo frozen yogurt more than the ice cream because the ice cream can be almost too creamy. In any case, JP Licks' oreo is far better than the Hydrox offered by Toscanini's. Some of the other flavors are a bit hit'or'miss. For example, I normally love the spicy "Mexican Chocolate" ice creams, but their Diablo Chocolate (one of their special flavors in February) actually burned my mouth -- a bit Willy Wonka-esque for my tastes. Other perks: Fun, local art-work (I first became acquainted with the charming SnugglePup project in the Cambridge shop flickr.com/photos/snugglâ€¦ ), the Brookline shop has practically the latest hours of any establishment in Coolidge Corner, and the original store in JP has an amazing fireplace that they get going around Halloween (on which they also out certificates for free cones to trick-or-treaters...or at least trick-or-treaters who are obviously younger than 18 :-P). They also make great ice-cream cakes, which you can order in advance in any flavor you like, or show up that day and get in...Oreo! Having celebrated most of my birthdays with Carvel ice-cream cakes, and dallied once or twice with Coldstone cakes, JP Licks really does surpass expectations.
(4)
Ani G.

I look back at this review and think it was pretty harsh after several years of frequenting this place. I still like Christina's better, but I like JP Licks a lot better than some of the other options in the area. The ice cream is always good - one of my favorites is the peach that they have during the summer months.
(4)
Vanessa K.

$1 coffee, how can you beat that! Actually it's $1.07 after tax, but still good. It was really tasty coffee too. Had a nice robust flavor, and not burnt at all. Didn't try the ice cream, but ordered cow paw, which is doggie ice cream for the dog. He seemed to enjoy it.
(5)
Farrell C.

Yum! Yum! Low-cal peanut butter ice cream. Dreamy
(4)
Doreen X.

I'm s t r e s s e d, thus you'll find me here having d e s s e r t s. Specifically, I'll be downing oreo cake batter, the flavor I'm drawn to when alcohol is off the menu. JP's scoops are much better in a cone than a cup, probably because that reminds me of my long-gone nonchalance . . .
(3)
Jen H.

This is a cute spot to take a date, grab some ice cream, and then take a walk through Harvard Sq. However, if you opt to sit at a table (hey, maybe it's cold outside, or bad weather, or you just want to sit down and relax...) there are a decent amount of seats inside and then you get to enjoy the faux grass walls. The ice cream was quite tasty. Not someplace I'd go regularly (my waistline wouldn't like that too much, although my taste buds did put a good argument), but I was glad that my boyfriend suggested we stop here for something sweet after our dinner... JP Licks is a special treat that everyone should experience from time to time.
(4)
Veronica R.

Despite that it was snowing last time I went, I HAD to stop by. Being from California, it's not everyday I get the opportunity to experience such enticing ice cream. I dragged my sister and mom along. We were all shivering and NOT in the mood for ice cream. I was determined to go though. Thank goodness we did! Once we got over the cute faux grass & cow decor, we proceeded to the menu. Aside from more traditional flavors, they also have a selection of specialty ones. The Kahlua & Bailey's flavors were a hit with us coffee-lovers. Despite the weather, there was a steady flow of people going in for ice cream and coffee, and thankfully the heater was on to a good temperature so that we didn't freeze inside while eating. Will definitely drop by again when I hit the East Coast.
(4)
Jenn T.

This is a hotspot for all the college kids so it's really crowded here. I got a double scoop waffle cone and the homemade ice cream did not disappoint! I got Oreo which was delicious! The coffee flavor was a little too strong for my taste. Overall, a great ice cream shop with a local flavor.
(5)
Cindy H.

One of the ladies gave me generous samples. I ended up choosing banana oreo ice cream - I wish there was just a banana flavored ice cream because there was too much oreos.
(3)
Julie B.

Lots of flavors and toppings to choose from and they have hard yogurt which I loooove. Every time I end up here there's a huge line but it moves really quickly. The staff is really friendly and knows what they're doing when it comes to ice cream.
(4)
Robin G.

I only got a drink and a spinach and cheese croissant. The mocha latte was a little too much mocha and not enough latte so it was a little too sweet. The croissant was a little too doughy but I'd try the place again.
(3)
Rachael N.

Yumm! For a chain, this is a GOOD one! My favorite is coffee Oreo, but their soft and hard yogurts are also incredible! Milkshakes to die for!
(4)
Mike J.

In the heart of Harvard Square is a tasty ice creamery, granted it's a chain but ... they kept giving me free stuff just for signing up for the loyalty card ( free scoop, free coffee, etc. ). Some of the specialty monthly flavors were inventive and had some taste to them ( as opposed to most chain ice cream ) so that's a bonus. Too bad they don't have any stores in NY, though I'll be back when I'm in Boston next.
(4)
Chi I.

If you are craving both ice cream and coffee and happen to be in the Cambridge area in MA, go to JP Licks. It's the best of both worlds. I was there last June and craved both treats and ended up compromising by getting the 'coffee ice cream' (creative right?! ;-)) FYI - their single scoops are huge...they could almost pass for a double. The coffee ice cream hit the spot. I wish I had room to try their hot coffee drinks. Ah well, I guess I just have to go back soon to Cambridge to try it out. :-)
(4)
Emily H.

Scenario: 29 degrees Fahrenheit. My first visit to Boston, Haavaaad and Haavaaad Square. I'm dressed in a stolen green hoodie with felt teeth sewn at the opening, button eyes and felt spikes on the top. I'm a dragon, obviously. Its the day after Halloween, but everyone still humors me. Its almost snowing, but I'm a sucker for sorbet. Good thing. I came here twice in a weekend visit. The first love, Apple Sorbet. Bits of apple and apple skin with a touch of frost, like the first frozen applesauce of the winter season (?!?). The second whirlwind romance- Cranberry orange sorbet. Flecks of deep red, bursts of orange zest. So autumny yet still frozen. How does this work? Why do I keep on coming back for more? Dear GOD I'm SO COLD but this sorbet is SO GOOD.
(5)
Nan S.

I give this place 4 stars, not for their amazing ice-cream or price... but b/c it's a cool place to hang out, and it's open until 12am every night. Having said that, I'm not from the north, so I'm not used to ice-cream being so expensive and soft-serve being just as expensive... I don't understand what the difference is b/t vanilla soft-serve from McDonald's for one dollar and the same thing from here for 5 dollars (except for the atmosphere). I do like their interesting flavors of the month, though (eg. lavendar, hibiscus, assorted beer flavors, strawberry cheesecake, etc). Other than that, it is pretty average but very expensive.
(4)
Kaitlin C.

This is my new favorite frozen yogurt shop, I wish we could get one in CT. You just can't go wrong with the oatmeal cookie hard fro yo or the peanut butter chip hard fro yo, them combined is an outstanding combination. They are super friendly and welcoming there, you can try any flavor you wish! Definitely a must eat if you are visiting Boston.
(5)
Joseluis A.

i love oreo cookies i love coffee i love ice cream i fuckin love oreo & coffee ice cream could be cheaper... but i still paid for it mmm ice cream yeah
(3)
Amanda K.

It's not the best ice cream I've ever had, but it is always good. They have a lot of interesting flavors that my friends enjoy, but I'm pretty boring when it come to ice cream (I really only ever get chocolate). They have wafer cones which I really appreciate. There is never any place to sit, which is fine with me, but bothers some. They make a pretty decent shake as well.
(3)
Glenn G.

I love regular ice cream, which this place has plenty of, but just for the novelty, I tried their peanut butter hemp milk ice cream. Not only was it the best vegan ice cream I've ever tasted, it was among the best ice cream I ever tasted. My husband doesn't eat dairy and he had their soy chai flavor which was also excellent. A must stop in Cambridge!
(5)
Sara S.

I'm not ashamed to say that this is the best ice cream I have ever had. Yes, in my entire life, in any city, state, country. I like it that much. It's hard to believe it's a chain. I have kind of a sweet tooth, so my only complaint about this place is that it's addicting. But on a blistering day in the summer, nothing makes me feel so good as having oreo ice cream on a waffle cone from here. Happy 4th of July!
(5)
Joel C.

Highly recommended by my Bostonian friends and so I decided to give it a scoop. Just so you know, I'm very picky about the quality of coffee beverages and so I apply the same judgmental and high-in-standard attitude to coffee ice-creams as well. So I ordered their coffee ice cream, tried it and I must say, I was impressed. A good combination of sweet, impressive taste of coffee authenticity, and richness in texture brings delight to my taste buds. I'm sure the other ice-cream flavors are good as well. The only downside is that it is quite pricey for ice-cream. I suggest you give it a try.
(4)
Nik B.

So rich. So fresh. So delicious. So tasty. So creamy. So smooth. So chunky. So heavenly. So affordable. So heavy. So unique. So diverse. So mouth-watering. So fulfilling. So satisfying. So let's go to JP Licks.
(5)
Chris M.

best ice cream in the boston area for sure. i've tried all the others (Tosci's, Christina's, Batch, etc.) and JP Licks has been consistently the best in my years in the area. the only reason it isn't 5 stars for me is that my favorite ice cream (Peanut Butter Cookie Dough) is only carried seasonally. this needs to be a permanent addition.
(4)
Jessica C.

It's TOO rich, TOO sweet!! Still yummy nevertheless, the service was quick, friendly, and helpful. I got the Oreo cake batter.. it tasted very good, but it was much too sweet for my taste, it was like sweet cream icecream with oreos. Luanne got the coffee oreo, it was the exact opposite, the coffee flavor was super strong, almost bitter. We got single scoops but realized we should have gone with the kids size! Luckily there were a few seats inside, we ended up chatting for a while and ended up only eating a few bites, but I'd definitely return to try the other flavor when I'm craving. I have to be super in the mood for icecream like that. I think i'll still be sticking to my pinkberry, yogurtland, red mango on a regular basis.
(3)
Oslo H.

Very happy they've introduced non-dairy ice creams, but it's unclear if they have refined sugar or not. I want a vegan sweet without refined sugar, so the sorbets are out - I'm hoping this gets clarified and they keep the vegan offerings! I'd be even happier if they introduced gluten-free cones, and replaced plastic spoons with something like 'ecotensils'...
(4)
Stephanie L.

With JP Licks around every corner and Bostonians eating their way through tubs..we couldn't leave without some of the goods. We were visiting Harvard and pretty thirsty, so of course, me being a lover of sorbet, I suggested some JP Licks! Lemon sorbet is the best for thirst quenching, so I was pretty excited to see they had Lemon Hibiscus sorbet on their menu. We asked for a taste, and it's pink on the spoon! For a second, I was confused, but after putting it in my mouth, we ordered a triple scoop of it and scarfed it down. It took us a while to decide, but we think the flowerlike things in the sorbet were actually dried smashed cranberries. Really great flavor with just the right amount of twist. Everyone really wanted to try the other flavors, but ended up passing. I can't report to you on other flavors, but on the basis of just this one...it's a winner
(5)
Jason W.

This store does homemade ice cream very well. What more do you want? The black raspberry was fantastic and the pistachio was subtle but still hit the spot. The available toppings are incredible, by the way - cappuccino chip bark, hot fudge, etc. The ice cream creations here are just wonderful. This store also makes coffee drinks, which pair nicely with the coffee. While the drink sare nothing amazing, they really complete some after-dinner dessert. The service is pretty quick, even on a Friday evening. Parking in nearby garages and this restaurants prime location in downtown Cambridge make coming back easy. Overall, a wonderful dessert place, even in the Boston winter!
(4)
Jenn Y.

Have yet to meet a flavor of theirs I don't like, personal favorites include coconut almond, maple butter, pistachio, white coffee, and cookie dough. Very generous portions, super nice staff, tasty frozen treats, what's not to love? Best part, you can mix and match flavors for any size, including the pints! They'll pack a new pint for you with multiple flavors so you can take it and secretly scarf down the entire thing in the comfort of your own home...um...not that I've done that recently or anything...
(4)
Daniel M.

El Diablo Hot chocolate. Thus far this is all I've had from this shop and it alone warrants four stars. It is smack-your-momma good. Cinnamony and with a solid punch from the cayenne to round out the flavor this alone is worth a visit. The shop itself looks like the bastard child of and IKEA and Urban Outfitters and smells a little weird (not dirty...just weird) but if you're just picking up some of their fantastic hot chocolate to go that matters not, right?
(4)
Miriam L.

Peanut butter soft serve? *swoon* Peanut butter and oreo cookie swirl soft serve? *double swoon* That is all.
(4)
Patrick C.

The BEST ice cream and frozen yogurt I have ever tasted. The line moves extremely quickly and the service/cleanliness is always consistently wonderful. I don't have anything else to say, and that's a first!
(5)
Julia M.

I first heard of JP Licks before I even moved to Boston. A friend who had lived here gave me a gift card as a welcome present. I think I went 3 times in my first week alone and often have cravings. Lots of fun flavors, yet they always have plenty of "classics," which is a good thing. I generally stick to the oreo/cookie variety and after 2 years have yet to be disappointed. This is esp important to me because I always go for frozen yogurt since I can't eat ice cream, and so many specialty ice cream stores totally neglect the yogurt. Not JP Licks! Also, the store may feel crowded, but the staff is really good at moving people along and getting them their dessert. This is really important on a hot day, or just in general if you're impatient like me. Big fan!
(4)
Ken M.

You can't go wrong with super premium ice cream. Kitchy decor, friendly staff. Always a long line but it moves fast. Could use some more seating, but that would be darn near impossible. Try the peanut butter hard yogurt with hot fudge.
(5)
Liz S.

This might be the most delicious ice cream I've ever, ever had. It's a close call between JP Licks and Toscininis for the best ice cream in Boston. SO, so, so good.
(5)
Sarah R.

JP Licks is by far the best ice cream shop I've ever been to. My boyfriend and I went one day when we were having a major dessert craving. We ordered the Brownie Ala Mode Sundae with 2 large brownies, 2 scoops of chocolate ice cream, 1 scoop of vanilla ice cream, reeses peanut butter cups, heath bar, & chocolate chips w/chocolate sauce on top. We almost had a heart attack after eating the whole thing, but we enjoyed every bite of it. The portions are very generous compared to other places like Cold Stone. Indulge!
(5)
Lauren G.

JP Licks has a great variety of ice cream (love the monthly special flavors)... cute place - but a little pricy! Just a yummy ice cream place. Doesn't feel too "chainy" especially love the cow spot tables! The monthly special flavors keeps it interesting and they let you taste multiple flavors. The only thing is the price... $4 is a little much given that you can get a whole pint of Ben and Jerry's at CVS for the same price!
(4)
Ligaya T.

Jumping right in, I like the grass. I don't go many places where I want to rub the walls. Oh come on, just do it! Feels good, right? Anyway, they do product here pretty darn good. Hard packed ice cream with just the right amount of tongue give. Big chunks of oreo, pleasant coffee bitterness. It's a flavor I can't get enough of. Big menus are eye candy for those obsessed with new and exotic. Me, I'll take a tried-and true. And they wear uniforms, a guarantee it'll taste the same each and every time. Still there are some minuses: disappearing ingredients, absent workers. Who took the malt?! Chocolates frappes will never be so plain. There's a good chance the tables outside will be full, so watch for the no. 1 bus crossing the street and slip into Harvard yard. Keep on for a bit and you'll find a cluster of outdoor tables neglected by the kids. They really do have greener grass on this side, the bastards.
(4)
Daniel S.

I seem to have a knack for having bad first experiences anytime I try some place new. Well, after my first JP Licks fiasco, it is now my go-to Oreo ice cream place. They sure try to be all things to all people -- coffee, baked goods, yogurt, smoothies, pies... I just stick with the ice cream, and always remember to bring my Cow Card to rack up rewards points. The monthly ice cream specials, especially the seasonal selections, are often fun as well.
(5)
Courtney H.

Let me tell you, internet, you have no idea how happy I am that there is a JP Lick's in Harvard Square. They have the best soft-serve frozen yogurt I've ever eaten. The oreo cake batter ice cream is divine. This JP Lick's isn't very big, but I tend to eat my ice cream on the go, so it's no big deal to me.
(5)
Jess L.

wide selection, fast service. A little pricey, but if you're like me, you'll pay for good ice cream - no matter the season!
(4)
Nuri K.

From its kitschy-sexy-cool new wave decor to the creamy, home-churned ice creams and frozen yogurts, JP Licks is a wonderful respite from the muggy Cambridge gloom. The ice creams' consistency straddles some place in between the super-dense, super-premium ice creams and the airier, more old-fashioned scoops. Sizable portions and a modern yet comfortable atmosphere should draw the regulars and still more tourists. Of the flavors we sampled, my favorites were the seasonal cucumber ice cream and peanut butter frozen yogurt. The latter's texture was sublime-- creamy without being cloyingly sweet or sticky-- and I wouldn't miss the fat if this treat were to be made regularly available to me. The cucumber ice cream was a surprise and a good one at that; it's rare these days to be tantalized by completely new gastronomic experiences, and what makes this flavor sing is the reconciliation of said new sensations with the familiar. The cool grassiness of cucumber is mellowed out by its melony notes in this stunner, married with the richness of ice cream, ought to present the cucumber in a way that most of us have not yet encountered. A bit disappointing was the peach ice cream, which didn't take advantage of the tart juiciness of the peaches and focused on buttery-sweet one-dimensionality. I felt additionally that all of the ice creams could have used a pinch of salt to brighten things up a bit. But JP Licks is still a winning place to cool down and indulge your sweet tooth.
(4)
Leighann F.

It's official. The Harvard Square frozen treat market is now fully saturated. There is no more room (never mind a need) for another frozen yogurt/ice cream/ frozen non-dairy/frozen anything anywhere in this Square. That's not to say I am not pleased about it. I am just saying...enough is enough. Normally I would curse silently about another chain calling Harvard Square home, but in the case of JP Licks, I'll let it slide. The business is locally owned and operated, so it kind of negates the whole chain thing. As does deliciousness. As does soft-serve ice cream that tastes like pureed oreos. They have flavor variety going for them (but so do other local competitors), as well as friendly service and a newly established proximity to my home. There is few pleasure more satisfying than devouring a soft-serve cone on my walk home from the Square. I am in the Square a lot (which means LOTS of walks home) and plan on taste-testing quite a few of their flavors (cow tracks, black raspberry, white coffee) before the acceptable eating-ice-cream-while-walking-out-doors season is over. As of today, I got plenty of time!
(3)
Oolong T.

We were stuffed from dinner but decided to get ice cream on our way to the Harvard Square T station. It was a freakishly cold night (in April) and I was the only one jittering my teeth off in the weather. What better idea than to stuff your face with homemade ice cream? You can really taste the creamy cream in their ice cream. I was also happy pappy that their portions was so big! We were all cold, dazed, and trying to not hit each other w/ our spoons while walking and sharing our cups. I wish I was there right now to try their seasonal pumpkin flavors!
(4)
Tara K.

Boyfriend had peanut butter oreo, which was intensely flavored. I ordered a special -- butter pecan, which I was disappointed by. The pecans were stale and some even tasted rancid! I wouldn't go back and stand in line for this ice cream again.
(2)
Richard S.

Came here for a quick pre-dinner treat. Quick in, quick out. I got the Coffee Oreo and he piled on a gimongous scoop for me in a cone. It was so delicious - maybe because it was really warm in the shop. The ice cream was melting all over my hand before I could lick all the sides in time. I would recommend eating this AFTER dinner though because it spoiled my appetite a bit, which is pretty rare.
(4)
J T.

JP Licks has a prominent location on Mass Ave in Cambridge. The classic black wood decor accented with neon green 'grass' on the walls is striking, especially at night. As for the ice cream, i got the mint oreo. It was good, rich, creamy, sweet. But $4.25 for a single scoop in a cup is a little steep. So four stars instead of five.
(4)
John W.

How many different places can you get ice cream or fro-yo in Harvard Square? Herrell's, Berryline, Lizzy's, etc. Now JP Licks has thrown their proverbial hat into the ring. Opened where Toscanini's Ice Cream once stood, this location offers the expected wide variety of rich, creamy homemade flavors. I am a fan of their season flavors like cucumber and tabasco. And their coffee ice cream is tops.
(4)
B. B.

It's awesome. Hanging out loads in Harvard has steeled me against a certain level of borderline-sadistic non-service from the employees of stores and restaurants. But so far, the folks over at this JP Licks just warm the cockles of my heart. They're helpful, but not pushy. And just seem, well good-natured. Scooping ice cream and making coffee for hours on end can be very trying, but these people (really hoping I don't jinx this) wear it so well. It's amazing. To be honest, I'm not the biggest fan of ice cream. I'm a cake girl. I'd probably opt for most baked goods over anything frozen. But the ice cream here is great. I ADORE the cucumber flavor, which is regrettably still seasonal. It has a unique, surprisingly fresh and light taste for ice cream. And if what I really want is a baked good, they have a decent number of those, too. And coffee- hooray for coffee! My one minor complaint, which is probably a big bonus for most others, is that they are often too generous with portions. Sometimes asking for a kiddie size just means you want a kiddie size. So sometimes I'm a bit overwhelmed. But still, I love it.
(5)
Matt S.

I'm no Ice Cream maniac, so I'm quite sure there are 'better' Ice Cream establishments for the connoisseurs out there. For me, though, JP Licks - any one of it's multiple locations, but the Harvard Square one in particular - is a must visit when I'm jonesin' for a scoop. All of the flavors I've had taste fresh and are quite unique. The monthly flavors are outstanding because they vary wildly and are limited in their appearances - in some ways it'd be nice to see flavors of the month that I truly enjoyed become regular items on the menu, but the 'get 'em while they're around' aspect is fun in and of itself. It's a major source of positive marks that every flavor I've tried, even if it's not destined to be a favorite, is enjoyable. I've yet to try one I haven't liked, and at this point I've a few under my belt. JP Licks is all around solid. I can't give it five stars simply because, as stated, I'm not an Ice Cream lover by any stretch of the term. However, when I need some dairy goodness, I'll make a beeline for whichever JP Licks is within proximity of me. Suffice to say, I'll leave satisfied.
(4)
Cy K.

Its a nice Ice cream place, but I really don't understand what is so special about it. The ice cream is nice and rich, but nothing over what you'd get in a carton from your local grocer. Also, its often completely packed with college students which makes seating/service a pain.
(3)
Logan C.

I love JP licks! It closes every night at midnight and for the longest time my girlfriend and I would rush over for a "midnight snack" at 11:55pm! In fact, I am eating some right now! My favorite flavors are the oreo cake batter and coconut almond chip ice cream. They usually have awesome monthly flavors too and you get to mix three flavors in a large. The servers are always extremely friendly to us. They are very strict about closing at midnight, but as long as you get there before they always feed you. And one time we needed an extra scoop because we we feeding lots of people, and the manager just gave it to us for free. J.P. Licks is always a fun time and DELICIOUS ice cream!
(5)
Barney B.

Toscanini's old H2 joint is now a JP Licks - I can't complain. Don't get me wrong, I love me some Taxesnono (I mean Toscanini) ice cream, but when I am as fat and lazy as I am, sometimes convenience and soft-serve froyo options win out. and H2 has it's own choices - this new place, Lizzy's, Herrell's, Berryline.....and still the coffee/oreo froyo is my go to. yeah, sometimes I suck it up and go for the more delectable real stuff - but when that swirl of lofat chemically-enhanced numminess hits my spoon, I know a big part of me is home. that big part also made me need a new belt this month. such is life.
(4)
Melissa M.

I ate a pretty large slice of JP Licks unbelievably delicious oreo ice cream cake at a staff meeting. I'm glad it was Betsy's birthday because we got a nice treat. This was after I ate my requisite second lunch of the day which consisted of cheese, crackers, and fruit. My ICE CREAM GOD, this cake was the best ice cream cake I've ever eaten. I am excited that JP Licks made it's way to Cambridge to compete with Herrells, Ben and Jerry's, etc. I totally recommend that you try this cake. The cake alone gets five stars!
(5)
Rich F.

The ice cream is great. There are places to sit. There is no wi-fi like the one in JP. At least there are not a bunch of little kids running around.
(3)
Victoria H.

If you want to have a college feel to start or finish you day in Harvard an have a delicious frozen treat! Then this place is defiantly the spot! They have ice cream, and their famous ice cream cake! ( like oreao cookie & cream cake ) this place also serve yummy hot chocolate and lovely bake cookies and cupcakes! This place is fabulous and a nice place to hang out with friends! this place is as cool as Ice cream...really it is!
(5)
A M.

The most amazing oatmeal cookie yogurt I have ever had- I live on the west coast but travel to Boston frequently for work and J.P. Licks is always on my list of places to go!
(5)
Colleen Y.

I am a huge frozen treats person, but for some reason I have never gotten ice cream at JP licks. Probably because I think its overpriced and not really a big fan of ice cream per se, more of a froyo kind of girl. So, I can't speak to the quality of JP Lick's ice cream. But I can tell you that they serve a good cup of coffee. My morning hasn't properly begun until I have that first ice coffee (I know, even in winter). I can't put them above my all time Cambridge fav Carberry's but for now it is my go to spot. Obviously the green turf on the walls is a bit weird, as are all the cow paintings. But it reminds me of the pastures of New Mexico and brightens my morning...especially when I can trick myself into feeling a little less blue in these winter months.
(3)
Ryan L.

This place is awesome! There is a good amount of seating and it's a nice little hotspot across the street from Harvard. The employees are extremely lively and know how to make the best of the moderate space within the shop. The price is not too steep as you are given a huge amount of ice cream. I had the oreo cake batter which was pretty freakin' good. Definitely coming here again if I plan on coming back to Boston.
(5)
Sarah L.

Does Harvard Square REALLY need another small batch ice cream shop? Ok ok, I surrender. You don't have to twist MY arm. It's tasty! Does it stand out? Mneeehnot really. Got a freshly packed pint of mint chip and cake batter, and it was a hit all around. I liked - nay, loved - the slightly-softer-than-hardserve consistency. But there's nothing to draw me away from Herrell's, and nothing can stand in the way of Berryline. NB: I sampled the watermelon sorbet, because I thought that might showcase their creativity and excellence. The experience was less summery goodness and more like eating frozen watermelon flavored Lip Smackers a la fifth grade.
(3)
Jenna H.

I'll be honest, I don't go to JP Licks that often because it is against my principles to pay $5 for a small one topping ice cream, but when I'm really splurging there's almost nothing better. They have tons of different flavors, and also different types of ice cream; frozen yogurt, frozen yogurt made with splenda, "hard yogurt" (which I'm still not sure what that means), and they also have coffee and a decent pastry selection. The Cappuccino Crunch ice cream is my favorite!
(4)
Alex S.

The coffee oreo is a must-have! If I have anything to look forward to in the future, it would be to try more of their amazing flavors of ice-cream...and then in the frozen yogurt version! The pricing is not too bad; they give you a lot more for a single cone than you would think.
(4)
Anthony L.

it's good ice cream, but not the best. i would say not even better than ben & jerrys. also was impressed how the 1 scoop small was huge and shareable!
(4)
Alana H.

I've been coming here for years. When I was in college this establishment wasn't here and I was a frequenter of the Newbury Street satellite. Because my friend who I was saying with lived close by this is the one we came too. I got a kiddie size of the maple buttah walnut and I enjoyed every single bite of it. It was sweet and creamy and the best thing to eat at the end of the night. I also like that they have lots of options from sorbet, yogurt, and regular ice cream. They also have doggie treats so that your dog can enjoy a night out for ice cream as well. Hands down my favorite ice cream shop in Boston.
(5)
Sophie L.

This place is awesome! I've only been once and it happened to be free scoop day for all students. Double awesome! The shop is small but has character and the staff are friendly. Even with a line, no one muttered nasty things under their breath when I asked to sample one (possibly two) flavors. The ice cream is fluffy but creamy and rich all at the same time. They've got the traditional flavors and throw in a few exciting ones every month or so. Delicious! I'm a fan.
(4)
Zinat M.

"Homemade" (well storemade), expensive, yummy ice cream located in hopping Harvard Square. Of course it's good.
(4)
Juli R.

Great Ice Cream, best I had in Boston. All three in my group loved this place! I would have to say the service is very slow, but still friendly.
(4)
Angela S.

SO TASTY! The ice cream is delicious, the smoothies are okayyyyy. Not exactly their strength. The cookies are also great. Even when it's really busy, the line moves really fast.
(4)
Cobra K.

6 dolla ice cream cone? sick.
(3)
Peter M.

It's scary how much I love this joint. I don't usually like ice cream but I go out of my way to get some and never regret it. The service is fast and the bounty of flavors is enough to please even the pickiest of ice cream eaters.
(5)
Felicity L.

Their coffee is the best and their El Diablo hot chocolate is heaven!!! I love their atmosphere as well!!!
(5)
andrej s.

Great ice cream, poor service. I loved their ice cream, but after two poor customer service experiences, I decided not to come back: First, I came in one night, right around closing time, craving ice cream. There were people in the store and the doors were open. I walked in but was told they're closed. I pointed out the doors were open and no closed sign was on the door, they just repeated it's closing time. I checked my watch and it was *exactly* closing time, which meant I had clearly walked in before, nonetheless they insisted they were closed and would not serve me. 2. Second time. My wife had their frequent buyer card. We stopped in for ice cream, and she wanted to claim her rewards points, but didn't have the card on her. She asked if they could look her up by name and/or driver's license or whatever, they said flatly - no. Didn't even make an effort to try and find some way to locate her. I'm sorry, JP Licks, but having good ice cream is just NOT good enough. Step up that service if you want to keep your customers!
(1)
Megan G.

Rum raisin ice cream. Awesome. Lots of froyo options next to the classic 'cream and coffees. Cozy shop. Delish.
(4)
Chloe C.

Fairly good ice cream, especially for a chain! I particularily liked the cowtracks and they have some really good seasonal flavors! Unfortunatley, I have to knock off two stars because of the service. A few times I went in and the employees seemed too distracted with their personal lives and company drama to get my order right. I found it pretty unprofessional that they were gossiping about fellow employees right in front of all their customers.
(3)
Jon L.

Huge scoops, so tasty and delicious. White coffee ice cream is just amazing!
(5)
Keith S.

80+ degrees out. My summertime meter screams for ice cream. the parking meter fiends (once called meter maids) are also screaming round Harvard Square with hot colored tix. Easy for me to take the T to Harvard square and grab some great JP licks - Love the pure chocolate ice cream - and pure vanilla or chocolate is alwasy the toughest test for so called home mades - These folks are ok. no funny aftertaste. just pure cream and chocolate. Also - this is one of the few places I'll order non chocolate and be happy - with the black raspberry - it screams summer. I scream, you scream, we all scream for Ice cream. Thank you.
(4)
Mo M.

Oh man. This place serves delicious sweet treats, and some are sooo yummy you'll hardly believe that they're fat-free. My vote is for the non-fat peanut butter soft ice cream with two scoops of Captain Crunch. Although it's a little pricey ($4.95) for a small cup with one topping, that's a-okay with me. What's also nice is that this location is fantastic for people watching, especially if you get a good seat with three of your pals in the front window. You can spend hours checking people out and rating whether they're cute or not while chowing down on some frozen dairy or non-d snacks. Go to JP Licks for a fun alternative to drinking booze.
(4)
Li S.

Great coffee. Side walk seat.
(4)
Enay V.

Service was STELLAR!!! As crowded as it was, they never lost their heads. Servingmany people at once can suck ass but this staff handled it well. I even didn't get any attitude when i asked for samples! Love it - even if there's a line, it moves wicked fast.
(4)
J M.

Some of the best ice cream I've ever had!
(5)
Matthew H.

One word: overrated. JP Licks is perfectly adequate ice-cream, but it never ceases to amaze me how wildly popular this place is. I've eaten here a number of times and have tried a number of flavors, and each time I felt that the ice cream was thoroughly average. The prices are not particularly cheap either, so why bother? There are many better places to get ice cream in Boston.
(3)
Brooke C.

We got there one summer night, and after us a ton of people walked in and a long line formed. As we sat down inside to enjoy our ice cream, while the line was still really long, we got kicked out! The guy that worked there just said to us "we are closing and you guys need to leave!" I've never been treated so rudely before and been kicked out of an ice cream shop. I was there with 2 aunts, my mom and 3 cousins. I think I'll go to the one on Newbury street instead from now on.
(1)
H S.

SO GOOD. Has to be the best ice cream place in the area if it sells ice cream, smoothies, coffee, and sorbet (some flavors with alcohol in it!). It smells so good when you walk inside. I tried the black raspberry, yumm.
(4)
Eric M.

Oreo cookie dough and pumpkin custard. Wow. And Yummy.
(5)
Elisabeth A.

Num!! Came here on a cold day, got ice cream, and sat by the window for a couple hours chatting with friends. Good place to hang and people watch. I love the fake grass walls!! And the ice cream, of course. I can't remember what I got, something with peanut butter, but I know I really enjoyed it :P
(4)
Natalie M.

There's no finer place for ice cream in the area than JP's. I love their seasonal varieties, and have always had a good experience there. The staff is also very efficient and nice. Love it!
(5)
clare m.

although their ice cream is excellent (el diablo is my favorite flavor), the harvard square jp licks is getting a single star for their terrible customer service. there is no reason i should have to wait 25 minutes to get a cup of coffee. i don't chalk this up to the abilities of their employees, who always seem very friendly when i'm there. i blame the structure of the store's staffing; why do they have the same person assigned to the registers who's also responsible for making all of the drink orders???? shits be crazy! i was also dismayed to see their recent attempt to compete with berryline by introducing "yogurt X." stick to ice cream, jp licks.
(1)
Cristian Y.

So today I decided to try JP Licks' ice cream. There were many interesting flavors, but I decided to have the Oreo Cakebatter ice-cream. It was awesome! However, I think it's a little bit expensive, $4...
(4)
Gigi B.

The Harvard Square JP Licks location is by far the smallest and always seems to be the busiest due to constant flow of tourists in Harvard Square. But the same amazing ice cream and service can be found at this JP Licks location.
(5)
mickey l.

We got JP Licks brought to us at home, a half gallon with both vanilla and chocolate. I have truly enjoyed the quality and subtle but rich flavors as I sit on my couch during a heat spell.
(4)
lucy l.

This place is all about ice cream but it caught on the tangy yogurt craze. So the dÃ©cor is cute cows everywhere. They had a teacup seat like Disneyland's Alice in Wonderland. They use a froyo called Frozen X Yogurt and it was on the nail. It tasted good! The toppings were all for ice cream. I picked the coconut because it was the only froyo friendly topping BUT I also asked to add a regular cone. The cone did it! It made it so much better that I think all froyo should have cones!
(5)
KebShi L.

black raspberry ice cream. do it.
(3)
T K.

I was a fan for a while. Then one day I got a bad batch of a Frappe and after that I feel like the taste of the ice cream just went down hill for me. I'm not a ice cream fan normally so I move on from it very quickly.
(3)
Ginnette P.

love the spinach and cheese croissants, black raspberry ice cream, great coffee and the manischewitz sorbet was delicious!
(5)
Stan B.

Place is great. I mean... I'm from a small town outside of Boston that has 2 ice cream places in town that make their own.. on site. But for the city I haven't found any place better than Licks. The portions are better than the competition down the road. The flavor is ahhhhmazing. Check it out.
(4)
Loren P.

Even though a lot of people think of JP Licks as just an ice cream shop, it is in fact way more. They have over 30 different brands of coffee, all fair trade. The coffee selection is really quite impressive and is actually pretty good. I had a small french vanilla, with yes sugar and cream. It was hot and had a good flavor to it. I bought a pack of Ethiopian coffee, to try something different. The atmosphere is very pleasant at everytime of day.
(4)
Doika P.

Average ice cream place. Decent selection. Small location and over crowded. Maybe I need to try more flavors but I did not see what all the fuss is about. I have been to much better ice cream parlors with better atmosphere, more room, more flavors, more elaborate sundaes, etc. Really more the for the Harvard student crowd.
(3)
Anne B.

Wow! Ice cream goodness. I was walking down the street and it just looked interesting. I hardly ever turn down ice cream, even on a full stomach. Anyway, I walked in and saw a large menu with plenty of ice cream/yogurt/drink options. I opted for the oreo cakebatter - great choice. For a small scoup with plenty of oreo pieces and only $4, its just good!
(4)
Kiki B.

omg omg omg. it is both the best and the worst possible news that there is now a jp here. the cake batter is the most amazing thing you've ever tasted, and then you try the oreo cake batter and the world is complete.
(5)
Clayton N.

The ice cream is great. But would it be too difficult for this shop to follow a few standard sanitation measures? Two times I've been in this shop, they've been scooping ice cream without gloves, and then handling money at the register. I've also seen employees sneezing around the ice cream, and one guy popping a piece of cone into his mouth and chewing it with his mouth wide open. Note to management: familiarize your employees with health department regs.
(2)
Resa W.

ugh. divinity!!!!
(4)
andrew g.

second only to bon bon in symphony. went here after touring harvard with a friend from out of town. it's got places to sit unlike bon bon and always has amazing flavors.
(4)
Jo B.

What's not to like about JP Licks? Good ice cream, somewhat unique selection of flavors and toppings and friendly service. My favorite flavor is the oreo cake batter ice cream. Don't know what it is, but whenever I'm craving ice cream, I instantly think of this on a waffle cone and want to head over to JP Licks. I only wish there was one closer to my house.
(4)
Dee C.

they have the best ice cream and yogurt ever!
(5)
Andrew K.

we were in town for some serious eating....from word of mouth we stumbled across an ice cream shop that has the decor of cows everywhere! from the looks of our first visit, there's always a line, and looks like it usually moves quickly!. with classic as well as inventive flavors....this is the destination if you're craving a cone or cup of ice cream on "1310 Massachusetts Ave.".... the toppings bar has just as much variety with an array of fruits, candies and other edible accessories.... the ice cream shop is small though, so it can be hard sometimes when it's busy to find a place to sit...(we sat outside of "au ban pain".) =x i'm not a big fan of frozen yogurt, but i tried their "yotango".....it was very good! the only problem was the center of it was all AIR! my friends had the coffee and rum raisin in a cup....when we were done with our yotango, i ran back for another cup of rum raisin, to share with someone sweet... i would definitely recommend this place to everyone!
(5)

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Address : 1312 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA, 02138
Phone (617) 492-1001
Website https://www.jplicks.com
Click To Get Directions

Opening Hours

Mon :7:00 am - 12:00pm

Specialities

Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Dessert
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : Yes
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Casual
Noise Level : Average
Alcohol : No
Outdoor Seating : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : Yes
Good for Working : No

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JP Licks

1312 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA, 02138

JP Licks Menu

This Month's Flavors

Lactose - Free Sorbet Sherbet

Regular Ice Cream Flavors

Hard Frozen Yogurt Flavors

Toppings-dry Toppings

Toppings-wet Toppings

Frappes Smoothies & Moolattas

Sundaes Splits & Other Treats

Healthy Meal suggestions for JP Licks

This Month's Flavors

Lactose - Free Sorbet Sherbet

Regular Ice Cream Flavors

Hard Frozen Yogurt Flavors

Toppings-dry Toppings

Toppings-wet Toppings

Frappes Smoothies & Moolattas

Sundaes Splits & Other Treats

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