The staff here seems to be becoming more professional as of late, and more respectful about how their behavior effects the customer's experience. The music is still a little too loud sometimes, but the place seems cleaner, more organized, and friendlier service. Keep me coming back for more.
(4)
Rajiv R.
If you have just finished lunch in a Jamaica Plains Restaurant or just cruising through the area, a stop at J. P. Licks may just be what you need to brighten your day. The ice creams are simply great. On my visit, I tried the Pistachio and Coconut almond chip. Both were simply rich and delicious. This is a must visit if you are in the JP area. I'll be there soon to try their famous espressos.
(4)
Jane K.
I like this location. Maybe it's that it's the original location but I enjoy being able to eat outside on the cow patterned tables and just eat my ice cream on a warm day. 3 stars cuz the ice cream I feel is just OK compared to others I've had in the area. (see my other reviews) There isnt' a specific flavor I get here but usually the sweet creams seem to be good and their special flavors are hit or miss. They do a pretty good green tea and I hear their thai iced tea is good when it's in season. Please try the flavor before you get it. esp if you're thinking of getting a scoop of pad thai or wasabi ice cream... weird.
(3)
s s.
whoa, are their cone sizes getting smaller and smaller? Husband just came home with ice cream he got to go, and my "small" was microscopic, half a scoop at best! disappointing. two stars because the coffee oreo was adequately tasty. Ron's in Hyde Park & Dedham has the yummiest ice cream in the area, reasonably priced, and generous sized scoops.
(2)
Alyssa N.
So many flavors, so little time to try them all. Among the stand-outs have been Manischewitz-flavored (to celebrate Rosh ha Shana. the Jewish New Year, in September), sangria, coconut almond, and coffee Oreo. I love that this store, the 'mother ship' has a fireplace, making it so easy to enjoy ice cream in the dead of winter. Oh, and they're really nice to dogs. Update: Pomegranate sorbet is a must try!
(4)
julie p.
This place has gone WAY DOWNHILL! I have been in twice in the last 3 weeks and ended up walking out both times because of the AWFUL service. Today 4 other people in line walked out behind me too. They have a bunch of grungy, not clean (hello, this is a FOOD business), lazy, obnoxious jerks running this place, and the attitude is beyond words. You work in and ice cream store -- how hard can this be? I'm not asking the guru to pick stocks in our terrible economy -- I just want a frappe. Stood in line for 15 minutes with 2 people ahead of me, then they couldn't find any syrup. Last time I ordered a pint to go and they didn't have lids. No Joke. The "help" acts like they could care less. Too busy worrying about their multiple facial piercings (GROSS) and next tattoo. They have exactly ONE flavor that is chocolate-based : plain chocolate. That's it. They call themselves gourmet ice cream, but what they really are is a sorry excuse for Emac & Bolio or Herrells, with obnoxious arrogant idiots behind the counter. The whole place is a joke and they need to fire everyone in there - including the ice cream maker! I'll never go back.
(1)
Brian C.
This first JP Licks is my favorite of all in Boston. They have a variety of seating from comfy leather seats to two-person cafe chairs. Everything on their menu is good. I would recommend adding an expresso line.
(4)
William W.
Horray for lactose free ice cream! I also find that the Yo-Tango is easy to digest as well. I love the layout of the JP location, especially with the fireplace sitting area. The outdoor seating is nice. Efficient, but nice. It is also a bit pricey but I suppose you pay for what you get (in a good way).
(4)
Sean L.
Mmm yet another wonderful JP Licks. I don't know the magnitude of this chain as I've only ever seen the one on Newbury Street and this one, now just a short drive from my apartment in JP. With this place come the lines, but as usual they move fast. One thing this place has that the Newb. St. store does not is a great outdoor seating area. Make sure to get CAKE BATTER milkshake or some variation of the cake batter flavored ice cream. Trust me, it's heaven on your tongue.
(4)
Emily S.
Honestly, I wasn't a fan of this place the first three or four times I went. No description of "milk shake" yielded me the milk shake I imagined. Certainly not the thickness. Guess that's a NY thing. The staff always seems a little unsure of what's being asked- I guess they have a high turn over. It's pricey for ice cream. Redeeming quality: best ice cream cake I have EVER had! Their chocolate explosion was everything it could be and more. I expect crunchies in my ice cream cake but instead this has fudge. Equally awesome but we got a side of crushed oreo bits to "dip" in. Made it feel like the cake I was used to on steroids! In short, I'm sorry they don't live up to my milk shake standards and cost more than I'm used to, but damn, can they make an ice cream cake!
(3)
Lauren C.
Don't waste your calories. I've given JP Licks a couple tries, a couple earnest tries. With every visit they disappoint even further. It's rather amazing, actually, how reliably underwhelming this place is. Don't get me wrong, I wanted to like JP Licks. Who doesn't want to fall in Yelpable love with a local ice cream shop boasting creative flavors and wifi? Nobody. It's a sure sell, which turns out to be one of this establishment's biggest weaknesses: the smugness. From the surly hipster scoopers to the overbearing management, JP Licks has a serious attitude problem. Which would okay, I mean, it would be bearable if their ice cream was anything to rave about. It's not. The chocolate is chalky, the cookies and cream has an artificial sweetness about it, and they even fudged up the fudge swirl. So why go somewhere where everyone is a dick and the ice cream is sub par? The public library has free wifi, more welcoming management, and better food.
(1)
R F.
Awesome after-date place to go for ice cream. I love the space inside and outside and the layout is great. The line moves quick, the selection is awesome, and the ice cream is great. It's kind of expensive ($3 or $4 for a cone of ice cream) but it's worth it. The lights inside are really cool and the art selection they have hanging I like too. Well worth my visit and money and I will be coming back here again...
(4)
Ryan S.
Ice cream and atmosphere are excellent. Liberal laptop lingering policy. Coffee is meh, breakfast and lunch selections pretty weak, go for what they're good at and you'll be happy.
(4)
Matthew A.
Good ice cream, but EXPENSIVE!!!! So- so baked goods and terrible coffee. Ok for once in a while or special occasion. Hard to justify to drop the cash when one can cross the street and buys a pint of Ben and Jerry's for $3.00
(2)
Kevin K.
Free wireless and great customer service. Also, they serve fair trade coffee. Usually, people need to wait in line to be served. However, a small group of seniors, who would have a tough time waiting in line sat down at a table. One of the staff kindly waited on them and brought their order. It was precious. 5 stars.
(5)
Angie G.
Where I grew up, we didn't have an amazing ice cream shop that made their own on site. We didn't have a shop that roasted their own coffee beans on site. We definitely didn't have a shop that did ice cream, coffee, pastries, lattes, and sweetness all in one place. So what makes JP Licks better than the rest? Well, its easy. Its local, its fair prices, the staff rocks, the ambience is homey, and its located close enough to walk to, but just far enough to make me not feel like a fatty and indulge on a daily basis. 'Sides, my pocket can't afford ice cream everyday. =c)
(4)
Maryn H.
I love the original store the best, but all locations are good!!! I tend to go with the yogurt because it's lower in fat and it tastes just like the real stuff! The waitstaff is friendly and the place is always packed. And who doesn't enjoy the giant cow!?
(4)
ChianWen T.
My many an evening of roaming the streets of JP in a quest to find a habitable apartment led me to JP Licks when I needed repast. I ordered a milkshake of sorts. The milkshakes at JP Licks were huge, but they didn't bring the boys to the yard. It seems to be such a happening place and there are still many things on the menu to try, so, I will be back.
(4)
Jessica T.
When I first arrived in Boston, my friends took me one to the local hangouts. I was expecting a divy bar, or packed pool hall. I was surprised to find out that J.P. Licks is a popular Jamaica Plain spot, to meet up with friends and concoct some amazing milkshakes and ice-cream fantasies. They're open early, have friendly service, and the benches outside are always nice for chilling on a nice day in Jamaica Plain. I'm not a huge coffee drinker - but the white coffee - definitely peaked my interest, and was great.
(4)
Amy C.
On my Yelp sliding scale of stars (say that one 5 times fast!), I generally give establishments 5 stars when MY personal experience has been super good, and I walk away happy and satisfied. I wish that for JP LIcks I could give about 500 stars! We were driving around Allston/Brighton/JP Saturday night, trying to kill some time while the kid was at a show. Dan, friggin' awesome husband that he is, stopped here. The line was pretty long (I imagine much longer in the summer), but moved quickly. The people that work here are really very patient and sweet, especially as I noticed one particular lady asking to sample pretty much every one of their gazillion flavors, and the girl behind the counter smiling pleasantly. I would have hit that lady with a waffle cone, personally. I digress... I was stuck between a bunch of flavors; do I want the Peanut Butter Nipple? *Ripple, but on the board, the R really is more like an N, which had me embarassing Dan by laughing pretty heartily. I have the maturity of a teenage boy, whatev.* The Negative Chip? The Margarita or Fresh Hibiscus Lemon Sorbets? The Cherry Ortiz? Ahhhhhhh... too many yummy choices! I finally settled on a cone of Fresh Banana Oreo (a May flavor) and Sweet Cream Oreo. With rainbow sprinkles, naturally. Oh my word, it was so delicious! As we sat at one of the tables outside, enjoying the perfect May evening, I think I was humming as I ate my ice cream cone. (Dan got the EXTREME Chocolate, and that rocked, too.) Wicked delish ice cream, and it's in an old converted firestation, which is pretty cool. Love it!
(5)
Wendy G.
If it weren't for J.P. Licks I wouldn't have any good childhood memories to recreate with my own kids. The decor is eye catching and they often feature local art for sale. The ice cream is phenomenal, a little pricey, but you want quality right? The Oreo is my kids fave and the coconut fudge chip is mine. Also the Raspberry Lime Rickey is the best and I'm not a raspberry lover. They used to make a Peach ice cream with the fuzz and all, but I think they may have discontinued making it :-(
(4)
Jenn H.
My fav. place :) they have the best ice cream, shakes, rasberry lime rickies. this is the original J.P. Licks i feel as there only should be one. The staff are wayy cool kids and super nice. you can sit inside or outside. It is always super packed with really long lines but thats ok cuz going to jp licks is mighty fine. and their really quick and do it with a smile :) it smells of fresh milk, vanilla, and coffee beans, cuz they make their own coffee beans here. oh and once you walk in its really cool, like air refreshing cool, that keeps out the hotness from outside, and they have a chalkboard for kids, and couches, and you can post flyers here, and it has bathrooms. :)
(5)
Huan z.
This is the original JP licks. I often go there when I lived in JP. I like the seating outside. when the sun is strong, you can also pick seat inside and they have the curtain on for you. Ice creams are very yummy. One of the top in Boston area. Now, they also have one store in Brookline and another at Davis Sq.
(3)
Jamie M.
I love this place!! it has the best ice cream ever, great bagels, and more. The JP Licks in JP is the best because of the setting! The building is so cool and the people are so nice! JP licks has smothies and more!! It is great!! Go there PLEASE!!
(5)
S B.
Oh man, I wish they still made their black bottom pie! You have to special order it now, and it's just not quite the same. But the ice cream is still really good, and they have a wide and unusual selection. The frozen yogurt is solid too, with lots of good flavors beyond chocolate/vanilla - like peanut butter!
(4)
robert o.
This place is great. The ice cream is top notch. What I like is you can come here in the morning or afternoon and hang out. The place is comfy. The coffee is fantastic and roasted on premise. the fact that they are open at 6 am is remarkable. The lines get long on a nice day but everything their is worth it.
(5)
Julez J.
Despite the fact that this doesn't happen very often, I have recently suffered bad customer service. I guess this all stems from comparing this JP licks to the one I used to live near in Brigham Circle but I digress. My room mate and I wanted to just run in a grab an iced coffee before running some errands. We were in a bit of a hurry and it wasn't that busy. There was a family at the ice cream end of the counter still deciding on what they wanted so my room mate and I go to stand near the register to order our drinks. The girl behind the counter came up to us and she abrasively asked us if we waited in line. Stop me if I am wrong, but it is my opinion that you shouldn't have to wait in the ice cream section of the counter for iced coffee! I never had that problem at the one in Brigham Circle.
(3)
Jeff L.
At night, I get the soft non-fat chocolate yogurt. In the morning, I get a coffee and a low-fat blueberry muffin. I'd say everything tastes like any other store but it has a great local artistic vibe.
(5)
Dan C.
This isn't bad ice cream - it's not like you'll put it in your mouth and want to spit it out like Baskin Robbins or something, but yeah, not a fan. I feel you have to work hard to eat this ice cream - it's a harder than I think it should be making the flavor difficult to appreciate. Also really expensive and not really that exciting a selection of flavors. It is nice though that this location offers you a place to sit with the laptop for a while if you want and all that. Overall disappointed though.
(2)
Max B.
If you're looking for the best ice cream in the Boston area, you might as well start with JP Licks. With 7 locations (including Newbury St. in Boston, Davis Square in Somerville, and Coolidge Corner in Brookline), this small, independent chain has been running since it was a single store in 1981. All their ice cream is produced in the flagship Jamaica Plain store where they also roast their own coffee. The quality of food and service are both excellent, but if you're coming in on a summer evening, expect a 10-20 minute wait, and no matter what time of year you come, expect to pay out the nose (think 5 bucks for a medium with a topping). The Licks boasts unique seasonal flavors (from wasabi to cucumber to Sam Adams Cream Stout) and is always friendly and delicious, albeit unbelievably expensive.
(4)
Georgia Y.
I dig me some JP Licks. Not ONLY does it rep the neighborhood, it's got a great COW motif. Seriously, though: the ice cream is a little pricey, but it's delicious, the staff are generally deserving of good tips, and I love to have a cup of coffee or share a sundae while reading the Phoenix. Points off for two things: not emptying the trash cans and not kicking out the people who inevitably HOG the fireplace on a chilly night (note: IF YOU DIDN'T BUY ANYTHING, MOVE!)
(4)
Flora B.
It was too d.g. cold to eat ice cream the day I went in early February... but the hot chocolate was marvelous and I liked the vibe there.
(5)
michelle p.
I like their ice cream for sure, maple walnut, yum. I just bought a s'mores sundae and it was the worst sundae I've ever had. The marshmallow was completely forgotten about and they put crusty burnt hot fudge on top. I was sad when I got home because I trudged threw the hale to specifically get this sundae. Oh well. Just stick with the ice cream people.
(3)
D M.
I love JP Licks. Why do I give them only three stars then? Because a quart of ice cream to take home is nearly $9, which seems a little bit exessive to me, even though it's awesome ice cream. I went here with our little brother the other day after hitting up the buffet at Bukara, so we got ice cream to go for later. He chose the peanut butter chocolate chip cookie dough chunk, which was as delicious as the name was long. I love ice cream, and the love of ice cream that the city of Boston holds. VIVA LA ICE CREAM! I will pay my money for the awesome ice cream, though I might complain about it every now and again.
(3)
B D.
Excellent hot chocolate. Very good ice cream (to compare: Toscanini's is overly creamy. JP licks ice cream has near perfect texture and taste, but I think it takes a back seat to Emack and Bolio's.) Atrocious sherberts; do NOT get a serving of sherbert without asking for a sample first. Sorbets are hit-or-miss (orange cranberry is very good, if you like cranberries.) Hard yogurt is usually very good. Very good hot chocolate. Staff is almost always friendly, quick, and obliging (especially with 'samplers' like myself who try a flavor before committing.) I've always found the portions generous- a "medium" seems HUGE. Fairly often the music is unoffensive and fresh, though one time, I was fighting over the sound of loud rap music to converse with a friend. Unfortunately, the local student population considers "bought a cup of coffee" license to camp out for several hours with their laptops sucking down the free wifi, while patrons circle looking for tables. It'd be nice if the staff did something to mitigate, though I'm not sure I see any practical way to do so...
(4)
Chris G.
These emo-scenesters charge way too much and I think they are cooler than me, but I care for their chocolate malt frappe a great deal.
(3)
Bonnie G.
Woe is I, who cannot have ice cream as this is a social center of JP! BUT: They do have SOY and make a good iced soy chai as well as iced cafe mocha soy (though at a comparable price to Starbucks which kinda sucks). Oddly enough, their bagels ROCK! Really! Reminds me of the NYC style bagels I grew up on...yumyumyum. ALSO: $2.99 belgian waffle specials on the weekends! 2.99 gets you one large fluffy waffle (which my dining companions said reminded them of cafeteria waffles, but I thought it was yummers), butter from BEAVER VALLEY and syrup. They got tons o toppins so I would go buck wild if I had more cash or money or decision making skills.
(4)
L-Train A.
BEST FROZEN YOGURT EVER! Seriously people, you can not tell that it is not ice cream. The hard yogurt is in fact better than most ice cream. Mint chip hard yogurt is amazing. Portions are generous - a small is about a cup. The line moves quickly, and this store is great for people watching with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. One drawback, hot fudge is not hot enough so it gets gelatinous instead of creating an ice cream and fudge moat.
(5)
You F.
Hugely overpriced, self-important yuppiedrome (in the yuppie Habitrail that is Centre Street in JP these days) that needs to get its head out of its ass and understand that pouring twice as much sugar and flavoring into ice cream doesn't necessarily make it better. Sometimes, plain old coffee ice cream is OK and Expressoplosion Caffiegasm Iced Yoghurt is a repulsive affectation only designed to assuage the ego of the failed art school student turned confectioner. No one cares if the chicks at the counter smile either. No one ever gave me the finger at Brighams - and the ice cream is better at half the price. Bottom line: they're not surving frozen bat shit but it's not worth what they're charging as long as Brighams is in town.
(2)
Jeff W.
Getting to go to the original JP licks is one of the best parts of living here. I love the rotating menu of flavors -- I try to pick a different one every time I'm here (which is usually about once a week) and I've never had one I didn't enjoy. The staff are usually pretty helpful and easy to talk to, the seating is comfortable (although on weekends it can be hard to find a seat!) and there's cool local (?) art hanging on the walls. This is one of the places I always try to take friends who are visiting JP.
(5)
Jennifer K.
love jp licks, and so does my dog kona. we like to go although during the summer nights, the line can be long and out the door but there are always a bunch of dogs tied up outside drooling over the ice cream. Love the oreo cookie ice cream, i'm salivating just like pavlov's dogs thinking about it!
(5)
Sam S.
I've always found JP Licks to be highly over-rated, their ice cream is just not that creamy. It takes more than wacky flavors to get my vote. The JP store definitely is a looker but again, I think its a distraction from its below average ice cream.
(2)
Howard E.
Jp Licks is a Boston institution, and a pretty decent place to get Ice Cream. What's often forgotten is they also are the only coffee roasters in the Hub! Great coffee, decent ice cream, if only they would ban the mass of seemingly unattended children from the hours of 9am-12pm. Ok I guess it is an ice cream shop, but still..
(4)
emily d.
Let's talk about the Oatmeal Cookie frozen yogurt. No, let's not - I'm drooling.
(5)
Lili X.
The highlight of our visit clearly came when the amused barista (scooperer?) let us try the Cow Paws (I think that's what it was called?) ice cream - which is actually made for dogs. It tastes kind of like bland sour yogurt with a hint of peanut... not bad for pet food!
(5)
Shaye J.
cake batter. amazing. but kind of pricey. and bad if you're watching your weight. so. four stars it is.
(4)
Malaisha W.
Variety of flavors of ice cream, sherbet, sorbet and frozen yogurt. The ice cream is very tasty. They are a bit pricey and are very crowded, but I will go again and again as it is near my house and sometimes I crave good ice cream.
(4)
Julie A.
i heart J.P. Licks. good stuff!
(4)
Angel S.
Banana Split
(5)
Eve G.
This place deserves five stars because it's not only an ice cream shop, but also a great place to grab a nice cup of coffee in the wee early morning hours. The staff were super friendly when I came at 6:30 in the morning the other day. Perhaps they had already had their daily dosage of coffee, but I think its nice to be greeted with a smile that early in the morning. Also, the frozen yogurt (which actually has more sugar in it than ice cream for all those people who thought it was better for you) is great. I personally like the yogurt because of the texture. Try the oatmeal yogurt. Incredible. Even better is the oatmeal yogurt mixed into a rootbeer float. YUM! Many people make a face when I mention this combo, but once they try it, their hooked.
(5)
Mack T.
There have been many times that an ice cream cone from JP Licks has salvaged what seemed like an irretrievably shitty day. And when oreo cakebatter, once a temporary flavor, moved to the permanent roster, JP Licks became my personal hero. The fact that they stay open until midnight year-round (none of this "summer hours" bullshit) makes them even better. If I could give them ten stars, I would.
(5)
Carrie S.
Being an "insider", I can say a lot about JP Licks. I've worked here since Sept. 2006. Being a employee, I don't have much to complain about. Well, Maybe a bit but I'm not going to go there haha. As a customer, I could complain about the prices or ice cream and yogurt, but, if you're buying bulk ice cream, like pints and quarts, you can't go wrong. 5 and 8 dollars are really cheap for great, homemade ice cream. If you didn't know, everything we have is produced in the kitchen in the back. I think thats awesome. All the coffee is roasted in the store. I have a few complaints, one being that there is no recycling and another being that there are no coffee sleeves so we waste a lot of paper on extra cups. If you come in, and I don't ask you if you want a topping on your ice cream or frozen yogurt, just tell me, I'm not a big fan of wasting a paper cup because I have to put your ice cream in a bigger cup to put a topping on it. Oh, and, to all those people who love our free wireless, please please don't sit around for 8 hours and use it. You're taking up chairs that people who have bought more than just a single coffee or tea could be sitting on. I'm not telling you to not come to our store, just don't do pointless things for pointless hours at the expense of others. Our store is very popular and people like to sit in, so be considerate. We can't actual tell people to leave, so I'm sorry. we're working on signs though.
(4)
R S.
Excellent coffee. I'd give them 5-stars if they would have an "express coffee" line when it gets busy with ice-cream orders.
(4)
Matthew M.
JP Licks is pretty cool. Their ice cream is better than most of what you find at the supermarket and their coffee is a much welcomed alternative to Dunkin Donuts (why do people think DD has good coffee? It's roasted so light it still tastes "green!"), or Starbucks (good coffee, evil-pirate business practices). I also appreciate the wide variety of frozen yogurt flavors that they have. I like ice cream, sometimes too much, so it's nice to have (slightly) healthier alternatives beyond the standard chocolate and vanilla.
(4)
Abby L.
This place is the social center of JP, and it's GOOD! I was there tonight and had the Apple Crisp ice cream. SOOOO yummy. The flavors rotate, so you never know just what you're going to get. They are very patient about giving lots of samples of what they have, so your decision is made slightly easier. Sometimes I wish they had a few more stable things, so I could have an old stand-by, but this keeps me from getting into a rut. Great place. Go if you're in the area. You can't miss it. It's the big red brick building with a ginormous cow on the front!
(4)
Aaron H.
Absolutely the best ice cream you can buy. So good and always home made. So many great flavors. Along with all of the stand bys, they have a continually evolving list of inventive and delicious flavors. Christamas was all about the candy cane and gingerbread. Last night I had the chai. Normally, I'm a sucker for the mint chocolate chip. Throw in the comfy chairs, plentiful seating, a cozy fireplace, and a giant cow and you've got a sure winner. To top it all off, they are now offering free wi-fi. What's not to love?
(5)
Katy G.
How can you not love an ice cream parlor that has a life sized cow statue and a fireplace? Not to mention the excellent ice cream. There's a wide variety of hard ice creams, some softs, frozen yogurts, and sorbets. This summer they've added cox trax (a nifty peanut butter with chocolate chunks that doesn't go over the peanut butter threshold) and cake batter (apparently the new 'hot' flavor in the city, but they also have old favorites. Um, I don't know anyone whose tried the wasabi or hot sauce flavors yet, but I look forward to the facial reactions!
(4)
Kris K.
Whether you are a student studying, a group of children, or in need of some great ice cream/waffles/coffee, this is the place to kick back (Hours: 6am-midnight). The staff are fun and easy-going. The atmosphere is creative, large, and u-shaped enough for everyone to have their own area. Usually there's art on the walls from local artists, uniquely colored walls and a posting board near the restrooms. In the summer you can sit outside. The outdoors area has a more public area near the sidewalk and more private areas near the back.
(5)
Mike P.
Great Ice Cream. My favorite is the "Rum Raisin" (made with real rum). Also where else can you sit in a Disney-like tea-cup.
(5)
Zach C.
The ice cream is delicious, and living in the neighborhood almost makes sneaking over for a pint an economical option. The coffee (roasted in-house) is more than decent, and most on espresso duty can pull a good latte. Recently, they've ditched the booths in favor of even more small tables, welcoming the afternoon laptop squatters.
(5)
seana m.
I remeber the orginal JP Licks years ago. Now in a renovated firehouse, JP Licks is still in the heart of JP with cute tables outside and funky balck and white painted walls that look like cow hide. There are squiggly red neon lights that hang from the ceiling that look like udders and seating. It seems like there is always a line but it moves quick. The alternative, young staff is very helpful and super friendly. People watching is always a hoot. get anything from home brewed coofee drinks and frappes to low fat ice cream to frozen yogurt to soft servr to ice cream. They now have specials for the rerleased movie Charlie and the Chocolate factory. There is a vanilla mized with Wonka bars. I love the white coffee and the coffe oreo.
(5)
Karla V.
I have long been a JP Licks fan, but this is the only forum I could find to say: I've never seen a local business that is so hard to communicate with. Can't find a phone number for headquarters; there is absolutely zero way to communicate with them on their website. (Well, one time I tried to reach headquarters and you know what I tried? Putting the information on an employment application form. Sad. And I never heard back from anyone.) And get this: they're on Twitter, but no updates and don't follow anyone. So they apparently don't care much about hearing from their client base. So, JP Licks, if you guys care about your customers, start listening. And start using obvious and simple ways to communicate. A phone number, a "contact us" ability on the website, really easy stuff. Or possibly even Twitter! (But it means you have to follow and listen, not just sell your stuff.) Oh, and if I've got your attention, why no Chocolate Chocolate Chip yogurt? It used to come around every July. Now, no sign of it. I've dropped notes in the Suggestions box on this topic -- nothing. Well, maybe it means JP Licks has hit a tipping point, and it's time for a competitor that listens.
(2)
Melissa B.
Grew up eating ice cream here & still love it. Everything is awesome!
(5)
Jolene H.
The original JP Licks! YUM. Ice cream served from 6am to midnight every single day. This place understands the insatiable hunger of irrational human craving. What can I say- rich ice cream with wonderful coffee. I was on a high before, during and after my little visit.
(5)
greg f.
The game of war, like the game of Ice cream, is difficult to play. The fight for Ice cream is so challenging, yet so beautiful, that only a handful of players can truly do it with excellence. Postwar France had seen a cleaner, faster, more industrialized Ice Cream production that here in America, and suffered for it. JP licks best represents luxury treats for the working man, the proletariat, the stiff, the hipster, the dude who sings on the corner in which we want to beat up.
(5)
Jenn H.
My fav. place :) they have the best ice cream, shakes, rasberry lime rickies. this is the original J.P. Licks i feel as there only should be one. The staff are wayy cool kids and super nice. you can sit inside or outside. It is always super packed with really long lines but thats ok cuz going to jp licks is mighty fine. and their really quick and do it with a smile :) it smells of fresh milk, vanilla, and coffee beans, cuz they make their own coffee beans here. oh and once you walk in its really cool, like air refreshing cool, that keeps out the hotness from outside, and they have a chalkboard for kids, and couches, and you can post flyers here, and it has bathrooms. :)
(5)
Huan z.
This is the original JP licks. I often go there when I lived in JP. I like the seating outside. when the sun is strong, you can also pick seat inside and they have the curtain on for you. Ice creams are very yummy. One of the top in Boston area. Now, they also have one store in Brookline and another at Davis Sq.
(3)
Jamie M.
I love this place!! it has the best ice cream ever, great bagels, and more. The JP Licks in JP is the best because of the setting! The building is so cool and the people are so nice! JP licks has smothies and more!! It is great!! Go there PLEASE!!
(5)
S B.
Oh man, I wish they still made their black bottom pie! You have to special order it now, and it's just not quite the same. But the ice cream is still really good, and they have a wide and unusual selection. The frozen yogurt is solid too, with lots of good flavors beyond chocolate/vanilla - like peanut butter!
(4)
robert o.
This place is great. The ice cream is top notch. What I like is you can come here in the morning or afternoon and hang out. The place is comfy. The coffee is fantastic and roasted on premise. the fact that they are open at 6 am is remarkable. The lines get long on a nice day but everything their is worth it.
(5)
michelle p.
I like their ice cream for sure, maple walnut, yum. I just bought a s'mores sundae and it was the worst sundae I've ever had. The marshmallow was completely forgotten about and they put crusty burnt hot fudge on top. I was sad when I got home because I trudged threw the hale to specifically get this sundae. Oh well. Just stick with the ice cream people.
(3)
Julie A.
i heart J.P. Licks. good stuff!
(4)
Angel S.
Banana Split
(5)
Julez J.
Despite the fact that this doesn't happen very often, I have recently suffered bad customer service. I guess this all stems from comparing this JP licks to the one I used to live near in Brigham Circle but I digress. My room mate and I wanted to just run in a grab an iced coffee before running some errands. We were in a bit of a hurry and it wasn't that busy. There was a family at the ice cream end of the counter still deciding on what they wanted so my room mate and I go to stand near the register to order our drinks. The girl behind the counter came up to us and she abrasively asked us if we waited in line. Stop me if I am wrong, but it is my opinion that you shouldn't have to wait in the ice cream section of the counter for iced coffee! I never had that problem at the one in Brigham Circle.
(3)
Jeff L.
At night, I get the soft non-fat chocolate yogurt. In the morning, I get a coffee and a low-fat blueberry muffin. I'd say everything tastes like any other store but it has a great local artistic vibe.
(5)
Dan C.
This isn't bad ice cream - it's not like you'll put it in your mouth and want to spit it out like Baskin Robbins or something, but yeah, not a fan. I feel you have to work hard to eat this ice cream - it's a harder than I think it should be making the flavor difficult to appreciate. Also really expensive and not really that exciting a selection of flavors. It is nice though that this location offers you a place to sit with the laptop for a while if you want and all that. Overall disappointed though.
(2)
Max B.
If you're looking for the best ice cream in the Boston area, you might as well start with JP Licks. With 7 locations (including Newbury St. in Boston, Davis Square in Somerville, and Coolidge Corner in Brookline), this small, independent chain has been running since it was a single store in 1981. All their ice cream is produced in the flagship Jamaica Plain store where they also roast their own coffee. The quality of food and service are both excellent, but if you're coming in on a summer evening, expect a 10-20 minute wait, and no matter what time of year you come, expect to pay out the nose (think 5 bucks for a medium with a topping). The Licks boasts unique seasonal flavors (from wasabi to cucumber to Sam Adams Cream Stout) and is always friendly and delicious, albeit unbelievably expensive.
(4)
Georgia Y.
I dig me some JP Licks. Not ONLY does it rep the neighborhood, it's got a great COW motif. Seriously, though: the ice cream is a little pricey, but it's delicious, the staff are generally deserving of good tips, and I love to have a cup of coffee or share a sundae while reading the Phoenix. Points off for two things: not emptying the trash cans and not kicking out the people who inevitably HOG the fireplace on a chilly night (note: IF YOU DIDN'T BUY ANYTHING, MOVE!)
(4)
Flora B.
It was too d.g. cold to eat ice cream the day I went in early February... but the hot chocolate was marvelous and I liked the vibe there.
(5)
D M.
I love JP Licks. Why do I give them only three stars then? Because a quart of ice cream to take home is nearly $9, which seems a little bit exessive to me, even though it's awesome ice cream. I went here with our little brother the other day after hitting up the buffet at Bukara, so we got ice cream to go for later. He chose the peanut butter chocolate chip cookie dough chunk, which was as delicious as the name was long. I love ice cream, and the love of ice cream that the city of Boston holds. VIVA LA ICE CREAM! I will pay my money for the awesome ice cream, though I might complain about it every now and again.
(3)
B D.
Excellent hot chocolate. Very good ice cream (to compare: Toscanini's is overly creamy. JP licks ice cream has near perfect texture and taste, but I think it takes a back seat to Emack and Bolio's.) Atrocious sherberts; do NOT get a serving of sherbert without asking for a sample first. Sorbets are hit-or-miss (orange cranberry is very good, if you like cranberries.) Hard yogurt is usually very good. Very good hot chocolate. Staff is almost always friendly, quick, and obliging (especially with 'samplers' like myself who try a flavor before committing.) I've always found the portions generous- a "medium" seems HUGE. Fairly often the music is unoffensive and fresh, though one time, I was fighting over the sound of loud rap music to converse with a friend. Unfortunately, the local student population considers "bought a cup of coffee" license to camp out for several hours with their laptops sucking down the free wifi, while patrons circle looking for tables. It'd be nice if the staff did something to mitigate, though I'm not sure I see any practical way to do so...
(4)
Chris G.
These emo-scenesters charge way too much and I think they are cooler than me, but I care for their chocolate malt frappe a great deal.
(3)
Bonnie G.
Woe is I, who cannot have ice cream as this is a social center of JP! BUT: They do have SOY and make a good iced soy chai as well as iced cafe mocha soy (though at a comparable price to Starbucks which kinda sucks). Oddly enough, their bagels ROCK! Really! Reminds me of the NYC style bagels I grew up on...yumyumyum. ALSO: $2.99 belgian waffle specials on the weekends! 2.99 gets you one large fluffy waffle (which my dining companions said reminded them of cafeteria waffles, but I thought it was yummers), butter from BEAVER VALLEY and syrup. They got tons o toppins so I would go buck wild if I had more cash or money or decision making skills.
(4)
L-Train A.
BEST FROZEN YOGURT EVER! Seriously people, you can not tell that it is not ice cream. The hard yogurt is in fact better than most ice cream. Mint chip hard yogurt is amazing. Portions are generous - a small is about a cup. The line moves quickly, and this store is great for people watching with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. One drawback, hot fudge is not hot enough so it gets gelatinous instead of creating an ice cream and fudge moat.
(5)
You F.
Hugely overpriced, self-important yuppiedrome (in the yuppie Habitrail that is Centre Street in JP these days) that needs to get its head out of its ass and understand that pouring twice as much sugar and flavoring into ice cream doesn't necessarily make it better. Sometimes, plain old coffee ice cream is OK and Expressoplosion Caffiegasm Iced Yoghurt is a repulsive affectation only designed to assuage the ego of the failed art school student turned confectioner. No one cares if the chicks at the counter smile either. No one ever gave me the finger at Brighams - and the ice cream is better at half the price. Bottom line: they're not surving frozen bat shit but it's not worth what they're charging as long as Brighams is in town.
(2)
Jeff W.
Getting to go to the original JP licks is one of the best parts of living here. I love the rotating menu of flavors -- I try to pick a different one every time I'm here (which is usually about once a week) and I've never had one I didn't enjoy. The staff are usually pretty helpful and easy to talk to, the seating is comfortable (although on weekends it can be hard to find a seat!) and there's cool local (?) art hanging on the walls. This is one of the places I always try to take friends who are visiting JP.
(5)
Jennifer K.
love jp licks, and so does my dog kona. we like to go although during the summer nights, the line can be long and out the door but there are always a bunch of dogs tied up outside drooling over the ice cream. Love the oreo cookie ice cream, i'm salivating just like pavlov's dogs thinking about it!
(5)
Sam S.
I've always found JP Licks to be highly over-rated, their ice cream is just not that creamy. It takes more than wacky flavors to get my vote. The JP store definitely is a looker but again, I think its a distraction from its below average ice cream.
(2)
Howard E.
Jp Licks is a Boston institution, and a pretty decent place to get Ice Cream. What's often forgotten is they also are the only coffee roasters in the Hub! Great coffee, decent ice cream, if only they would ban the mass of seemingly unattended children from the hours of 9am-12pm. Ok I guess it is an ice cream shop, but still..
(4)
emily d.
Let's talk about the Oatmeal Cookie frozen yogurt. No, let's not - I'm drooling.
(5)
Lili X.
The highlight of our visit clearly came when the amused barista (scooperer?) let us try the Cow Paws (I think that's what it was called?) ice cream - which is actually made for dogs. It tastes kind of like bland sour yogurt with a hint of peanut... not bad for pet food!
(5)
Shaye J.
cake batter. amazing. but kind of pricey. and bad if you're watching your weight. so. four stars it is.
(4)
Malaisha W.
Variety of flavors of ice cream, sherbet, sorbet and frozen yogurt. The ice cream is very tasty. They are a bit pricey and are very crowded, but I will go again and again as it is near my house and sometimes I crave good ice cream.
(4)
Eve G.
This place deserves five stars because it's not only an ice cream shop, but also a great place to grab a nice cup of coffee in the wee early morning hours. The staff were super friendly when I came at 6:30 in the morning the other day. Perhaps they had already had their daily dosage of coffee, but I think its nice to be greeted with a smile that early in the morning. Also, the frozen yogurt (which actually has more sugar in it than ice cream for all those people who thought it was better for you) is great. I personally like the yogurt because of the texture. Try the oatmeal yogurt. Incredible. Even better is the oatmeal yogurt mixed into a rootbeer float. YUM! Many people make a face when I mention this combo, but once they try it, their hooked.
(5)
Mack T.
There have been many times that an ice cream cone from JP Licks has salvaged what seemed like an irretrievably shitty day. And when oreo cakebatter, once a temporary flavor, moved to the permanent roster, JP Licks became my personal hero. The fact that they stay open until midnight year-round (none of this "summer hours" bullshit) makes them even better. If I could give them ten stars, I would.
(5)
Carrie S.
Being an "insider", I can say a lot about JP Licks. I've worked here since Sept. 2006. Being a employee, I don't have much to complain about. Well, Maybe a bit but I'm not going to go there haha. As a customer, I could complain about the prices or ice cream and yogurt, but, if you're buying bulk ice cream, like pints and quarts, you can't go wrong. 5 and 8 dollars are really cheap for great, homemade ice cream. If you didn't know, everything we have is produced in the kitchen in the back. I think thats awesome. All the coffee is roasted in the store. I have a few complaints, one being that there is no recycling and another being that there are no coffee sleeves so we waste a lot of paper on extra cups. If you come in, and I don't ask you if you want a topping on your ice cream or frozen yogurt, just tell me, I'm not a big fan of wasting a paper cup because I have to put your ice cream in a bigger cup to put a topping on it. Oh, and, to all those people who love our free wireless, please please don't sit around for 8 hours and use it. You're taking up chairs that people who have bought more than just a single coffee or tea could be sitting on. I'm not telling you to not come to our store, just don't do pointless things for pointless hours at the expense of others. Our store is very popular and people like to sit in, so be considerate. We can't actual tell people to leave, so I'm sorry. we're working on signs though.
(4)
R S.
Excellent coffee. I'd give them 5-stars if they would have an "express coffee" line when it gets busy with ice-cream orders.
(4)
Matthew M.
JP Licks is pretty cool. Their ice cream is better than most of what you find at the supermarket and their coffee is a much welcomed alternative to Dunkin Donuts (why do people think DD has good coffee? It's roasted so light it still tastes "green!"), or Starbucks (good coffee, evil-pirate business practices). I also appreciate the wide variety of frozen yogurt flavors that they have. I like ice cream, sometimes too much, so it's nice to have (slightly) healthier alternatives beyond the standard chocolate and vanilla.
(4)
Abby L.
This place is the social center of JP, and it's GOOD! I was there tonight and had the Apple Crisp ice cream. SOOOO yummy. The flavors rotate, so you never know just what you're going to get. They are very patient about giving lots of samples of what they have, so your decision is made slightly easier. Sometimes I wish they had a few more stable things, so I could have an old stand-by, but this keeps me from getting into a rut. Great place. Go if you're in the area. You can't miss it. It's the big red brick building with a ginormous cow on the front!
(4)
Aaron H.
Absolutely the best ice cream you can buy. So good and always home made. So many great flavors. Along with all of the stand bys, they have a continually evolving list of inventive and delicious flavors. Christamas was all about the candy cane and gingerbread. Last night I had the chai. Normally, I'm a sucker for the mint chocolate chip. Throw in the comfy chairs, plentiful seating, a cozy fireplace, and a giant cow and you've got a sure winner. To top it all off, they are now offering free wi-fi. What's not to love?
(5)
Katy G.
How can you not love an ice cream parlor that has a life sized cow statue and a fireplace? Not to mention the excellent ice cream. There's a wide variety of hard ice creams, some softs, frozen yogurts, and sorbets. This summer they've added cox trax (a nifty peanut butter with chocolate chunks that doesn't go over the peanut butter threshold) and cake batter (apparently the new 'hot' flavor in the city, but they also have old favorites. Um, I don't know anyone whose tried the wasabi or hot sauce flavors yet, but I look forward to the facial reactions!
(4)
Kris K.
Whether you are a student studying, a group of children, or in need of some great ice cream/waffles/coffee, this is the place to kick back (Hours: 6am-midnight). The staff are fun and easy-going. The atmosphere is creative, large, and u-shaped enough for everyone to have their own area. Usually there's art on the walls from local artists, uniquely colored walls and a posting board near the restrooms. In the summer you can sit outside. The outdoors area has a more public area near the sidewalk and more private areas near the back.
(5)
Mike P.
Great Ice Cream. My favorite is the "Rum Raisin" (made with real rum). Also where else can you sit in a Disney-like tea-cup.
(5)
Zach C.
The ice cream is delicious, and living in the neighborhood almost makes sneaking over for a pint an economical option. The coffee (roasted in-house) is more than decent, and most on espresso duty can pull a good latte. Recently, they've ditched the booths in favor of even more small tables, welcoming the afternoon laptop squatters.
(5)
seana m.
I remeber the orginal JP Licks years ago. Now in a renovated firehouse, JP Licks is still in the heart of JP with cute tables outside and funky balck and white painted walls that look like cow hide. There are squiggly red neon lights that hang from the ceiling that look like udders and seating. It seems like there is always a line but it moves quick. The alternative, young staff is very helpful and super friendly. People watching is always a hoot. get anything from home brewed coofee drinks and frappes to low fat ice cream to frozen yogurt to soft servr to ice cream. They now have specials for the rerleased movie Charlie and the Chocolate factory. There is a vanilla mized with Wonka bars. I love the white coffee and the coffe oreo.
(5)
Karla V.
I have long been a JP Licks fan, but this is the only forum I could find to say: I've never seen a local business that is so hard to communicate with. Can't find a phone number for headquarters; there is absolutely zero way to communicate with them on their website. (Well, one time I tried to reach headquarters and you know what I tried? Putting the information on an employment application form. Sad. And I never heard back from anyone.) And get this: they're on Twitter, but no updates and don't follow anyone. So they apparently don't care much about hearing from their client base. So, JP Licks, if you guys care about your customers, start listening. And start using obvious and simple ways to communicate. A phone number, a "contact us" ability on the website, really easy stuff. Or possibly even Twitter! (But it means you have to follow and listen, not just sell your stuff.) Oh, and if I've got your attention, why no Chocolate Chocolate Chip yogurt? It used to come around every July. Now, no sign of it. I've dropped notes in the Suggestions box on this topic -- nothing. Well, maybe it means JP Licks has hit a tipping point, and it's time for a competitor that listens.
(2)
Melissa B.
Grew up eating ice cream here & still love it. Everything is awesome!
(5)
Alyssa N.
So many flavors, so little time to try them all. Among the stand-outs have been Manischewitz-flavored (to celebrate Rosh ha Shana. the Jewish New Year, in September), sangria, coconut almond, and coffee Oreo. I love that this store, the 'mother ship' has a fireplace, making it so easy to enjoy ice cream in the dead of winter. Oh, and they're really nice to dogs. Update: Pomegranate sorbet is a must try!
(4)
Jolene H.
The original JP Licks! YUM. Ice cream served from 6am to midnight every single day. This place understands the insatiable hunger of irrational human craving. What can I say- rich ice cream with wonderful coffee. I was on a high before, during and after my little visit.
(5)
s s.
whoa, are their cone sizes getting smaller and smaller? Husband just came home with ice cream he got to go, and my "small" was microscopic, half a scoop at best! disappointing. two stars because the coffee oreo was adequately tasty. Ron's in Hyde Park & Dedham has the yummiest ice cream in the area, reasonably priced, and generous sized scoops.
(2)
C J.
The staff here seems to be becoming more professional as of late, and more respectful about how their behavior effects the customer's experience. The music is still a little too loud sometimes, but the place seems cleaner, more organized, and friendlier service. Keep me coming back for more.
(4)
Rajiv R.
If you have just finished lunch in a Jamaica Plains Restaurant or just cruising through the area, a stop at J. P. Licks may just be what you need to brighten your day. The ice creams are simply great. On my visit, I tried the Pistachio and Coconut almond chip. Both were simply rich and delicious. This is a must visit if you are in the JP area. I'll be there soon to try their famous espressos.
(4)
Jane K.
I like this location. Maybe it's that it's the original location but I enjoy being able to eat outside on the cow patterned tables and just eat my ice cream on a warm day. 3 stars cuz the ice cream I feel is just OK compared to others I've had in the area. (see my other reviews) There isnt' a specific flavor I get here but usually the sweet creams seem to be good and their special flavors are hit or miss. They do a pretty good green tea and I hear their thai iced tea is good when it's in season. Please try the flavor before you get it. esp if you're thinking of getting a scoop of pad thai or wasabi ice cream... weird.
(3)
julie p.
This place has gone WAY DOWNHILL! I have been in twice in the last 3 weeks and ended up walking out both times because of the AWFUL service. Today 4 other people in line walked out behind me too. They have a bunch of grungy, not clean (hello, this is a FOOD business), lazy, obnoxious jerks running this place, and the attitude is beyond words. You work in and ice cream store -- how hard can this be? I'm not asking the guru to pick stocks in our terrible economy -- I just want a frappe. Stood in line for 15 minutes with 2 people ahead of me, then they couldn't find any syrup. Last time I ordered a pint to go and they didn't have lids. No Joke. The "help" acts like they could care less. Too busy worrying about their multiple facial piercings (GROSS) and next tattoo. They have exactly ONE flavor that is chocolate-based : plain chocolate. That's it. They call themselves gourmet ice cream, but what they really are is a sorry excuse for Emac & Bolio or Herrells, with obnoxious arrogant idiots behind the counter. The whole place is a joke and they need to fire everyone in there - including the ice cream maker! I'll never go back.
(1)
Brian C.
This first JP Licks is my favorite of all in Boston. They have a variety of seating from comfy leather seats to two-person cafe chairs. Everything on their menu is good. I would recommend adding an expresso line.
(4)
William W.
Horray for lactose free ice cream! I also find that the Yo-Tango is easy to digest as well. I love the layout of the JP location, especially with the fireplace sitting area. The outdoor seating is nice. Efficient, but nice. It is also a bit pricey but I suppose you pay for what you get (in a good way).
(4)
Sean L.
Mmm yet another wonderful JP Licks. I don't know the magnitude of this chain as I've only ever seen the one on Newbury Street and this one, now just a short drive from my apartment in JP. With this place come the lines, but as usual they move fast. One thing this place has that the Newb. St. store does not is a great outdoor seating area. Make sure to get CAKE BATTER milkshake or some variation of the cake batter flavored ice cream. Trust me, it's heaven on your tongue.
(4)
Emily S.
Honestly, I wasn't a fan of this place the first three or four times I went. No description of "milk shake" yielded me the milk shake I imagined. Certainly not the thickness. Guess that's a NY thing. The staff always seems a little unsure of what's being asked- I guess they have a high turn over. It's pricey for ice cream. Redeeming quality: best ice cream cake I have EVER had! Their chocolate explosion was everything it could be and more. I expect crunchies in my ice cream cake but instead this has fudge. Equally awesome but we got a side of crushed oreo bits to "dip" in. Made it feel like the cake I was used to on steroids! In short, I'm sorry they don't live up to my milk shake standards and cost more than I'm used to, but damn, can they make an ice cream cake!
(3)
Lauren C.
Don't waste your calories. I've given JP Licks a couple tries, a couple earnest tries. With every visit they disappoint even further. It's rather amazing, actually, how reliably underwhelming this place is. Don't get me wrong, I wanted to like JP Licks. Who doesn't want to fall in Yelpable love with a local ice cream shop boasting creative flavors and wifi? Nobody. It's a sure sell, which turns out to be one of this establishment's biggest weaknesses: the smugness. From the surly hipster scoopers to the overbearing management, JP Licks has a serious attitude problem. Which would okay, I mean, it would be bearable if their ice cream was anything to rave about. It's not. The chocolate is chalky, the cookies and cream has an artificial sweetness about it, and they even fudged up the fudge swirl. So why go somewhere where everyone is a dick and the ice cream is sub par? The public library has free wifi, more welcoming management, and better food.
(1)
R F.
Awesome after-date place to go for ice cream. I love the space inside and outside and the layout is great. The line moves quick, the selection is awesome, and the ice cream is great. It's kind of expensive ($3 or $4 for a cone of ice cream) but it's worth it. The lights inside are really cool and the art selection they have hanging I like too. Well worth my visit and money and I will be coming back here again...
(4)
Ryan S.
Ice cream and atmosphere are excellent. Liberal laptop lingering policy. Coffee is meh, breakfast and lunch selections pretty weak, go for what they're good at and you'll be happy.
(4)
Matthew A.
Good ice cream, but EXPENSIVE!!!! So- so baked goods and terrible coffee. Ok for once in a while or special occasion. Hard to justify to drop the cash when one can cross the street and buys a pint of Ben and Jerry's for $3.00
(2)
Kevin K.
Free wireless and great customer service. Also, they serve fair trade coffee. Usually, people need to wait in line to be served. However, a small group of seniors, who would have a tough time waiting in line sat down at a table. One of the staff kindly waited on them and brought their order. It was precious. 5 stars.
(5)
Angie G.
Where I grew up, we didn't have an amazing ice cream shop that made their own on site. We didn't have a shop that roasted their own coffee beans on site. We definitely didn't have a shop that did ice cream, coffee, pastries, lattes, and sweetness all in one place. So what makes JP Licks better than the rest? Well, its easy. Its local, its fair prices, the staff rocks, the ambience is homey, and its located close enough to walk to, but just far enough to make me not feel like a fatty and indulge on a daily basis. 'Sides, my pocket can't afford ice cream everyday. =c)
(4)
Maryn H.
I love the original store the best, but all locations are good!!! I tend to go with the yogurt because it's lower in fat and it tastes just like the real stuff! The waitstaff is friendly and the place is always packed. And who doesn't enjoy the giant cow!?
(4)
greg f.
The game of war, like the game of Ice cream, is difficult to play. The fight for Ice cream is so challenging, yet so beautiful, that only a handful of players can truly do it with excellence. Postwar France had seen a cleaner, faster, more industrialized Ice Cream production that here in America, and suffered for it. JP licks best represents luxury treats for the working man, the proletariat, the stiff, the hipster, the dude who sings on the corner in which we want to beat up.
(5)
ChianWen T.
My many an evening of roaming the streets of JP in a quest to find a habitable apartment led me to JP Licks when I needed repast. I ordered a milkshake of sorts. The milkshakes at JP Licks were huge, but they didn't bring the boys to the yard. It seems to be such a happening place and there are still many things on the menu to try, so, I will be back.
(4)
Jessica T.
When I first arrived in Boston, my friends took me one to the local hangouts. I was expecting a divy bar, or packed pool hall. I was surprised to find out that J.P. Licks is a popular Jamaica Plain spot, to meet up with friends and concoct some amazing milkshakes and ice-cream fantasies. They're open early, have friendly service, and the benches outside are always nice for chilling on a nice day in Jamaica Plain. I'm not a huge coffee drinker - but the white coffee - definitely peaked my interest, and was great.
(4)
Amy C.
On my Yelp sliding scale of stars (say that one 5 times fast!), I generally give establishments 5 stars when MY personal experience has been super good, and I walk away happy and satisfied. I wish that for JP LIcks I could give about 500 stars! We were driving around Allston/Brighton/JP Saturday night, trying to kill some time while the kid was at a show. Dan, friggin' awesome husband that he is, stopped here. The line was pretty long (I imagine much longer in the summer), but moved quickly. The people that work here are really very patient and sweet, especially as I noticed one particular lady asking to sample pretty much every one of their gazillion flavors, and the girl behind the counter smiling pleasantly. I would have hit that lady with a waffle cone, personally. I digress... I was stuck between a bunch of flavors; do I want the Peanut Butter Nipple? *Ripple, but on the board, the R really is more like an N, which had me embarassing Dan by laughing pretty heartily. I have the maturity of a teenage boy, whatev.* The Negative Chip? The Margarita or Fresh Hibiscus Lemon Sorbets? The Cherry Ortiz? Ahhhhhhh... too many yummy choices! I finally settled on a cone of Fresh Banana Oreo (a May flavor) and Sweet Cream Oreo. With rainbow sprinkles, naturally. Oh my word, it was so delicious! As we sat at one of the tables outside, enjoying the perfect May evening, I think I was humming as I ate my ice cream cone. (Dan got the EXTREME Chocolate, and that rocked, too.) Wicked delish ice cream, and it's in an old converted firestation, which is pretty cool. Love it!
(5)
Wendy G.
If it weren't for J.P. Licks I wouldn't have any good childhood memories to recreate with my own kids. The decor is eye catching and they often feature local art for sale. The ice cream is phenomenal, a little pricey, but you want quality right? The Oreo is my kids fave and the coconut fudge chip is mine. Also the Raspberry Lime Rickey is the best and I'm not a raspberry lover. They used to make a Peach ice cream with the fuzz and all, but I think they may have discontinued making it :-(
(4)
Seth E.
I have lived in many places across this great country and tried many an ice-cream. This is my hands down favorite. It's fresh and super creamy, and the flavors are plentiful but not "out there." JP Licks should be a must-go places in Boston for anyone visiting.
(5)
E. S.
A fun, playful atmosphere, typically very friendly workers, and, most importantly, delicious ice cream. The flavors are fantastic and they always have unique flavors of the months to change things up. No matter what flavor, it's always creamy and indulgent, just what you're looking for from ice cream. This place is a must in my mind and, if you're in the area, make sure to get a cow card because they actually do have great loyalty rewards.
(5)
San W.
Swung by last Sunday with b to grab a couple of cones. You scream, I scream! Or not. b got the peach, which was good but pretty sweet compared to the cucumber, which I decided to sample. I was surprised by how much I liked the cucumber! It was light and refreshing with small bits of cucumber mixed in. Perfect for summer. So good! I'm glad I went with that instead of the entire banana split I was half-seriously contemplating. Yeahhh...that would NOT have been a good idea. At all. Maybe another time. And yay for feeling completely obscene walking down the street frantically licking my cone to prevent any drippage. Anyone? Anyone?
(4)
Spencer T.
Folks, it doesn't get much better than this. If you've ever made your own ice cream, you know the difference than if you'd have bought it in the store. Any J.P. Licks is for real. I moved here a year ago and will surely miss these when I'm not on the East Coast any longer. Home made, glorious flavors, really fun, indie staff that truly care about indulging in happiness. :) Try the Chai, Cookie 'N Cake Batter, Diablo Chocolate, Coconut Almond....oh the list goes on. If the line is long, wait. You'll be happy.
(5)
Kristen R.
It was 60-something degrees outside on a Friday night, and there was a line out the door. I had their cookie dough ice cream, which was very tasty. I also tried their extreme chocolate ice cream, which is one of their flavors of the month. If I'm ever in the area again, I'd try their frozen yogurts.
(4)
Jessica O.
Forget about the hype - this place is DELICIOUS. The line move fast, there's plenty of seating, and the flavors are simply out of this world. You won't regret your visit here - there's pretty much something for everyone. Unless you're lactose intolerant then hey...there's coffee? Well worth the visit.
(4)
Nguyen P.
Been going here for years for raspberry lime rickeys, ice cream sundaes and ice cream cakes. The froyo is pretty bomb.com as well, I usually go for Yogurt X or Mango X. Can't speak for the coffee, but I do love their Coffee Oreo ice cream! It gets busy, but it's worth the wait.
(5)
Tania L.
First off... try and resist the temptation to take a pic with the cow... I dare you, DOUBLE DOG DARE YOU!! I could NEVER... ever .. EVER resist! Secondly, when a place has been able to remain open for so long (1981 is when it got founded) there has to be more than pretty faces and nice flavors. I, being Italian, ADORE gelato and am not a huge fan of overly sweet and ever so elaborate flavors. Every Single time i got me a JP Licks' ice cream or sorbet, i have been positively pleased and just spoiled. Unlike some other reviewers, i found the staff to be ever so courteous and happy to be part of the team. When you want to a enjoy a good ice cream, key ingredients are: patience, love and ... TIME. If you step in cranky, in a rush and already mad, you may find it difficult to enjoy your treat and be met with a smile ...
(5)
Garkie Z.
First time here and I'm definitely not disappointed! We ordered a small scoop of the sweet cream as well as a small of the their mojito sorbet and both were very delicious. For the amount the price is kinda pricey- overall our total was just over $8. Definitely a nice place for a meet over coffee or ice cream. Lots of tables and very well air conditioned for a warm day! Staff is very efficient and nice. Would definitely recommend coming here if you're looking for a cold sweet to cool you down!
(4)
Alicia S.
Delicious with a unique variety of ice cream to choose from. They also offer a wide variety of coffee.
(4)
John A.
I love the flavored they have here, and they're always so nice in helping me order. :) A tad expensive, but worth it for the fun times I've had with friends.
(5)
Erica T.
While everything here is delicious and great, with friendly service, I'm going to be focusing on the milkshakes. Because I'm a milkshake snob. And I'm also super happy, because they are a local chain I know I can get one of the best damn milkshakes (or frappes, for the dyed in the wool New Englanders) from ANY of their flavors. You heard me. Any. Flavor. Of. Ice Cream. Can. Be. A Milkshake. I prefer the extra thick frappe because it's thicker and has, in my opinion, a better mouth feel. I just like the thick milkshakes. But never fear, if you don't want a more traditional style New England style milkshake, the regular ones are really good. Now let's talk flavors. They make a lot of amazing flavors. My favorite, because I adore peanut butter in all of it's glory, is peanut butter cookies n cream. But then there's flavor of the month, and having had a horrible, no good, very bad day... A friend brought me a Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Chip. Turned my frown upside down! The coffee is good. Service is wonderful and friendly. Baked goods are delicious. But for me it's about the ice cream, and having that made into an extra thick frappe.
(5)
Patrice P.
What can I say that you don't already know! I've been going to this place from the beginning from day one to be exact. This a a neighborhood staple and has become synonymous with JP culture such a variety of ever changing flavors while keeping tried and tested favorites like my coffee (ahem) "Oreo" ice cream aka coffee and cookies ice cream it's damn near perfection and don't be afraid to ask for a sample sometimes you get snooty staff which get on my nerves but who cares...ice cream!!!
(5)
Sarah W.
Listen, if they have the chocolate hazelnut ice cream, GET A FRIGGING QUART OF IT. That stuff is so, so good! This place is the heart of JP -- you'll always run into someone you know here, and the ice cream is delish.
(5)
Mary C.
I'm annoyed with this place. And here's why... I went here last night for a quick treat and when it was my time to order, I cheerfully asked one of the employees what a sorbet freeze was. It sounded delightful, but who knows! His response, with a blank stare and borderline attitude, "it's sorbet... and soda water." Hmmm, way to make it sound appetizing. I decided to order it anyway because I was afraid to ask any more questions (it seemed like a burden). By the time I received the drink, there was SO much more "soda water" in it than sorbet, I didn't really know what I had paid for at that point. (It's almost $6 for this drink so I definitely feel ripped off). I was essentially drinking sugar-flavored ice water. Normally, I would have gone back and asked for it to be re-made, but when the line is out the door, I just didn't have time to wait for a simple drink that should have been made correctly the first time. A few things would have made this experience better: a SMILE from the guy who took my order. In a bad mood? Fine, just fake it! You work in an ICE CREAM SHOP, one of the happiest places on earth! People go to you for a treat and to be happy, not to get scowled at. I'm not exaggerating either as this one guy wasn't the only one with an attitude. Not one employee looked happy to be there. That trip was not worth my $6 (especially when I can make the same thing at home for MUCH cheaper and tastes better) and I certainly won't be going back if all I'll get is an attitude. I'm taking my business to FOMU down the street. The people there seem happy...
(1)
Luis N.
Can you say anything bad about this ice cream shop? We heard about J.P licks as soon as we got to Boston and I think we've been here (and other locations) perhaps 4-5 times. Every time a person comes to visit or if we go out...we hit up J.P licks afterward. It's a nice local, unique, ice cream shop that constantly changes its line up to keep you guessing. I have only ordered the ice cream, which have all been great. I get the almond chip one...kinda reminds me of an Almond Joy which is great. I have also got the vanilla coconut flavor which was great but slightly tame. A friend of ours got a cookie sandwich concoction they make which is like...two cookies with ice cream in the middle. She loved it. I recommend getting the kiddie sizes because it's definitely not a terribly small size. It's just enough to get what you need unless you really want to eat a lot of ice cream.
(5)
Danielle R.
I'm a HUGE JP Licks fan and definitely think that it's some of the best ice cream in Boston. My favorite ice cream flavor is Cookies n' Cake Batter, but I also really enjoy the hard and soft yogurts. The Oatmeal and PB Chip hard yogurt flavors are delicious, and I really like the Amaretto and Oreo soft serve when they have them (flavors rotate weekly). The one thing that JP licks could improve upon is the cleanliness. Every time I go, I find the tables dirty -- which can be a bit off-putting for people who aren't regulars.
(4)
Lizzie S.
Best ice cream in town! I hope they eventually update their POS systems to Square or something so that I can tip if I don't have cash!
(5)
Christelle S.
The most amazing ice cream ever! I grew up getting JP Licks and having tried a lot of ice cream in a lot of different places, I can say that it is the best ever! The one in JP is really big with tables, chairs, as well as comfortable chairs around a fireplace. You can get things besides ice cream such as really good coffee and specialty drinks such as raspberry lime rickey (one of my absolute favorites!). They also have breakfast foods and at one point made homemade waffles! They often have seasonal flavors of ice cream and drinks (like hot apple code - yummmm). Line can get long late at night in the summer - but its so worth it!!
(5)
Jess E.
I decided to get a little ice cream pie for my boyfriend for his birthday because that's always fun. They had a cute little oreo one. The best part was not just that they wrote happy birdday, but that if you eat THREE SLICES and then put it in the fridge, (instead of the freezer), you get a whole new pie again! call it "melting", or call it magic, but this was pretty cool when we woke up the next morning to discover what looked like a whole new ice cream pie that had just melted into itself! besides this, it's nice this place is open pretty late, you can have a nice lil' ice cream date or coffee date. woohoo!
(5)
A.J. C.
Best Ice Cream in 5 towns. A summertime staple for JP residents.
(5)
Chris L.
I love ice-cream. If there is something I love more than coffee, it's ice-cream. When I knew I was moving to Boston, I'll admit that I was very, very excited to know that I would be able to have JP Licks whenever I wanted. #fatkidlovescakeandicecream To my out-of-state knowledge, this was the original JP Licks, and it has kept the tradition alive with amazing, high-quality ice-cream in flavors that are unique and exciting. Before I get carried away, let's start with the decor and the location itself. This place is huge, and conveniently located right in the heart of Jamaica Plain. There are plenty of places to seat, a fireplace for cold days, and WiFi for those of us who choose to do our work and studies over ice-cream instead of coffee (or both, because they have BOTH!). Their ice-cream selection, as I said, is unique and exciting, but they still have some traditional favorites. If you see a seasonal flavor that strikes your fancy, GET IT! They are usually delicious and are only around for a limited time. Nothing screams urgency like knowing that Candy Cane ice-cream will not be available 365 days a year. If you're in Boston, you need to indulge in JP Licks. It's like getting a hot dog in New York City or a cheesesteak in Philly. Like, do it.
(5)
C D.
Whenever I come to Boston I always have to get my dairy free coconut ice cream! They have different flavors
(5)
Clare S.
I got the hot chocolate with soy milk. It was by far, the absolute best, most rich and delicious hot chocolate I've ever had in my life. I seriously CAN'T EVEN! I'm back in hot ass Texas now and I'm still thinking about that hot chocolate. It was a highlight of my trip. That's right, this hot chocolate was that amazing. Make sure you get it with soy milk!
(5)
michael m.
Visited recently and have to say again no comparison to Richardsons or Kimberly farms, unfortunately those places are a distance outside of Boston. If you are forced to buy in the city then this place is fine, expect small overpriced portions and ice cream that's ok.
(3)
Leah K.
YUM YUM JP Licks. It feels good to support a local ice cream shop, but JP Licks stands tall on it's own accord. Lately I've had a Lemon Poppyseed muffin there. It was AMAZING. Do they make it themselves? Is it ordered from somewhere? I don't know. But it was so great. Hmmm what else is good....oh yes the ice cream. Obviously. It is amazing, every flavor! Esp anything with girl scout cookies. Coffee service is hella slow in the mornings. Dock one star for that. It's awful.
(5)
Amy T.
This review is really all about the dairy free chocolate fudge frozen treat. HOLY NON-COW is this "ice cream" amazing. It was creamy, rich, and a lot like cold fudge. I shared some with my friends and they couldn't believe how good it was too. We had a very long line on a Saturday night but I decided it was worth the wait. The staff was courteous and the other patrons were friendly. The non-dairy chocolate fudge "ice cream" is worth the wait.
(5)
Dee A.
The cones were too sweet with too much sugar! The rum raisin ice cream taste fantastic though!!!
(4)
I R.
As I handed my credit card to pay, I told the male cashier I have a loyalty card. He said he won't accept it because he just swiped my credit card. The loyalty card is supposed to be swiped first before the credit card, he said. Mind you, I was still in the counter, and the time gap between me handing out my credit card and loyalty card was just seconds but he adamantly refused. Asked if he can credit my points today to my loyalty card, he vigorously shook his head and yelled no. Wow, there goes your "great" customer service!!! So much about your "rewards" card!!! The last time I went there the cashier asked me first if I had the cow card. This impolite mustached young man didn't even bother to ask me if I had one. He was miffed, acted high and mighty, and rudely dismissed me. He did not even find ways or perhaps work around it to address the issue. For him, I was nothing but a nuisance. Is getting the loyalty point the issue here? No, of course not! For christsake, with or without loyalty points life goes on. It's just points, you know. What really infuriated me was how I was made to feel: belittled, underestimated, looked down. I don't belong to his race, therefore, serving me is beneath him. Needless to say, I will never visit this store again and I'll make sure everyone I know knows this.
(1)
Cathy S.
JP Licks is a solid ice cream place, though I wouldn't consider it the best place ever or particularly special. They have a lot of flavors as well as other items on the menu, but it's pretty expensive for ice cream. I do like this location in JP though - it's really big on the inside and almost has a coffee shop feel where people can sit and hang out or do work. There's also outdoor seating in the summertime.
(4)
Carrie B.
JP Licks ice cream is awesome no matter which location you choose. But this location is my favorite because it's large, which allows for ample seating (indoors and out) as well as a larger selection, including - wait for it - belgian waffles! I know, kind of random for an ice cream shop. Since this location opens early on weekends, you can get a belgian waffle with fruit and whipped cream (or even ice cream - I don't judge!) for breakfast. A full coffee and espresso selection kickstarts your day. Delicious all-around. The entire shop is kosher to boot.
(5)
Jimmy G.
Come here pretty regularly and really enjoy the menu offerings and the customer service. More often than not, I order a small sundae with coconut almond chip ice cream with hot fudge (yum), marshmallow (yum), whip cream (yum), and walnuts (you get the hint :) ). They have a loyalty program aptly called the Cow Card that you can use to accumulate points with and earn some free goodies in the future. If you open one up, you're eligible for a free coffee, too :) Special kudos to Sarah who is always very friendly and warm. Best, Jimmy Www.jngdesignservices.com
(4)
Chris P.
Great ice cream. Love the almond coconut chip flavor. You can try samples of the ice cream if you want. I tried a sample of the cucumber (weird flavor I know) and it was surprisingly really good. Will definitely come back. I just wish there was a JP Licks closer to me.
(4)
Virginia T.
JP Licks is lip smackin' good! I come by just about every summer when I visit family in Boston and it's always a welcome dessert no matter what time of the day. Love the cappuccino crunch and coffee Oreo flavors. The ice cream is very fresh-tasting and laden with quality ingredients. For example, if you ordered a peanut-butter-something-or-other, you can bet that peanut butter would be swirled into every bite you eat. They also have a large variety of products that cater to all dietary preferences or restrictions. I've seen fat free, dairy free and even gluten free options here. So even if you're trying to be healthy, I'm more than sure you can still find something that won't break the calorie bank. On a recent visit, my 18 month old nephew gobbled down half a cup of the cappuccino ice cream by himself and tried to lick his cup clean...so there you have it, it's even baby approved. Need I say more?
(4)
Rachel B.
How could anyone not love their ice cream?? The nutty - flavors are my favorites, but other flavors are also sweet to me on a harsh days. I love their bold latte, my daughter like the chocolate and frappe with coffee ice cream is just sinful in the hot summer. Plenty of seats inside and out, awesome local artist paintings, signature cow sculpture and the cozy fire place is lovely in the harsh winter. It is a must stop location in JP.
(5)
Domenique B.
Some of the best ice cream shakes coffee amd belgian waffles in JP they dont only have ice cream which is a great thing you have options. I love there coffee oreo and the belgian waffles are delicious. I love how on your birthday you get a free coffee and scoop of ice cream. The staff are fast and nice.
(4)
Juan M.
It's a great Ice Cream joint, the service is good but their choices can be sparse at time. You figured they'd have every basic flavor but at times they are too focused on crazy types of favors. Fast service.
(3)
Max W.
Perfect ice cream and coffee place. Lots of tables and booths, a fireplace with soft comfy chairs, and all the flavors in the world. Seriously, they probably offer flavors that the thought cloud where flavors live didn't know existed. And they're all good. My favorites are the maple butter walnut and butter cashew, but it's all worth trying again and again. And the coffee is good, too, and because they're open from 6:00 am to midnight, you can almost always get your sugar and caffeine fix. I imagine you could even pull an all-nighter with one last trip at midnight and another one early in the morning. Prices are a little high for what it is, but ice cream is a treat, so who really cares?
(4)
Megan C.
They have the most amazing ice cream! The cleanliness, however, is severely lacking. It was actually pretty disgusting. After waiting in line for 45 mins, the girl taking our orders was chomping (disgustingly) on gum. When she scooped our ice cream, she wasn't wearing gloves and had it all over her hands. She wiped her hands on her dirty apron and continued with the order. She also handled our money and did not wash her hands before handling food again. I will not return because this does not meet health codes and was frankly disgusting.
(3)
Erin B.
The ice cream is not good here. After giving JP licks numerous chances to prove that their ice cream is in some way superior to other stores or brands and being disappointed every time, I was curious to understand what everyone else thought was so great about this place. I decided to do a little research, and what I found was that JP Licks is no healthier than the next brand, and the ice cream is still bland and super pricey. JP Licks boasts homemade ice cream, which they define as ice cream made with ingredients you can find in your home (do you have any Polysorbate 80 lying around in your kitchen?) and even goes into a little spiel on its website about how they buy ingredients at Whole Foods (note: not all their ingredients are from Whole Foods. Clever advertising). Here's the ingredients list to their strawberry ice cream (from their website): Cream, milk, sugar, nonfat milk, corn syrup, whey, mono & diglycerides, guar gum, polysorbate 80, carrageenan, strawberries, strawberry extract, cictric acid, guar gum, xanthan gum, sodium benzoate jplicks.com/JPL-IC.pdf Choosing the strawberry ice cream to post here is being merciful...just imagine the ingredients in something called Coffee and Doughnuts Ice Cream....yikes! I'm being a bit cheeky because it's annoying and disempowering for a consumer to dish out a bunch of money for ice cream that is supposed to be superior in something (flavor, nutrition, something!) and it turns out it isn't. I want to make it clear that I'm not knocking that they use processed ingredients, I'm knocking that they market themselves as this organic, natural ice cream when they're just as bad as any other shop or brand. If you're eating ice cream, you're treating yourself. Let's get over the all-natural organic BS and just enjoy a scoop or two, which you'll enjoy more at Emack and Bolio's or with a pint of Ben and Jerry's.
(1)
Hillary M.
I'm really disappointed to give a bad review because I love the ice cream here. The flavors are amazing. The staff are so - so, and the bathrooms are sometimes super gross, but the real reason I'm giving 2 stars is that this location is overwhelming full of hipsters with laptops and empty coffee cups leaving new customers with no place to sit and enjoy their ice cream. So, if you're a grad student unwilling to pay for internet access and willing to deprive other people of their ice cream fix, this is the place for you! Write your term paper! Interview people! Read a novel by yourself in a BOOTH with your bag and jacket taking up the other seats! If you want to enjoy the delicious ice cream, head to a different location or go in the summer when it is warm enough to sit outside. Then you just have to deal with all the dogs (which, in my opinion, isn't a bad thing at all). I hope that JP Licks will start imposing a wireless time limit or something so they can get more turnover on their tables. I admit I'm bitter - who wants to schlep all the way to the ice cream store only to have to stand at the counter to eat it?!
(2)
Brook W.
I'm surprised to find that the only good coffee on the East Coast seems to be in an ice cream shop. I'm happy to have found this place; great coffee, plenty of cozy seating, and staff members who were friendly. Highly recommend this place if you are looking for coffee that actually tastes like coffee.
(5)
A. S.
Love their organic roasted in store coffee. You even get a free cup when you purchase a bag. I only tried mint cookies and cream ice cream and it did not disappoint. Creamy and delicious. Go to JP licks!
(5)
Beth H.
I...love...JP Licks. I love it I love it I love it I LOOOOOOVE IT. When I first came to Boston I was a little skeptical...the ice cream seemed a little pricey. But two or three bites into my first small mint oreo cone did I come to realize that you couldn't set a price on TOTAL DELICIOUSNESS. By now (a few years later) I've been to many a JP Licks location -- Harvard sq, Coolidge Corner, and the previous location on Newbury St -- but the JP location is probably my favorite. It is the largest and has comfy chairs to sit and chat/study/drink coffee in. The employees are always helpful, willing to let you have (multiple) samples, and seem to enjoy their job. Some of my favorite flavors over the years: --mint oreo --oreo cake batter (a special. rich, but how could I not try it?) --lumpy primate (a special. banana ice cream with walnuts and chocolate chunks) --oatmeal cookie frozen yogurt (a special. SO good) The few times that I have gotten a shake, they weren't thick enough for my liking. But with all of the fantastic ice cream flavors...I have enough to occupy my mouth so that I don't lament the lack of great shakes.
(5)
Clayton A.
Ok. First, I must disclose that I used to work here like ten years ago, scooping ice cream and serving up fro-yo samples as a sophomore in college. The coolest perk was getting to take home a quart every day (but who really needs that much ice cream?) and getting to make ridiculous treats for myself during my breaks. Back then, I could afford to eat like a pig. Now, my beer-belly forced me to consider getting frozen yogurt and then eventually opt for a small cup of the rum raisin. So sad. Well, it was sad until I tasted that ice cream. Craaaack. Coooocaine. Just like I remember it. There are so many other good flavors to choose from, so it was painful to pick just one, especially knowing it will be many years before I return again. When that time comes around though, I intend to exercise for weeks in advance so I can go jamón on a sundae or banana split and then wash it down with that pistachio shake...and then eat a pastry, because they're delicious here too.
(4)
Wasim Q.
Boston does great ice cream, and JP Licks shares the top spot (along with Christina's) in a tough field of competition. If you are going to the JP Licks mother ship, go all out. Try the brownie sundae, with a blondie and house made hot fudge. Ask for plenty of samples and choose your favorite three to go in your sundae. I like the maple walnut. The special flavors rotate often, so it's worth coming back every now and then. For the health-conscious, they have pretty decent hard frozen yogurt.
(4)
Leonardo D.
Awesome icecream! Whenever you feel like willing to get some supercreamy , rich and huge burst of icecream get to this place. Only con: some tastes are ??? But no one is perfect !
(4)
Alena S.
It's very bad ice-cream, fruit frozen, brrr. 'll never visit this cafe. 'll never visit this cafe
(1)
Meagan S.
I have been here twice, once in the summer and just yesterday in the winter! This would be a five star rating, but because of service and price, I am not giving it five stars. PROS = good quality ice cream, variety of flavors, atmosphere, location, samples, allergy friendly (I emailed ahead of time and was given ample information about the ingredients and whether the ice cream had soy, gluten or milk powders in it) CONS = service, price, size of scoops and quantity of toppings PROS -- JP licks has good quality ice cream. It's made with Hood Milk. They have high quality flavors and make their whipped cream and hot fudge sauce from scratch. Gluten-free friendly too! The atmosphere is super fun, and is pink and full of cows, which I love. The location is easy to access and the parking is street but you can usually find something. They offer samples but don't encourage it. I was there twice and they never asked if I wanted a sample. My brother and SIL live in Boston and knew the drill so they told me I could ask for flavor samples. AND I recommend to DEFINITELY sample. Sometimes a flavor does not taste exactly like what you'd expect. CONS -- Service. The scoopers aren't smiley or overly helpful, which is irksome. They are not overtly rude, but it's an ice cream shop for Pete's sake, it should be fun! Once I had to wait to pay (can you not see me standing there??), and almost walked away (which would have meant free ice cream) and no one was paying attention to me. The prices here are a bit much, so beware. The size of the scoops (you can get 2 scoops and 2 flavors in a small) is a bit small. Mine were not properly scooped into a "ball form" either. They also tend to skimp on the toppings a bit. My amount of hot fudge was a little lacking, and the guy who did my whipped cream should be taught how to do it more effectively for both amount and aesthetics. Maybe I'm just an ice cream snob but a paying customers ice cream should be made to look appetizing! Overall, I will go here again, because who else makes their ice cream from scratch with real ingredients or makes their own HOT FUDGE SAUCE with only three simple ingredients? Apparently only JP licks. If you're in Boston, I'd recommend, just be sure to sample the flavors you're eyeing, look over the prices before you committ and GET THE HOT FUDGE sauce.
(3)
Alina T.
Visited tonight on 8/9/2014, had an issue with customer service, brought it to the supervisors attention and she was as bad as her worker. Very disappointing. My family has been going to this JP licks for years. Basic customer service training is needed for supervisors and staff.
(1)
Jessica S.
Yeah, the staff is awesome. The place has a funky decor that I love. It's the original JP Licks (secret's out, folks: JP=Jamaica Plain). But, in the end, you want one thing from this place: damn good ice cream. And, well, you get it. There is such a huge variety of ice cream here - seasonal flavors that change weekly or sometimes every few days, dairy-free options, fro-yo, and confections like ice cream sandwiches and cakes. Tons of toppings for all of this, too. This location also has breakfast options, coffee, and baked goods. You can get the obvious stuff like milkshakes, floats, malts, and sundaes galore. Sometimes I feel like the place is a little dirty... and there is no dedicated parking lot... but I can't complain because everything else is so great!
(4)
Laney W.
Had recently moved to JP and decided to check out what all the hype was about. The staff was super friendly about recommendations upon telling them I was a first timer. The sample I tried were delicious but I had to go with the banana chocolate chip flavor (can't remember the name)! Will def be back!
(5)
Cathy O.
I don't know much about this place, but I do know that they had the most fabulous chocolate ice cream I've ever had -- Chocolate Brownie Batter, or something crazy like that. A single scoop provided a very GENEROUS amount of ice cream. What a lovely patio to sit on, too.
(4)
Allison K.
lots of options and quick service. Enjoyed a kiddie sized salty caramel.
(3)
Liz G.
JP Licks has gotten this reputation for having the best ice cream EVER. But really, it's just good, not amazing, ice cream. I think it's the pride of the JP residents pumping it up. Just saying. Also, it's overpriced. For me, nothing beats a small town ice cream shop. Now that's the good stuff! All that said, I give JP Licks credit for having a little something for everyone from its traditional ice cream to vegan choices.
(3)
Voravut R.
This is JP Licks HQ in my mind. The great location in the heart of JP itself. I used to come here just for the good ice cream but it the place has evolved into the place I also use to escape when I need to get some work done. I do wish there were more plugs from computers & the wifi was more reliable but they are free so I cannot really complain. I enjoy that there is a separate section for just eating & one for working. The fireplace & kids friendly areas are a nice touch. So, besides the yummy frozen treats going to my thighs, I like that there is a place I can go & get down to business. They are also dog friendly which is a big plus. My little pup loves his Cow Paws & the homemade water.
(4)
Rachel M.
I came here with my dad when he was staying at the VA hospital in JP. He always says "When I die, I'm gonna die eating ice cream!". And so, we got permission to skip down the street and get some, because he needs his ice cream even in the hospital. So he treated me to a lovely 2 scoops of delicious Peanut Butter Oreo ice cream. I forget what scoop he got, but he wasn't even talking, just scooping spoonfuls into his mouth and enjoying it. We left very satisfied. I've gone to the location in Davis Sq in Somerville, too. The employees there weren't at all too friendly, however, that doesn't take away from the deliciousness of the ice cream that is served :)
(5)
Dina V.
I know, I know... I posted about a local homemade ice cream shop in RI but NOTHING beats JP Licks.. I mean it, NOTHING. I have tried countless flavors here and have yet been disappointed. It's all made on site. They even have doggie ice cream. How awesome is that??? My pup inhaled his yesterday. He couldn't stop eating it, how he didn't have brain freeze, I don't know. There are tons of seats to sit and enjoy your coffee, which btw the aroma of coffee when you walk in is like heaven. The staff is super friendly too! There are tons of different locations around Boston. If you happen to drive by one, I suggest stopping in for some ice cream. You will thank me.
(5)
Kimberly V.
Amazing ice-cream!! Every flavor is delicious and fresh. Every time I am in the area I have to stop by. Highly recommend checking them out!!!
(5)
Laura M.
JP Licks in JP, you will always be my favorite. Happy staff, customers, dogs...even happy vegans... all eating ice cream. (try the coconut ice cream...oh my woah... but stay away from the hemp- bleh). Oh and it's a coffeeshop too. The only one in the area open til midnight. Kiddie cup of anything with jimmies. It's big enough. And you can sample flavors if you're unsure.
(5)
Sharleen L.
This is my FAVORITE ice cream shop of all time! I've been going here since I was a kid. It's one of Boston's best businesses. My favorite flavor of all time is the mint oreo and in the summer time, they bless us with a chocolate hazelnut!! (Tastes like nutella). I usually mix the two, and it's divine! The only complaint is that I wish they had chocolate hazelnut YEAR ROUND!
(4)
Kelly M.
Best local ice cream around! Always fresh with the best toppings. I love this location as it is right in downtown JP. Dinner on Centre Street followed by a quick (or not so quick in the summer when the line is out the door!) trip to get ice cream is always the perfect evening.
(5)
Laura S.
People kept telling me I had to go to JP Licks, and I finally listened. While this wasn't a life changing ice cream experience (if I had to choose, I'm going to pick Toscanini's every time), it *was* a delicious ice cream experience. Choosing my dessert was a bit overwhelming. I imagine that the regulars are used to the options and offerings, but for a first-time visitor it was not very intuitive. It was hard to figure out what the options were and what each would cost. It also wasn't clear to me whether it was OK to ask to sample the ice creams - there was quite a long line and they really seemed to be keeping it moving at quite a rapid pace. I felt a little frazzled by the end, but ultimately ended up with a sundae with yummy seasonal ice cream (I'm blanking on the exact flavor - something with pecans maybe? or salted peanuts? it was good) and hot fudge. It struck me as a little weird that whipped cream or a cherry count as sundae toppings. (Based on their online menu, it looks like the guy who told me what came on a sundae may have been misleading about how many options I was entitled to. Oh, well, it was a good sundae anyway.) This is definitely worth a trip, especially if you are an ice cream aficionado. It's always good to know your options!
(4)
Whitney J.
JP Licks, why are you so good? I live so far away from you and it makes me so sad. Locally sourced, delicious and the store has enough seating? Win. I tried their maple walnut flavor and fell over it was so good. I've yet to try a flavor that wasn't tasty and the people there are really nice. GO, JP LICKS
(4)
Ashley D.
I have to say out of all the JP Licks locations this is my favorite! I started going to JPL on Newbury (small) and Mission Hill as I went to Wentworth and lived in the area (average size, little seating, always busy during the workday lunch hour due to LMA staff.) Overall JPL in JP has great flavors (as do all locations), friendly staff, outdoor seating, and plenty of indoor seating. The location on the main street is a great spot due to the 39 bus, in the middle of town, parking in back lots and on street parking. I lived in the area, visited often, and have always been pleased with the service. Even with a long line the shop is fully staffed to get everyone served as soon as possible. During a humid summer day after work I stopped in for a cone, when walking outside and a few feet out the door the humidity caused my cone to melted all over my hand... and at that moment the sky opened up and it started pouring buckets. I went back to the shop and when I went to ask for a cup to help myself clean the black raspberry ice cream off my hand/arm the staff made me a new cone, in a cup! Now thats service.
(5)
Nathan C.
Ice cream is great but this store is so big it's meant to me a meet up spot but the Internet here hardly ever works. I can never keep a connection. Better to go across the street to cafe Beirut
(3)
Chas K.
My 1-star rating is about the JP Licks experience and price:value ratio. I really don't understand the popularity of this chain. What fool stands in line for a $6 10 oz. sundae, frappe or cone (Actually, the cone is $5.69 and the frappe is $6.39 if you add malt)? Evidently, there's no shortage of fools. The ice cream is premium, for sure, but it's no better than Ben & Jerry's which costs $3 and change for an entire pint. My son's Oreo cookie dough sundae was 50% cookies. JP Licks is even more expensive than Coldstone Creamery. The store was disgusting. The tables, floors and furniture were filthy. And Inspectional Services really ought to stop by and check out the gross Men's room. What I found hilarious in an ironic way was that many of people lining up for the overpriced ice cream and coffee would be better served using the cash for say, oh, buying shirts with sleeves and personal hygiene items. Ewww! Let me know what you think about this review by clicking a button below.
(1)
D T.
JP Licks has tons of delicious flavors. The line can be long but it moves fast. In JP there is a public parking lot down the street behind Blanchards.
(5)
Heidi S.
If you can get the oatmeal cookie soft serve oh my god do it. If they don't have it (soft serve changes weekly) they also have the flavor in their hard yogurt which is also amazing just not as creamy like the soft version. The sundaes are awesome if you feel like overdoing it because you need to really be hungry for them. It's a bit pricy but since I first visited colleges in boston I've been hooked.
(4)
Hillary C.
Always delicious selection of ice cream and frozen yogurt. Sometimes the line can be a little hard to deal with but it is always worth the wait! They also carry dog ice cream which is a nice treat whole your pup patiently waits outside for you. The yogurt x is healthy and always available in a variety is flavors
(4)
Juliana C.
IN the BEGINNING, there was JP Licks. It waited patiently for me to move to the neighborhood, garnering favor with locals in the meantime, until one day I wandered down the street and tried the ice cream. And it was good. ...Okay, it was freaking fantastic. Caramel apple, pumpkin custard, myer's rum raisin... yum, yum, and an emphatic YUM. The savory croissants never look less than droolworthy. I'd like to try the belgian waffles one day. Or the cookie ice cream sandwiches. Or the soft serve. This place offers a lot of tempting treats. As a coffee shop, JP Licks has a pretty solid selection of styles and flavors, and I feel that the prices are fair. As a place to chill.... eh. The store's a little drafty and this table isn't all that comfortable, but the wifi works and with an hour time limit during peak busy-ness, it's clear I'm encouraged to stay and hang. Which I dig. *Snap snap.*
(4)
John S.
I'm a certified ice cream snob, so believe me when i say this place is no joke. My friends who live in the area recommended it highly, and I was not disappointed. They probably had 12-15 flavors and all sounded great. I settled on peanut butter Oreo flavor and was very impressed. It was loaded with cookie chunks and had the perfect creamy consistency. It was a little pricey (two single scoops and a hand-packed pint came to almost $15), but hey, ice cream is supposed to be an occasional treat, right? They also serve coffee, and have is lots of indoor and outdoor seating. I'll definitely be stopping one more time on my way out of town.
(5)
Julia N.
I'll keep this really really short as I'm sure that this location has tons of reviews. I like JP Licks. It is expensive. It has options that make my lactose-intolerance jump for joy. Since I like JP Licks, however, I don't care if I get an upset stomach sometimes when I opt for the pistachio ice cream. It is an expensive place. The end.
(4)
Jessica L.
Love the ice cream here, it's delish! Tons of fantastic ice cream flavors, as well as great selection of sorbets and other desserts. I would definitely say that the ice cream is their strength (obviously), and that those who order the soft serve might be a bit disappointed; the soft serve is fine, but not as outstanding as the hard ice cream.
(4)
Noel K.
Had a hot chocolate and a cheese, pepper croissant sandwich. Both were pretty good. Came here to work and it has tables and couches and wifi. Very comfortable.
(4)
Rod S.
The best ice cream I ever had and suck friendly service
(5)
Chris M.
Now that they have dairy free ice cream, I literally have no complaints. They are open earlier than you wake up, and later than you can justify going out for coffee or ice cream. Back when I lived in a dump down on Centre St that didn't have working heat in the winter, I would bring my laptop and sip hot coffee at 10pm and use their free wifi and do schoolwork. I have had client meetings here, counseled heartbroken friends over copious amounts of dessert, stopped by during cute dates, the list goes on. You can tell why they're doing so well.
(5)
Jim W.
Anywhere that will make me a frappe (New England for milkshake) with avocado ice cream and pineapple yogurt is alright with me! This place always has the most interesting special flavors, and I love mixing and matching them as they change each month. I've been to several of their locations, which always have long lines. However, the packed staff is typically able to burn through lines much faster than I expect.
(4)
Melissa F.
I love JP Licks like a fat kid loves cake. Yes that's me. I am moving literally down the street from this location in a few days and could not be more excited, although my waist wouldn't agree. I always make it a point to try some of their flavors of the month. Currently I'm hooked on their peanut butter chip ice cream. Nom nom. But my go to flavors are coffee oreo, coconut almond chip, and their peanut butter soft serve. Unlike other ice cream shops, their coffee is actually good too. So if I don't get enough of a caffeine kick from my coffee oreo ice cream, I can get an iced coffee to accompany it. They are generous with their servings too. Definitely worth a few extra bucks
(5)
Mon R.
Coffee shop? Ice cream shop. Coffee shop? Ice cream shop? So confused. I didn't know a place could exist with the two (although Dunkin Donuts & Baskin Robins stores do exist), and to be honest I had this place pegged as an ice cream shop. Regardless, this place is definitely worth checking out for both. They have a nice fire place too which is sweet, free wifi at all hours (yay!) and are open til midnight!
(3)
Paul N.
It's JP licks! This the original, I believe. Or the only one I know that's actually In JP. The store features much more lounge space -comfy chairs, and room to spread out (at least in comparison to than the Mission Hill location). Their ice cream is delicious, and I can tell its properly made without cheap substitutes. Like everyone said, try the coffee Oreo. I think the prices are well justified for the quality. Skip their baked goods, I find them overpriced and not worth it.
(4)
Jenn S.
I had been to the original JP Licks location a few years ago, but went back Sunday night with some friends who were visiting from out-of-town. They immediately knew the place we were talking about because of the big cow head outside. ;) I was immediately impressed by the LED sign letting you know the MBTA schedule. Um, can they get that AT MBTA stops please!?! The place was busy for a cold, rainy Sunday evening @ 8, but we had no wait. I opted for the Low-Fat Oatmeal Cookie (yes, yes, low-fat - but you couldn't even tell!!). My friend tried it and said "I don't like it - tastes TOO much like an Oatmeal Cookie." My response? "That's exactly why I love it!" Their flavors are always so full of flavor. While most are great, some of the more unique ones (Blackberry Manischevitz, Noodle Kugel) sometimes miss the mark. (I'd tried the Kugel one a few years back and, while it was good, it had actual noodles in it, which was a bit odd!). This location isn't much different from others, except it's much bigger. Do all the locations sell coffee? This one sells teeny espressos and other coffee items, but doesn't sell the Challah and other breads that the Brookline location does.
(4)
Alee G.
I paid $3.31 for a kiddie sized ice cream (which is about 1/2 a scoop if that). It was good, but it wasn't THAT good. This place is waaayyyyy too pricey for me.
(3)
Dmitri K.
Best Ice Cream in Town. Always a line which tells you something. Mix it up with a bevy of fixins. Brownie Brownie batter is addictive. They even sell Cakes.
(5)
Lauren L.
Ugh. Sunday night: Brought my Little Sister for some ice cream. Assclown in Segway standing on front of us trying to balance himself in line for 10 minutes, then tries to fumble with his wallet while he stands on his stupid Segway. We get theice cream, but every____single____table has been monopolized by people parking themselves all night with papers, computers, earphones... NO PLACE for actual people eating ice cream to sit. So... we sat on the FLOOR. Ugh. Bathrooms: Filthy. Service: Rushed and indifferent. No thanks.
(1)
Tanya Y.
C is for cookie, and cookie is for me! OREO COOKIES! Jamaica Plain is where JP Licks all started, so therefore I thought it would be appropriate to write about this particular location. The decor is exceptionally cute, the staff very nice and welcoming, and the atmosphere has a homey feel. The ice cream quality is exceptional, however, the best flavor? ANYTHING WITH OREO! There are massive chunks or oreo in it and hits the spot every time. My personnal fave is the Coffee Oreo. So good! Also, individual ice cream cake slices are available, which are delicious. JP licks also has great Frappes if you ever feel like taking yummyness in a convenient portable cup. My only downside is their restroom; it could be a little nicer! They offer free wifi and are open til midnight which are also great positives.
(4)
Jessica S.
came in yesterday with a friend. caramel apple ice cream and pumpkin custard are good. good dark roast coffee. got a chocolate and vanilla cupcake. chocolate was bland with an overly sweet frosting, tossed it. vanilla was much better. both tasted like frosting out of a can so meh to that. overall i like this place and the setup is nice
(4)
Skye G.
Love the Rum Raisin. Has so much rum though that the ice cream doesn't get real hard so I get it in a cup. Best place so far and I try Rum Raisin every time.
(5)
John C.
I saw the sign "we roast our own coffee!" so if I figured if they're going to boast I might as well shoot them down. Lady in front of me in line: "Their coffee is great. I have high standards." I knew she was wrong, but went for it anyway. Review: Coffee tastes like Folgers, it's junk. Crapola. Flat. Bland. Cheap inputs. Probably roasted by an amateur. The espresso was horrendous and pulled wrong. They don't train their baristas well. I think the employee learned more from my two minutes of telling him how to fix his shots than from the company. This company is also under the impression that espresso has to be a dark roast, maybe they saw it on TV or something, or just looked at what Charbucks was passing off as espresso and went from there. It's unfortunate for customers. They also sell whole bean if you like to take crappy coffee and make it at home. It may have been roasted a month ago, just to add in to that crappy coffee theme.
(1)
Ben D.
My favorite ice cream in the world. By far. This includes ice cream from Europe, Africa, and Asia. I can't give enough praise to J.P. Licks and its delicious ice cream; knowledgeable, friendly, and pleasant staff; and overall enjoyable atmosphere.
(5)
Ilya E.
This is their flagship store, and like all flagship stores, it delivers a flagship experience. there is always a line, but it moves fast and the order takers are on the ball. The ice cream portions are big, affordable and taste amazing. Way better than the newbury street experience at other brands; come here and get the coconut almond crunch, black raspberry, and chocolate chip, with sprinkles. The store also has a huge sitting area and free wifi so you can chill out here all day long stuffing your face with ice cream. HUGE HUGE HUGE bonus points for being open until midnight, so you can take your date there if she works late.
(5)
Megan C.
JP licks is a mixed bag. If you are going for tasty coffee you won't find it however the ice cream is quite good. Pros--Lots of seating though sometimes it can get crowded. The hot chocolate is rather tasty. Cons--The bathrooms are filthy and the woman's room often runs out of soap. I actually make sure to go the bathroom either at my house or somewhere else before I walk in there so I don't run the risk of being forced into the grossness. Also there are times that the music is way too loud. During the day its perfect but come in at night and you can barely hear yourself think.
(2)
Felicity N.
Hands down best ice cream place in Boston, specifically the original location in JP. I have had JP licks at other locations other than the original and its a completely different experience. ITS SO GOOOOD!!
(5)
Kristina K.
Chocolate brownie batter is amazing. Staff are hilarious with their recommendations. We were given a taste of this guys favorite combo that we had to close our eyes for and 'be open to an extraordinary adventure.' We went with a big group, moved tables and seats around and had a great time!
(5)
Liz P.
I used to love this place. They had my favorite flavor ice cream, peanut butter chip which was a good substitute for the late lamented Ben & Jerry's Tuskeegee Chunk. I even have a Cow Card. Last time I was in JP I stopped in to treat myself only to find out that the flavor was discontinued. My small sundae was way overpriced and the so-called hot fudge was a chewy cold blob. And I don't believe peanut butter cookie dough is an adequate substitute. From now on I'll pass, and I live only a short walk from the West Roxbury location.
(1)
Ethan P.
Problems I have with JP Licks 1. No parking. 2. Lines go out the door. 3. Dirty bathrooms. 4. The place is really small. 5. They run out of flavors to often. 6. Their competeion lies across the street. It's more affordable, less money than Licks, 7.It takes ten minutes to get ice cream. 8. They expect you to have a JP Licks card, so you can save, who cares, just gimme the ice cream! 9. Alot of time, the outdoor seating is filled.
(2)
Kestrel D.
Let me preface this by saying that I am a Vermonter, and was therefore raised on Ben & Jerry's. I probably ate that stuff in the womb. So, JP Licks has some big shoes to fill. That said, it does a pretty good job, even if the best thing going for it for me personally is proximity. Great variety of flavors, from your basic to your strange (banana Oreo?). Also good alternative options (this is JP, everyone hearts alternative) like lactose/dairy free and low fat hard and soft yogurts. I've never tried their coffee, but their non-ice cream treats are tasty too. The line is always long, but it moves fast. Also, said line is a fantastic place for people-watching. Ice cream attracts all types. My two beefs are: too expensive, like most locally made and ergo trendy items in JP; and, it's dirty - both inside and out. I mean, I get that ice cream is sticky, but this does not mean it should simply be left as a varnish on tables and floors. Overall, if you are not broke, can handle minor grime, and don't have good old B & J handy, JP Licks is a fun neighborhood excursion.
(3)
J F.
I hate you JP licks. Your delicious ice cream made me fat and I wheeze while walking. I'm never coming back, I'll lose this weight and be healthy again. I HAVE SELF CONTROL!!! Oreo cake batter you say? I'll start the diet tomorrow...
(4)
Shane R.
was visiting sk in jamaica plains and we wanted dessert. we walked to jp licks and got a cafe au lait and orange sorbet. sorbet was ok - it had a little bit of that artificial-like edge to it that im not a fan of. thats the best way i can describe it.
(3)
Daniel B.
Sorbets and seasonal froyo is the best in town. Great place to socialize and they support a lot of what goes on in JP.
(5)
Jamie G.
I've always liked JP Licks... LOTS of different flavors that are are really good. This was my first visit to this location, the very first JP Licks. The location is nice and big and open, and very clean. Staff were friendly. I had a small oreo cake batter in a sugar cone.... which was of course, delicious, and not a bad price.
(5)
Nick T.
Sweet place to go in Jamaica Plains. The ice cream here is great, and their service is a riot. I come here at least 2-3 times a week for coffee because of their great service and huge building. It's so tough to go out for coffee in Boston because you always feel like you're being rushed out for turnover. At JP Licks, you can take your time and have nice long chats. The real highlight here though is the ice cream. Their monthly specials range from the classic to the extreme. Last month, I had a half and half cup of Noodle Kugel and Cookie Dough. It was glorious. Finally, feel free to show up or stay late! JP licks is open 'till midnight, so you aren't pushed out right in the middle of your studying/reading/conversation. Check this place out - it's a Boston staple!
(5)
Brian D.
The JP Licks in...uh, JP, is a fun little spot. It's bright and cheerful, does good coffee and nice pastries for brunch. It's always got interesting art on the wall, and it has a little message board in the back with constantly running alerts on when the next 39 bus will pass by (never even thought of this until I went in there, now I wonder why more places don't do it!). That having been said, the main complaint about this place is the same as all other JP Licks...their ice cream is bad. It's not terrible or disgusting, it's just bland. Flavorless and totally not worth the calories. Full disclosure: my favorite ice cream spot in the Boston area was the Herrell's in Harvard Square, and they went out of business after a JP Licks opened around the corner from them. So yes, I do have something of a grudge. But I used to go to the Coolidge Corner and Newbury Street JP Licks before any of that and I didn't like them either! Try the basic flavors...they just seem off. I love a Strawberry Frappe, but when I get one there it tastes slightly minty. What possible reason could you have for making Strawberry ice cream minty? I suspect that they're trying to seem more authentic and make it taste "organic." Same is true for the Coffee ice cream. It tastes like some super-fancy dark roast espresso. I don't want super-fancy, la-di-da, odd tasting. I want Coffee ice cream! Granted, I should salute them for always having some lactose free ice cream, and options in terms of yogurt, sugar free, etc. Look, if you want creative flavors go to Ben and Jerry's. If you want high-end fancy flavors go to Toscannini's. If you want high quality ice cream go to either of those places! If you want to support something local get Brighams, or White Mountain Creamery, or get something from the freezer across the street at City Feed. But JP Licks wants to be fancy ice cream, creative ice cream, and home-style local ice cream all in one shop and they end up failing on all counts. Go there for coffee, sure, but these guys started out as a local business that is now becoming a pushy chain with so-so ice cream. They aren't worth supporting. Two and a half stars (rounded down) for good coffee/location, but a fail in terms of primary, ice-cream based mission.
(2)
Sarah A.
Excellent ice cream and a lot of really great outdoor seating here. You definitely have more room to relax and enjoy your ice cream here than at other locations. My only complaint was that the cashier kind of rushed me to pay when I was chatting with a friend who I ran into. Also, the cups for the tap water resemble something you'd put ketchup in, not water. Someone had written "I heart JP" on the wall in the bathroom. It brought a smile to my face. :) I am sure JP Licks in integral to this woman's JP love.
(4)
Charmie S.
This might be my shortest review yet. Three words: Save your money.
(2)
Eliza W.
jp lick my... long line and $4.50 for a tiny kiddie scoop of ice cream in loud, dirty parking garage feeling space...puleeeze
(1)
Michelle B.
I know, I know... JP Licks does not need another good review. BUT OMG THE BANANA OREO ICE CREAM. So good. Every bite had delicious bites of oreo and was so banana-y, it was amazing. I also picked up a chipwitch for my husband who couldn't join us, and he was very appreciative. Friendly, fast service and reasonable prices for the quality.
(4)
Beverly G.
Good, solid ice cream place. I've definitely had better ice cream in my day (read: Toscanini's), and I find it pricey considering the quality of the product hasn't blown me away.* Their coffee also consistently underwhelms me. Also, their wi-fi craps out not infrequently, but I guess I shouldn't complain too much, 'cause it's free. Their cakes definitely get five stars from me, though. For my husband's last birthday, I ordered a cookies and cream + cookie dough cake with chocolate ganache and Oreo dusting. I think it might've been the most delicious cake I've ever had. And they were ready with it several hours early, so they're pretty efficient. -- * The one exception to this is their El Diablo ice cream. It's chocolate ice cream with cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Seriously, you can't improve on that. I wish they served it year round.
(3)
Symphony D.
Great ice cream and amazing seasonal favors. A wonderful fall day can be spent here.
(4)
Justin Y.
I've only been around the area for less than a month but I've been to JP Licks five times! The ice cream is some of the best I've had. Good service and kind staff. I've had several of their flavors. I will give you my thoughts on the more unique flavors! Oreo Cake Batter: My favorite flavor of all time (for all ice cream, not just JP Licks). Nice chunks of Oreos, and extremely creamy. Yet it has this sticky texture of cake batter that is prevalent throughout the ice cream. Unlike cookie dough ice cream where you get it in chunks, this is all over. This texture, combined with the flavors, make this the best ice cream flavor available at JP Licks. Banana Oreo: You can tell that the bananas were fresh. And they definitely used LOTS of them. As usual with any JP Licks Oreo ice cream, there were chunks of Oreos throughout. Although I eat lots of banana myself, it was too strong on the bananas for ice cream (just a personal thing). I would recommend mixing with it with Cake Batter. El Diablo: Everyone needs to at least sample this flavor as it's one of those JP-Unique flavors. It has this decadent chocolate flavor at the beginning, but once when it goes to the back of your throat, you feel this nice extra kick from the cayenne peppers and cinnamon. And because I love chocolate and i love spicy food, the two flavors actually complement one another perfectly. Coffee Oreo: If you love coffee, you gotta love this flavor. The coffee flavor is very strong! But the sweetness balance the coffee out. And if you don't like the strong coffee, go half and half with the Sweet Cream flavor. Bailey's Cheesecake: Very nice. Although I will say that there Bailey's was stronger than I expected (although I do like it!). Nice graham cracker swirl throughout. I wish the cheesecake flavor stood out a bit more. Maybe even chunks of cheesecake if possible. But a nice addition to the flavors. Triple Berry Sorbet + Lime Raspberry Sorbet: There sorbets are clearly made from real fruit. If you don't want something too sweet, less heart-clogging, and something more thirst quenching, I would go with the sorbets. They taste like the actual fruit, and aren't as sweet as there other flavors. The Lime Raspberry sorbet is definitely more dominant in lime flavor though! Anyways, as I try more flavors, I will update this post. but JP Licks is definitely worth the visit!
(5)
Hannah D.
What is not to love! When I was living in Jamaica Plain this was one of my favorite stops for Ice cream and coffee. Perfect place to stop in on summer afternoons to get an ice cream cone to enjoy on a walk around Jamaica Pond. There are so many fantastic flavors of ice cream, hard yogurt and soft serve. They also have special monthly flavors that will suit everyone's ice cream taste. The flavors range from your standard oreo, chocolate, etc to the more adventurous concoctions like carrot sorbet, cream stout, fresh mint, peanut butter oreo, etc. Favorites: White Coffee Ice cream, Oatmeal Cookie Hard Yogurt, YoTango Soft Serve. Tip: You can split a small with 2 flavors, this way you can try more flavors.
(5)
Marc H.
Great ice cream, cool vibe, excellent people-watching, what more do you need? This isn't just an ice cream place; it's a social gathering spot, almost like a pub in Ireland or England. And the clientele is incredibly interesting at times--some people look like roadies for Country Joe and the Fish, while others look like they just locked up the art studio for the night, and still others seem to have wandered over from Newbury Street in the Back Bay. I would give this place 5 stars for the ice cream alone, but the atmosphere is just icing on the cake.
(5)
Stephanie B.
dear maple buttah walnut, why do you taste so good? like, seriously. i cannot resist you, you temptress. my thighs yell, not again! but my heart yells, yes! yes! yes! with much love, probably inappropriately, steph
(4)
R G.
Notable improvement from the staff at my last visit. Everyone seemed polite and cheerful. The guy with the red-ish beard is probably the most enthusiastic and friendly employee I've ever encountered there. High five for you! I aslo appreciated that they asked people who had been there a while to make room for new customers. Lots of people camp out with their computers and some are not very considerate (I'm talking to you, two laptop people who were taking up a four person table each), so it's nice that the staff is aware and cares enough to do something. Also, Pralines and Cream was always my favorite flavor growing up. You guys do it right.
(4)
Sarah E.
I actually didn't realize that this was the first JP Licks when I first went to it (I also didn't know that JP stood for Jamaica Plain... I'm new to the area). I went driven by the need for free wifi and a slight desire for ice cream during the middle of summer. I don't know if I went on a bad day, but the wifi was a bit dodgy and went out on me after a couple minutes, but the ice cream was great. :) There are a ton of flavors, so you're bound to find some classic favorite or something new. When I went they had cucumber and peaches as flavors of the month--I didn't like either, but I'm a sucker for the cookie dough. They always seem to have a long line, but you can usually get a seat since so many people just go in to get ice cream and leave, and the place is huge. But it's usually bustling with people going in and out, so not quite the best place to sit and work. It probably calms down later at night though (it's surprisingly open till midnight).
(4)
Jimmy M.
I've been coming here occasionally for over ten years, mostly for the coffee. What I like most is the atmosphere. It's a great room. Brick walls, stone pillars, 15 foot ceiling with exposed beams. They manage to strike an excellent balance with the seating, lots of tables that aren't crammed too close together, booths at the big plate glass windows where you'll find some of the best people watching in Boston. There's a little section in the back with big, low comfy chairs, this morning they're gather around the fireplace. There's one booth at the very back next to a cubicle sided with chalkboard so the youngsters can entertain themselves while parents are relaxing with their coffee. The only thing keeping JP Licks from having a five star atmosphere is the music. Whoever is creating the mix needs to understand that you can't play the same mix on a Saturday night ice cream crowd as you would on the Sunday morning coffee crowd. I'm here early on a Sunday morning, and I'm not sure, but I do believe I'm listening Justin Beiber. And it's too loud. Why are you trying to get me to get up and dance early on a Sunday morning? Did you notice that all the rock and pop radio stations are having their Blues or Acoustic shows on Sunday mornings? They are pros at this kind of thing, follow their lead and create an acoustic mix, or a jazz mix, or a blues mix, or even classical, ..... Oh great..... Kanye West just came on.... really? They take their coffee pretty serious, there are a lot of different roasts to choose from, and the bean selection changes. The coffee menu looks like an airport destination board. I usually just ask for dark roast, but that will sometimes result in the follow up question, 'which one, the Ethiopian or Costa-Rican"? At the cream & sugar table there are four ways to lighten your coffee; skim milk, whole milk, soy milk or half & half. My only complaint about the coffee is they charge too much. Starbucks is cheaper. That's pretty bad. The ice cream is always top notch, but if you're here on a hot summer evening, the ice cream line might be out the door, and you won't get a table. I've always found the staff to be very friendly and very quick. This is a very eclectic neighborhood, often called the most diverse in the city. There was an apparently homeless man sitting at the table closest the door while I was here. He had a drink of some kind in front of him that looked empty, He was rambling incoherently most of the time, as though his turrets was in overdrive. He got particularly loud just as a cop was walking in the door. It looked for a second as if the man had just yelled something derogatory at the cop. The cop just smiled and nodded, then walked right by him and ordered a coffee. The homeless guy quieted down, but continued ranting incoherently the whole time. When the cop got his coffee he leaned in close and whispered something to the kid at the counter, and the kid gave a big grin and said, "Oh, he's OK, he's a regular"...... the cop just nodded as if he was expecting as much. I liked that particular scene, the tolerance and compassion, but there's a time and place for such things. Be less considerate of the one guy who's been taking up an entire booth at the window for the past two hours, laptop and briefcase spread out, and be more compassionate for that family with the two toddlers who just ordered coffee and ice cream for everyone only to realize that nearly every table is taken up by people with lap tops who have been sitting there for way too long. Which reminds, me; I should leave now......
(3)
April M.
I've eaten at the JP Licks in Brigham Circie, Newbury and the flagship location right here on Centre. As far as quality and pricing goes, all 3 are the same, as you'd expect. The JP location is the largest, with Brigham Circle coming in second and Newbury Street an expected third. Not much to say about an ice cream place, the ice cream is great, all home-made. I have ordered an ice cream cake here before too, it was *amazing*. I haven't been to any of these places in the middle of the summer on a hot day, so I can't attest to the wait time or atmosphere during those peak times. I have always been in and out and satisfied. Compared to other options for ice cream (Ben & Jerry's on Newbury, Coldstone Creamery in the Pru or in Fenway, Emack & Bolio's in Fenway and the freezer section at your local grocery store), this place is up there. Might as well check it out at least, there's a giant cow head poking out of the front, and that should be able to amuse the kiddies at the very least.
(5)
Chuck K.
The key to a good JP Licks experience is being able to discern between the stuff they do well and the other things they do horribly. JP Licks has a cavernous space with a nice mix between music and background conversation and enough quiet to get stuff done. With free wi-fi, you can hang out for hours. As for food. It's an ice cream shop that has, tragically and inexplicably, decided to venture into areas like coffee and baked goods where they do a bad job. Both the coffee and baked things are not just average, they're BAD. The ice cream, by contrast, is heavenly. There are crazy flavors of the month, e.g., right now, it's sun-dried tomato, avocado, and, Christ help me, noodle kugel. But then there are old stand-bys like chocolate, oreo cake batter, and peanut butter. Both the crazy temporary flavors and the traditional concoctions are, in technical parlance, yummy-licious. Sorbet, frozen yogurt, soft-serve; if it's cold, JP Licks does it well. So this is your guide to a good trip to JP Licks. The rest is up to you. Vaya con Dios. Forewarned is forearmed. Etc. One last thing: JP Licks consistently has some of the best service you'll get at a casual dining establishment in Boston. Huzzah!
(4)
Ben R.
Their ice cream is great and you have to try their flavors of the month. My favorite was Red Velvet Cake Batter. I'm dying for it to come back.
(5)
Brian D.
THE place to see and be seen in JP. Well, if you are a coffee voyeur like I am. JP Licks in JP is my Saturday morning first stop for coffee, pastry and wi-fi. I dig their espresso and they really don't mind if you loaf about their store for a few hours. The parents letting their kids rove about unattended sort of drives me batty but a few evil glares usually clears the air soon enough. Of note, I am lactose intolerant and do not eat ice cream typically BUT these guys always have a handful of interesting lactose free ice creams on deck. And yes you can pee here as well. Just not in the ice cream.
(3)
Michelle P.
I'm not a native of Boston, but my friend who is sent me here. I was HOOKED! And, I was traveling with a group of about 50 and got most of them hooked. I can't recommend a flavor because I never had one I didn't like. There was a chocolate with chili that was amazing. I think the pineapple was amazing. Cappuccino crunch and coconut almond were also terrific. Thank GOD I was there for a week. I would go every day if I lived in Boston.
(5)
Ryan G.
I think the other reviews say it all! JP licks is an amazing ice cream store. It is one of the best ice cream shops i have ever been to. It's home made and is just a great place to hang out with friends. This location I will probably rarely go back but I will definitely be visiting other locations. The one down side is that the place is pricey but it is totally worth it LOL I had the chocolate brownie mix which was amazing! would highly recommend it! its just chocolate ice cream with brownies inside.
(5)
Ashley F.
My friend says, "I'll buy ice cream if you drive me from JP to the North End." I responded, "It's ten at night, when do you think JP Licks closes?" "Midnight!", my roomie chimed in. And so it goes, we were suddenly transported to the busiest coffee shop and ice cream counter in all of JP! I was impressed, on a Tuesday, how many folks were there indulging, chatting, studying and people watching. The counter staff offered ample samples to me as I made up my mind on what to order. (Heck, my friend was treating, when would I spend $5.50 on an ice cream? I had better make a good choice.) I landed on coffee oreo in a waffle cone. Absolutely delicious. The coffee was not syrupy (like most places) and did not leave a strange after taste. The cone, priced over a dollar, was big, fresh, crunchy and worth every cent. Although it is not a place I want to get in the habit of going to I am so happy that I hit up the local haunt on that Tuesday in March. Can't wait for the patio to be open! Big big points to JP Licks for having a next bus ticker. That 39 route is highly desirable and makes ice cream enjoyment complete.
(4)
Nate Y.
We dropped by at 11PM when the place was practically empty. Even at this hour, with just an hour before closing, the guy behind the counter was more than happy to serve us. We first tried some of the interesting offerings before making a choice like caramel apple (yum), pumpkin (yum), and coconut curry (surprisingly yum). We asked about the pad thai but decided not to give it a go, but I'm sure it would taste like pad thai. The ice cream is not too sweet so the taste of the flavor actually shines through instead. We also ordered two pieces of ice cream cake to go. I take away one star because the ice cream cake we ate the next evening was disappointing. It lacked any taste except for the chocolate crust. I'm not sure if it had to do with it sitting in the freezer? Anyways you can't go wrong with the ice cream served there.
(4)
Abby M.
JP Licks has some damned tasty ice cream, in my opinion. I also like the combination suggestions with funny names. I even like the slightly off names they give to wanna-be ben and jerry's flavors (lumpy primate?). They have some great sorbet too-- I've recently tried the pomegranate, the grapefruit, and their raspberry lime ricky flavors- yum! But it's SO OVERPRICED! Boo! And then maybe half the time they give me hollow scoops. Like, they look like good scoops but if you packed it down the ice cream would fill maybe half the cup. When I've just shelled out $4 or more for that small cup, it had better be full! I'd love to see how JP Licks would stand up to some healthy competition in the neighborhood.
(3)
Mike M.
I've been writing a lot of negative reviews so I thought I'd write something quick about how enjoyable my experience at this JP Licks was. Friendly staff and they let me taste a lot of different special flavors. Both the ginger and the girl with glasses were funny. That makes four stars five. I settled on a medium of half El Diablo, half Bailey's Chocolate Chip Cheesecake. I couldn't finish it all but it was very good. Very very good. Two flavors, two very's. El Diablo is actually pretty spicy. But I like it spicy. I'm not telling you what's in it so you can go try it.
(5)
Zsaleh H.
JP Licks gets five stars from me based purely on the quality of the ice cream--some of the best I've ever had! Every flavor I've had there is fantastic, as is there frozen yogurt and their sorbet. I agree with the other reviewers--this place is pricey--but I'm always satisfied. The JP store has a great community feel, even if the service is sometimes a bit half-hearted. I won't even take away a star for the sign that says, "We can make you a cake of all sizes and flavors." Even though it bugs me every time I go.
(5)
Brett W.
I miss you, boo. Please open a store in NYC! I cried when I thought Oreo Cake Batter was only going to be a monthly flavor. Then, it was extended for another month and I cried. I cried again when I thought it was ending. Then, it became a staple! And I cried tears of joy. TEARS. OF. JOY. There's little I love more than JP Licks. I will brave wind, rain, and snow for you. And yes, I'll even ride a Chinatown bus 4 hours. Just to love up on you.
(5)
C R.
I love the ice cream here, especially El Diablo, but I had run out of reasons to come to JP licks when I decided to reduce my sugar intake. But then they got Yogurt X! So, so so so good. I used to know only two places to get tart frozen yogurt-- Harvard Square and the airport in Atlanta. Now I can find it in my own neighborhood and I'm hooked!
(4)
Matt E.
4.5 stars...My biggest weakness is ice cream and this place is amazing. The place is gigantic and the ice cream is amazing, they make all their own ice cream and they've got a ton of flavors to choose from. Free Wifi, water, and a ton of seating make for a real relaxed environment. The only issue is that I don't live by here to make constant return visits.
(5)
Eric F.
Lovely ice cream shop second only to Ici, as far as I've experienced. I've tried a number of their flavors including Wild Turkey (bourbon-infused ice cream), Rum Raisin, and a couple interesting twists on Chocolate. Their branches in JP, Back Bay, and Cambridge are all about the same, so no worries about any one being better/crappier than another.
(4)
N V.
Try the Yogurt X. It's pretty awesome.
(5)
Alex S.
The chocolate sorbet is pure magic in your mouth. Here's what you do: consider buying a party tub ($49), which will be the only item in your freezer for the several months it takes to get through it; realize that dreams don't always come true; buy a quart ($9.50) instead; run home as fast as you can (seriously, the stuff melts quickly); eat a ridiculous amount in the privacy of your own home; and take a nap in the late afternoon sun. Glory. As if anything else needs to be said. Alas, JP Licks also serves up some good, strong coffee drinks. And their lime rickeys rule! Warning: the large is unbelievably massive (like a liter), and you will be out of your mind from the quantity of grenadine you've just consumed by the time you finish it. And I mean that in a good way. A little expensive, but I consider desserts luxury items that I don't mind splurging on occasionally. And I generally dig the staff; I was a scooper at an italian ice shop for a while, and, respectively, feel some sort of popeye forearm solidarity with them.
(4)
Maynard P.
Pretty Good Ice Cream! So the reason I gave them 4 stars is because I know people who work there and the ice cream is really good. But the price, the line, amount of people that go there suck! Kinda like a starbucks of ice cream because its a chain thats everywhere in beantown and they roast their own coffee. Its like all Ice cream chains ie (ben&jerrys, coldstone, or haggen-n-dazs) Good ice cream everything else is eh im fed up with this %&*@.
(4)
Michelle R.
the only thing that would make this place better would be more non-dairy deliciousness (like the soy chocolate fudge year-round!). but seriously, this place is dank. wifi, comfy seats, coffee, ice-cream, yogurt, sorbet, hemp/nut/soy ice-creams.
(4)
Lindsay L.
Yep. I'm fuctionally lactose intolerant and I tend to avoid cold, sweet things, so my disclaimer here is that I am writing a review about the coffee options. The baristas here are variable. Sometimes i get a great drink, and sometimes it's just OK. I've never had a downright terrible coffee drink here, though, which leads me to believe that the products are fine and that the baristas might just need more consistent training/monitoring. Note: the hot cocoa here (I get it with soy, and my manfriend gets it with regular milk) is smashing. There's a slight hint of coconut, which adds a delightful twist to an otherwise standard-issue beverage. If you're in a pinch for coffee and you're on Centre Street without a lot of time, JP licks is worth a stop. Otherwise, shuffle yourself on over to Ula's where they're serious about it.
(3)
Raph O.
I like JP Links, it's one of my favorites place to go to... A great place to study or read a book... It's a little noisy at times but it won't bother you a lot.. They have free WIFI, which makes it great to do any work online.. Lots of tables, space and room. People mind their own business.. I just don't like, when they yell to say that we have to leave the tables if you were there for more than an hr. Of course, they say it when it's crowded but they have signs and I know how to read. Otherwise I would give this place 5 starts but it's still a great place to go with a lot to offer.
(4)
Johnathan P.
JP Licks in Jamaica Plain gets 3 stars, they are in the middle of an identity crisis. On one hand we have a great Ice Cream shop that could turn any Ice Cream fan inside out with pleasure, on the other we have a coffee shop that loans its atmosphere to a cafeteria stylings of a High School mess hall. Don't get me wrong its is worth the visit but, beware of finding your place in line behind 13 people ordering Ice Cream when you only want a coffee. This place could benefit from the use of an express lane or a separate coffee counter. Amazing employees and service. But set up is flawed at best.
(3)
Sara S.
This is quite possibly the BEST ice cream shop I have ever been to in my entire life. Actually, no, not possibly. Definitely. I really think JP Licks has stepped it up a notch recently with all their innovative and different flavors. Peanut Butter Oreo?! Pumpkin Cheesecake?! Coffee Oreo?! White Coffee?! Ahhhhhhh. Overwhelming! Can I have them all?! No. I resist. I always get the fat-free soft serve, but make sure to try at least one of the flavors whenever I go, so it's safe to say I've tried a ton of flavors. However, in terms of soft serve, I highly recommend any of the flavors, with my favorite being vanilla, pumpkin (keep it all year round) peanut butter, coffee, and oreo. The building of this particular JP Licks is what makes it special. It's huge! Free wireless, tons of plugs, comfortable seating. If I lived in JP, I'd be here all the time. And ten pounds heavier! Best ice cream store in Boston.
(5)
Leah H.
NOT A BAD FLAVOR IN THE HOUSE!!! How can one pick a favorite ice cream flavor, it's like picking a favorite child! Okay, so that may be a slight over-exaggeration (emphasis on slight), BUT if I had to narrow it down to the top 5 picks it would go as follows: 1. Cappuccino Crunch 2. Oatmeal Cookie Hard Frozen Yogurt 3. FTO White Coffee 4. Maple Butter Walnut 5. Coconut Almond Chip Go with the small sundae, it's just the perfect size and the servers at the JP location are so generous. This one AMAZINGLY AWESOME guy gave me like 3 extra toppings :) Was the perfect end to a scorchingly sunny day!
(5)
Sam M.
The coffee this morning was tasteless and the oatmeal sour.
(2)
Lilly L.
I love ice cream at JP licks. They have the best chocolate ice cream. I'm also a latte lover and adore the extra large size Expresso they offer as it really kicks you into wake up mode. The lines are not fun but the ice cream is right up there with Richardson's in Middleton,Ma. It's worth a visit and they also have local artists art on display which is an added bonus.
(4)
Opal L.
They've added a few more small tables at this branch recently. This was a great idea because a lot of people like to bring their laptops and hang out here for a long time. I went there today for the El Diablo ice cream (on my room mate's recommendation), which is chocolate ice cream with a touch of cayenne, which kicks in only after the ice cream reaches the back of your tongue, while it's going down your throat. I had an espresso with the ice cream. The thing about cayenne is that it makes your taste buds a little more sensitive than usual so the espresso was especially flavorful with the ice cream. This is as gourmet as it gets. I might even go back again tomorrow!
(5)
Kayla A.
So my parents own an ice cream place in CT where they make homemade ice cream and I LOVE IT, I may be a tiny bit bias but it's great. When I moved up to Boston about a year and a half ago I was convinced that when I tried JP licks it would be terrible, no chain-y ice cream place can replace homemade goodness I have loved for years. While it hasn't replaced this spot in my heart it has become a great substitute. The first time I came I got chocolate chip because you have to stay consistent with your flavors when reviewing ice cream shops (in my opinion) and it was great! My all time favorite is a seasonal one: the peanut butter cookie dough! If it's on the menu when you're there I definitely recommend it! Some consistent choices are choc. brownie batter and oreo cake batter. Essentially this place is a bit of a dream as it's a combined coffee and ice cream joint and while I don't love their coffee it isn't bad, however I've only tried their iced coffee so that is all i can comment on.
(4)
X B.
So here's the thing, fun atmosphere, decent staff, seems to have all the trappings of the perfect ice cream place. The ice cream is ok. that's it - just ok. I eat A LOT of ice cream. I'm sure a lot of people do, which is why I'm always so baffled at how people rant and rave and yelp over JP licks. I feel like it's the emperor's new clothes. What is the big deal? It's ok ice-cream. All of this didn't stop me from late night walks to the place during the summer though, you have to get ice-cream somewhere, and this is JP!
(4)
Kirs P.
The last time I was at JP Licks I almost got ice cream all over myself in the shape of small, grubby child hands. How do children do that? I think the kid had more ice cream on his body than he possibly could have consumed. He must have consumed enough, however, to induce some sort of sugar-based maniacal scream-and-run-around-a-thon practically running into me while I was exiting with my cup of frozen margarita sorbet. Luckily I'm agile and was able to contort my body and miss the oncoming disaster. And I didn't even drop my scoop of icy goodness. I have to get back before the end of the month- they have a cucumber flavor that I must try. And a fresh peach. And something called El Diablo. Not sure what that's all about, but devil ice cream must be something I try. And soon.
(4)
Greg J.
The original JP licks rocks. Great community hangout, nice atmosphere and Cool staff. The ice cream is phenomenal and they will cater to all your sweet tooth's needs. The only gripe that I have is that all their non ice cream product are not even close to same league as the ice cream. That's fine though because you go in for the ice cream/ free wi-fi/ and MIDNIGHT closing!
(5)
Jennette H.
Ice Cream is all i go here for.....it's a little on the pricey side if you ask me, but i love it just the same. Love the flavors and i can't really say that i've ever had a bad experience when I went here. I've never tried the coffee here, but then again i'm not much of a coffee fan myself. All in all as long as the ice cream is good i will return :)
(4)
Sean J.
This place is pretty much just good for ice cream/iced goods. I've gone here many times to be disappointed with the options and freshness to their baked goods, and to have bagged tea instead of fresh tea like many other cafes. I wouldn't really consider this place a cafe, but more of a giant baby screaming explosion for yuppies. The lines are crazy long in the summer, so you gotta plan your ice cream experience well. I tend not to go here if I have to, for a great muffin and tea, i'll sport on over to ULA if i want fresh baked goods.. but they will always get me up for some fro yo!
(3)
Vanessa C.
OM NOM NOM! !! ! so its 11:45 pm I got pms that would make even joan crawford look like mary sunshine. I need chocolate. and dairy. IMMEDIATELY! thank heavens for JP Licks up the street from my house where I can get those late night emergency doses of pistachio and black raspberry with hot fudge in a small cup (ask them to put it in a drinking cup so its less messy!) also on weekends they make waffles! we usually get it with strawberries AND ice cream. and maple syrup. and anything else we can convince them to throw on there for free. minus one star for always having long lines (although they do their best to move them along) and b/c for some inexplicable reason I just like the one in davis better. idk idk....
(4)
Carrie P.
Delicious ice cream in so many flavors! The wifi is great, and the staff is always friendly. My fav ice cream place in the Boston area.
(5)
Ann F.
The best of the the best!!! JP Licks has become an institution in Boston. It is expensive and the quality of the coffee has slipped over the last ten years (though they still get lots of brownie points for roasting their own!), but the ice cream is to die for!! Whether you're going for a classic like coffee oreo (my favorite), sweet cream, cherry garciaparra (now called cherry ortiz) or white coffee, or something more inventive like Sam Adams, Cucumber, or El Diablo, you will fall in love with JP Licks. The sorbet is pretty rad too, and if you are genetically predisposed to licorice, the Sambuca ice cream will knock your socks off. No need to get more than a kiddie size in that one. In true JP fashion, there's always a mix of silver-haired, black-tshirt wearing MassArt professors, queer radical hipsters, aging hippies, stroller-pushing yuppies and lesbians, energetic, chalk-toting toddlers, and backpack-toting teenagers. Yes, they've become more corporate than all of us would like in the past ten years (what a shock when they starting taking CREDIT CARDS, and now they have gift cards???), but there is still much to love about JP Licks and its fabulous ice cream.
(5)
Alice O.
Gasp! I love JP Licks. I am trying to talk myself out of going there as I type. First of all, their coffee! Yummy! I try to get here as often as I can for the most delicious coffee I have ever tasted. The ice cream is delicious. I have no idea what Dustin "I burn bras" Todd is talking about. I love the pistachio ice cream! Have you had the pistachio? Huh? Who orders frozen yogurt? What frozen yogurt doesn't taste like medicine? That is the question. Wait a month or so when it gets cool go for a long walk in the Arboretum or around the pond, and when your done head on over to JP Licks for a nice hot cup of the best coffee in the world .
(4)
Adam C.
Got ice cweam cone. Got ice cweam cone! Weee! HEHEHE!!! Got ice cweam. Gwate gwate gwate!!! My wife and I went "foliaging", or whatever the fuck the spring equivalent of that is, in the Arboretum last week and walked ourselves up to JP licks to eat back the important calories we'd walked off. It was good. It was ice cream. What can I say? I think the last time I got an ice cream cone was over 3 years ago. It's got all the shit that a good ice cream place should have from what I can tell. One odd thing, if you plan to drink water I'd suggest getting the bottled water. I did, but then I filled it up on the way out with the tap they have. It was really milky looking. I realize it was just entrained air in the water and all, but really, I'm not drinking water I can't see through AT ALL. Other than that, ICE CWEAM CONE YAY! WEE WOOO!!
(4)
Rich F.
This place is dangerous! Too many flavors! Too close to my house! Must resist! I love it here. Pros- - Tasty, tasty ice cream. -Waffle cones. -Ample seating -An actual free wifi source Cons- - All the little animals with big heads.... (children)
(4)
Kerri O.
Very rich ice cream. Not my first choice, as its mad crowded, and kind of expensive. Actually, really expensive. I think as I wait in the insane line, "Is it worth it?" My answer is usually "No". And I skip off to get a Lime Rickey at Brigham's.
(4)
Michelle M.
I spent 35 minutes in line tonight, at JP Licks. The line was out the door, there were 4 people working, but only two helping customers. The other two were busy putting up chairs and breaking down the coffee area. Meanwhile the store wasn't closing for an hour (it was 11pm). I asked one of the cleaners why they weren't helping customers and she said because they were short staffed all day. I have no idea what that means. It's bad business for workers to be closing down a store that is open, when you have customers wanting to give you money. And making them wait for a long time to give you money will definitely cause them to resent you.
(2)
Maria V.
Wewt! The mothership! Yea, it's a tad pricey, but the flavors are amazing and worth a little splurge. Major major kudos on stocking both dairy-free and sugar-free ice cream (Nutrasweet Chocolate fro-yo).
(5)
Frank B.
Five stars for ice cream,why not they do it better then most and do it consistently. The coconut chocolate almond can't be beat . Not only is the ice cream great but it's a fun spot to sit and talk and people watch,interesting and diverse clientele Take the time to sit outside on warm evening and watch the world go by .Always a line but worth the wait.
(5)
Mike G.
peanut butter anything is good. and the soft serve & ice cream here is darn good. took me over a year in boston to taste this local goodness but am surely a fan.
(4)
Calvin C.
Dear JP Licks, If you make the Oreo Cake Batter always available in all of your shops instead of on a special monthly basis, I will proclaim you as having the best ice cream in the universe and upgrade you to a bazillion stars. In the meantime, you only get four for disappointing me this month with lackluster flavors like El Diablo. Alright, fine. I have no idea what's in the El Diablo, but I'm sure it's not as good as the amalgamation of Oreo and Cake Batter. Also, the crazy ass old dude who was sitting in the corner pounding his fists and mumbling "I'm gonna fuck someone up" was just too sketchy. But hey, at least you didn't brainwash a shitload of people into donating money to pay your back taxes, right? Much Love, Oreo Cookie Monster PS: The dumbass who donated $1,000 to Toscanini's was cracked. However, I might be willing to cut the same deal for a lifetime supply of Oreo Cake Batter. Just a thought....
(4)
Adam E.
Oreo ice cream. Yawn, right? Wrong! This isn't your typical cookies 'n cream supermarket crap, this is the best ice cream in the Woooorld. It's the Celine Dion of ice creams. Only American and you don't want to stab it a bunch of times with the sharpest knife you can find. You want to take a very large spoon to it instead. I'll even spring for the pricey pint and bring it home as a sweet treat for my lady friend, it makes her (and me) that happy. The coffee is pretty good too, depending on the roast they're serving up. I love the holiday blend, which is sadly seasonal. There are so many holidays, why can't we have that blend all the time? Purim is a big holiday, why don't they serve it up throughout March? The other roasts are decent though, you can order them with confidence. The atmosphere is great, despite the less than comfortable pizza parlor type booths. The fireplace is key in the winter, but good luck getting one of those comfy dad chairs in front of the flames. The free wi-fi would be the best part of JP Licks if they didn't excel in so many other, more important areas.
(5)
Guilio Ñ.
Yum, yum, yum...
(4)
Tim B.
Whenever I start thinking that I might want to have kids, I always visit JP Licks for a nice sobering smack in the face. I know, I know, it's ice cream and sprinkles so of course there are going to be children there. But how many Hummer-sized strollers does a guy have to leap over to get a frappe?? Notwithstanding the above, the ice cream is good and I really enjoy seeing all the different flavors they come up with (even though I get the same thing every time). The coffee tends to taste a tad burnt sometimes, but I think the dark roast is pretty good. What I love most is that Licks is just a great neighborhood place to hang out and run into friendly people.
(4)
Kate T.
My beau told me JP Licks was great, and I'd have to agree. I soooo wanted to try the spicy pepper and cinnamon chocolate ice cream, but I didn't want to seem like a glutton trying everything. :-/ I ended up getting Chai ice cream, which was to DIE for. YUM! The boy got Brownie Cheesecake, which was also mighty tasty. JP licks is super expensive though! Am I crazy, or is 1 small and 1 medium in a cup, totally $10 a lot?? I think so! The atmosphere is great though. There's lots of seating, lots of people on their laptops and so forth. I could definitely see myself cozying up for a cuppa joe or a cone next time I am in the area... despite somewhat high prices.
(4)
Al N.
I am a JP Licks zealot. I mean it when I say I have not had better ice cream in this world the only thing better is at Via Della Stinky in Florence, but technically, that's gelato. The staple flavors, like cakebatter, coconut almond chip, cappuccino crunch, and rum raisin, are all close to over-the-top in terms of flavor. You can tell that no ingredient is skimped on, and no ice cream is allowed to get old. I can't comment on the toppings because I never get any. The ice cream stands on its own merits. The coffee is very good (roasted by JP Licks), the cakes are excellent. Service is always friendly and surprisingly fast. There are a lot of tables and even some lounge chairs around a fireplace. My one beef started when this location offered free WiFi. Now the tables get taken up for hours at a time by MacBook-toting blobs. First and foremost, an ice cream parlor is a place for children;I will defend that statement against nukular weapons attacks if I have to. When families can't get a seat in an ice cream place because some BU student who spent tree fiddy is updating his Facebook page for three hours, there is something wrong in the universe. Ditch the wifi and regain that star.
(4)
John F.
It's JP Licks. They're pretty consistent, in my experiences, across all of their locations. The ice cream and frappes are good; not the very best ever, but certainly quality if you're hankering for some cold dessert. The coffee, also, was good. The one thing this location had going for it above others was that, when I went there, they were playing "Milo Goes to College" by Descendents. That was pretty awesome. I'll bump up the rating for the excellent musical taste of the staff.
(4)
Lila S.
OMG i'M The 100th person to review JP licks! Niiice! Well they have the best location with the worst parking, but that aside I can't say too many good things about JP Licks. The staff is always super friendly and down to earth. They have since day on made my Lattes and cakes made to order perfectly and consistantly good! Even when there is a line that goes out the door and wraps around the building, the service is super fast. I return to JP Licks often because they have crazy new flavors that are based on season or occasion and the combinations I feel are very inventive... like I think they had dark beer mixed in with a Moolatta for Octoberfest 08 ... delicious!! Stop by if you can find a place to park!
(4)
Jordan A.
My boyfriend and I went here for ice cream and coffee when visiting Boston last weekend. It was DELICIOUS. We shared a medium cup with 1 scoop mint oreo and 1 scoop cookie dough ice creams. The mint oreo was so refreshing. I think it's some of the best ice cream I have had in a while. The medium was more than enough for us to share, but we finished it anyway because it was so yummy.
(5)
Sean B.
More lactose free iced cream please! Most of everything Ive had has been delicious. the coffee leaves something to be desired however.
(4)
Zoe S.
Come on. It's the original. What must I say?
(5)
Rob H.
Four Words. Yummy. In. My. Tummy.
(4)
Joel G.
This is the most overrated ice cream joint ever. Is it bad, no. But you think the way people talk about this place that they are the next Ben and Jerry. They are not. Their Ice Cream is average at best, WAY OVERPRICED, and you have to wait at least a 1/2 hour to get some. I live 500 yards away and I go to Tedeschi when I have an ice cream craving.
(2)
Jeffrey H.
Employee: "May I help you?" Me: "Yes. I'd like a small Pumpkin in one of those festive Autumn waffle cones." Employee: "........" Apparently he doesn't appreciate a festive Autumn ice cream delight as much as I do. Thanks to my 23 years of Fat Kid professional experience (check my resume), I feel I am qualified to recommend any restaurant, candy shoppe, ice cream parlor, etc to the fine people of Boston. Get the Oreo cake batter. Or now that it's fall, why not spice it up with a lil' Pumpkin action? Get the waffle cones, dipped & rolled. Anything else is just blasphemous. I lick this place. I lick it hard.
(5)
Marcus C.
YES YES YES! The coffee oreo ice cream is the BEST! The guy behind the counter even humored me when I asked what the "peanut butter nipple" flavor was. Of course, I meant "ripple."
(5)
Shaun G.
I think everything off of the menu is great here, I like the Oreo myself. The service is okay, not great and the environment is good. Perfect place to meet, or have an ice cream with friends. I DO know the owner, but that was after the fact that I already liked the great ice cream here. I am kind of restricted in a lot of reviews I think because I happen to know the owner :( That does not mean I'm biased!!!
(4)
JP C.
Ugh. This place has a line out the door every day, and their ice cream isn't even that good. It's a little watery, and less flavorful that I would expect from a place that seems to think they're JP's answer to Ben & Jerry's. Also, their coffee is nasty and their breakfast items (bagels, croissants, etc) are nothing special. I could get the same items in the frozen section of my grocery store, and not have to fight the crowd.
(2)
Jenna C.
Oh. My. God. Jeffrey, look at that ice cream. It's like SO big. There are so many reasons why I love JP Lick: Oreo Cake Batter Regular Cake Batter Coffee Oreo Cookie Dough Chocolate and Coconut dipped waffle cones Speedy service... The list goes on and on. However they disappoint me with their frappes :( There's absolutely no difference between a normal and extra thick frappe... except for the price. And last time I checked a black and white had CHOCOLATE IN IT!
(4)
Cristin M.
For Bostonians who need their ice cream fix even in the winter, the JP branch is the place to hit. It may be the only establishment where you can curl up next to an actual roaring fire with a cup of peanut butter oreo ice cream (choc. jimmies on top) at 11pm on a Thursday. Fire + ice cream = fantastic sensory experience. Sort of the urban, clothed version of steaming in a sauna and then jumping into the ocean or a snowbank. Sigh. If only it were possible to do both. During the holidays, they featured Wild Turkey ice cream. Fluffy, boozy deliciousness that went perfectly with ginger cake and other seasonal desserts. Yet another Boston spot that's even better in the winter.
(4)
Amanda L.
When I first moved here, I had no idea that JP Licks originated in JP, and that JP stood for Jamaica Plain....me smart. The original is definitely the best, but all the other locations are just as awesome. I love walking in a seeing the huge cow. My favorite thing at JP Licks is the oatmeal cookie milkshake. Holy crap just thinking about it makes me want one. The low fat stuff tastes just as good. You really can't go wrong here no matter what.
(5)
Stephanie T.
this may be the original jp licks... but it certainly isn't my favorite summer time locale for ice cream. unless you enjoy yours wedged between megaquadrhundredbillion screaming / crying babies and served to you by less than pleasant ice cream scoopers - though really it's hard to blame them considering there is a NEAR CONSTANT line out the door at this joint. the fireplace is nice, and there is a lot of seating (indoor and outdoor) - but like, good luck finding a spot anyway. if i want jp licks (which i never do, it's really just not my favorite ice cream.. so, when my friends want jp licks..) i drive or take the 39 an extra few minutes over to brigham circle - plenty of parking, plenty of seats - totally worth the extra couple minutes commute to enjoy my ice cream in PEACE.
(3)
Ligaya C.
It's a JP institution. Whenever anyone visits the neighborhood, it's a requirement to hit up JP Licks for a scoop of ice cream. It's a family affair which I really enjoy. You can hang out with the kiddies, pop-up your laptop for WiFi access, or meet up with a gal pal over coffee and the sweet indulgences that JP Licks has to offer. I have tried several ice-cream combinations and come to the conclusion that anything with "coffee oreo" taste like sweet coffee heaven. I've tried to deviate to mix n' match other flavors but I can't contain myself, the coffee oreo is something I can't resist. I just recently ordered one scoop of the coffee oreo and one scoop of their flavor of the day: "happy Lumpy primate" (banana ice cream w/walnuts) and think I found the ultimate combo. The mix of coffee oreo with the lumpy primate gives in to your caffeine fix, while refreshing your taste buds of the sweet banana ice cream.... I know, ice-cream is high in calories and they do offer low-calorie sorbets, soft-serve, etc. But JP Licks is known for their ice cream concoctions which are worth every calorie you consume. Just take a stroll around the Jamaica Pond (approx. over a mile) a few times and that should help you feel less guilty.
(5)
Celeste M.
Like others have said, lately the line has been out the door. I don't think many people think beyond the "We want ice cream -- JP Licks is around the corner" mindset. The ice cream is good and we go for coffee sometimes in the morning. I have not yet tried the waffles on the weekends. It's cozy and cute, but I think that I'm more likely to frequent JP Licks when it's not the summer and there aren't a million people in line. If there's a line; I will skip it and get some another time.
(4)
J. T.
Yummm! Oreo is my favorite flavor of ice cream here. I always try to make it to JP's when I'm in the area.
(4)
Karman L.
Who doesn't like ice-cream? I got the maple butter walut ice-cream...I was eating it half-way by the time I got to the cash register!!! Yum!
(4)
Jonathan B.
Well, I for one like the coffee here, which is roasted on site, although it's not quite as good as Blue Frog's around the corner. Although you can come in on a Saturday morning and find a place to sit and linger over your coffee and muffin, it's lacking something to make it the neighborhood hangout that it should be. Waffles on weekends are a nice touch and an inexpensive choice for a tasty breakfast. Of course the ice cream is the main attraction here and it's top of the line stuff. I love the frappes, and even the low fat stuff is good. Expect LONG lines on weekend afternoons or summer evenings. A separate line for people just wanting coffee at those times would be GREATLY APPRECIATED!
(4)
Diana L.
I want to live here. I want to put a little sleep sack under the cow statue and just snuggle up and live here. This way, I can try every ice cream and every cake and every yogurt that is produced here without missing a single flavor and growing enormously fat but still being happy and not having a care in the world because I would have a mouthful of J.P. Licks ice cream in my mouth at all times. After a satisfying dinner over at Ten Tables, we decided to stop by J.P Licks to see what all the fuss was about. Mind you, we are from San Francisco. Home to Mitchell's ice cream and Bi-Rite Creamery. J.P. Licks was just as good as the stuff we get at home, except they had WALNUT ICE CREAM. I hate walnuts. But I love WALNUT ICE CREAM. I am capitalizing WALNUT ICE CREAM, because you are supposed to say it really loudly with your eyes open up really wide and your mouth open and drooling. It was so good.
(5)
Jennie P.
A Boston classic. Boston has one of the highest concentrations of local, homemade ice cream places in the world, and therefore, as a resident, I see no reason to purchase ice cream from any national or regional chain. Many of Boston's ice cream makers are gourmet/experimental leaning product-wise, though most of them make superior traditional flavors as well. JP Licks has expanded to include many locations locally, yet continues to make great original ice creams, sorbets and sauces. Really, really good. Not to mention, proving they are at heart a home town company, they give out free cones on Red Sox opening day. Enough said. Flavor: Coffee Oreo Herrell's, Toscanini's and Christina's are equally good (I give each one five stars), but each is unique, therefore you should visit them all!
(5)
Josh S.
I have to admit that I like this place a lot! The ice cream is wonderful, often with very imaginative combinations. Even when the line is out the door, it moves very quickly with the very efficient staff. The only reason that I do not give it 5 stars is that the tables do not seem to get wiped down enough and because it is somewhat costly. I like to go with a friend and share a sundae to help make it a little more affordable.
(4)
Kristina M.
As much as I like this this place (good coffee and ice-cream - they even have some non-dairy options) I do think it's a little overpriced. But I just love the cow-motif and the fact that you can sit outside. What's good to know: You get one free coffee with every pound of coffee-beans you buy. Just cool!
(4)
Dan O.
What can I say great - quality ice cream and a big variety of flavors including unique "flavors of month". I had the cucumber flavored ice cream and loved it! Staff is usually friendly and they now offer breakfast including coffee and pre-made breakfast items. Free wifi too. Who knew? Stop by. They have cool decor as well.
(5)
Aluminum Chefs, C and T.
First, let's get the negatives out of the way - it's a little pricey, and the staff aren't always the most attentive. Also, don't bother on free scoop day, the line is down the block. Okay! Good stuff! I might be off my rocker, but I swear this ice cream tastes fresher than most. Probably just a mind trick since I know this ice cream is made in the building, but I still enjoy the thought. Their sundaes are massive and awesome. We've never known a JP Licks employee to be stingy on the toppings. Aluminum Chef T is particularly a fan of the strawberry topping. Aluminum Chef C loves the fact that there are new flavors each month, and almost always, there is a peanut butter-related one. Peanut butter chocolate chip cookie dough ranks at the top of the list. We're not coffee fans in general, but we can vouch for the quality of the ice cream, brownies, and huge lime rickeys. Also, wonderful location for a nice walk on a summer evening. One more thing - if you bring a small child with you, it WILL be entranced by the giant fiberglass cow. That thing has magical powers.
(4)
Michael B.
I'm not sure if the manager has changed recently at this location, but they have really gotten a lot less friendly than they used to be. I used to like to come here for the internet and an ice cream, but thats nearly impossible now. If you've been sitting at a table for more than an hour, they disconnect the internet to clear out all the people using their computers. It's pretty evil. Either have wifi, or don't. But don't lure people in with the promise of being able to get some work done, get them to make a purchase, and then toss them out the door. I'm sure it's harder to make a profit at this place during the winter, but that doesn't mean you have to be a dick. Either ditch the free wifi, or let people use it. I work in a cafe, and we have never pulled any of this crap. You've lost a customer.
(1)
Aretha B.
I like this JP licks because of their plentiful indoor and outdoor seating options. Good people watching. On any given summer night, it's like moths to a flame. Totally a buzz. I would go with the frappes over anything else. Hot fudge is pretty good - not too sweet.
(4)
Nicole P.
Even just the aroma of JP Licks makes me smile! I know that most ice cream places get good ratings because ice cream is just yummy pretty much no matter what but I do think JP Licks is a bit better then some places. For one the ice cream isn't too sweet like Cold Stone. The selection of flavors is also great with innovative flavors like cucumber- surprisingly good! The kiddie size is plenty for me and pretty darn cheap too. This location is big and has plenty of seating, indoor and outdoor. The kids who work there are friendly and graciously allow me to taste several flavors before I settle on my usual mint choco chip. Yay ice cream!
(4)
Matt L.
This is to me, just your ordinary neighborhood ice cream place with tons of flavors, coffee and baked goods and mix ins. It is some creative flavors at times, but thats about it. It is not a blow you away ice cream place. But since I am not a real ice cream lover I guess it is okay. The staff at these places are sometimes a little too relaxed for their own good..meaning in outer space!
(3)
Jean J.
We go here a lot. A lot. The ice cream is great. There's a huge selection of flavors, and you can't really beat that! They have a limited selection of baked goods. They roast their own coffee. There's free wifi. There's a fireplace (great in the winter). They are dog friendly in that dogs are welcome outside, and there is a dog watering area. It's usually empty, but if you let someone know, they will refill it. They also offer Cow Paws, a treat for dogs made up of peanut butter sorbet and cookies. My puppy likes the cookies, is so-so about the sorbet. The downside? Their milkshakes suck. Really, their extra-thick milkshake is runny and gross. They're over-priced. They roast their own coffee, and I am not really a fan. There are a million children there. (OK, it's ice cream. Kids like ice cream. I just hate children.)
(4)
Gail C.
Delicious ice cream. Delicious coffee/tea/smoothies/shakes. Friendly staff. Open from the ass crack of dawn 'til late night. 'Nuff said!
(5)
Rachel J.
Two words: Watermelon sorbet. In the summer it is amazing and refreshing. And lots of other good, rotating flavors too
(5)
Christina L.
4 stars because the service was awesome (but not 5 because there are some other places in LA that are in my opinion the best ice cream). my friend recently moved here and i was visiting her so we weren't too familiar with the ice cream. the guy waiting on us was super friendly about letting us know about the brownie sundae (my friend had gotten the brownie before but was asking if they also had a sundae). he was really patient about explaining how we can order any toppings for free and with as many flavors as we wanted and waited on us as we were very indecisively picking flavors. very creamy ice cream with excellent brownie. he also let us talk to him about moving to boston and he explained about the history of jp licks. amazing. oh yeah, and the ice cream rocks. we ordered the white coffee and cherry orteza (i think) with our brownie. ... not sure tho if i was the biggest fan of the raspberries because i forgot it was winter and there aren't really fresh raspberries, so it was in a sugary sauce. regardless, great place to go.
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 : Loud Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
C J.
The staff here seems to be becoming more professional as of late, and more respectful about how their behavior effects the customer's experience. The music is still a little too loud sometimes, but the place seems cleaner, more organized, and friendlier service. Keep me coming back for more.
(4)Rajiv R.
If you have just finished lunch in a Jamaica Plains Restaurant or just cruising through the area, a stop at J. P. Licks may just be what you need to brighten your day. The ice creams are simply great. On my visit, I tried the Pistachio and Coconut almond chip. Both were simply rich and delicious. This is a must visit if you are in the JP area. I'll be there soon to try their famous espressos.
(4)Jane K.
I like this location. Maybe it's that it's the original location but I enjoy being able to eat outside on the cow patterned tables and just eat my ice cream on a warm day. 3 stars cuz the ice cream I feel is just OK compared to others I've had in the area. (see my other reviews) There isnt' a specific flavor I get here but usually the sweet creams seem to be good and their special flavors are hit or miss. They do a pretty good green tea and I hear their thai iced tea is good when it's in season. Please try the flavor before you get it. esp if you're thinking of getting a scoop of pad thai or wasabi ice cream... weird.
(3)s s.
whoa, are their cone sizes getting smaller and smaller? Husband just came home with ice cream he got to go, and my "small" was microscopic, half a scoop at best! disappointing. two stars because the coffee oreo was adequately tasty. Ron's in Hyde Park & Dedham has the yummiest ice cream in the area, reasonably priced, and generous sized scoops.
(2)Alyssa N.
So many flavors, so little time to try them all. Among the stand-outs have been Manischewitz-flavored (to celebrate Rosh ha Shana. the Jewish New Year, in September), sangria, coconut almond, and coffee Oreo. I love that this store, the 'mother ship' has a fireplace, making it so easy to enjoy ice cream in the dead of winter. Oh, and they're really nice to dogs. Update: Pomegranate sorbet is a must try!
(4)julie p.
This place has gone WAY DOWNHILL! I have been in twice in the last 3 weeks and ended up walking out both times because of the AWFUL service. Today 4 other people in line walked out behind me too. They have a bunch of grungy, not clean (hello, this is a FOOD business), lazy, obnoxious jerks running this place, and the attitude is beyond words. You work in and ice cream store -- how hard can this be? I'm not asking the guru to pick stocks in our terrible economy -- I just want a frappe. Stood in line for 15 minutes with 2 people ahead of me, then they couldn't find any syrup. Last time I ordered a pint to go and they didn't have lids. No Joke. The "help" acts like they could care less. Too busy worrying about their multiple facial piercings (GROSS) and next tattoo. They have exactly ONE flavor that is chocolate-based : plain chocolate. That's it. They call themselves gourmet ice cream, but what they really are is a sorry excuse for Emac & Bolio or Herrells, with obnoxious arrogant idiots behind the counter. The whole place is a joke and they need to fire everyone in there - including the ice cream maker! I'll never go back.
(1)Brian C.
This first JP Licks is my favorite of all in Boston. They have a variety of seating from comfy leather seats to two-person cafe chairs. Everything on their menu is good. I would recommend adding an expresso line.
(4)William W.
Horray for lactose free ice cream! I also find that the Yo-Tango is easy to digest as well. I love the layout of the JP location, especially with the fireplace sitting area. The outdoor seating is nice. Efficient, but nice. It is also a bit pricey but I suppose you pay for what you get (in a good way).
(4)Sean L.
Mmm yet another wonderful JP Licks. I don't know the magnitude of this chain as I've only ever seen the one on Newbury Street and this one, now just a short drive from my apartment in JP. With this place come the lines, but as usual they move fast. One thing this place has that the Newb. St. store does not is a great outdoor seating area. Make sure to get CAKE BATTER milkshake or some variation of the cake batter flavored ice cream. Trust me, it's heaven on your tongue.
(4)Emily S.
Honestly, I wasn't a fan of this place the first three or four times I went. No description of "milk shake" yielded me the milk shake I imagined. Certainly not the thickness. Guess that's a NY thing. The staff always seems a little unsure of what's being asked- I guess they have a high turn over. It's pricey for ice cream. Redeeming quality: best ice cream cake I have EVER had! Their chocolate explosion was everything it could be and more. I expect crunchies in my ice cream cake but instead this has fudge. Equally awesome but we got a side of crushed oreo bits to "dip" in. Made it feel like the cake I was used to on steroids! In short, I'm sorry they don't live up to my milk shake standards and cost more than I'm used to, but damn, can they make an ice cream cake!
(3)Lauren C.
Don't waste your calories. I've given JP Licks a couple tries, a couple earnest tries. With every visit they disappoint even further. It's rather amazing, actually, how reliably underwhelming this place is. Don't get me wrong, I wanted to like JP Licks. Who doesn't want to fall in Yelpable love with a local ice cream shop boasting creative flavors and wifi? Nobody. It's a sure sell, which turns out to be one of this establishment's biggest weaknesses: the smugness. From the surly hipster scoopers to the overbearing management, JP Licks has a serious attitude problem. Which would okay, I mean, it would be bearable if their ice cream was anything to rave about. It's not. The chocolate is chalky, the cookies and cream has an artificial sweetness about it, and they even fudged up the fudge swirl. So why go somewhere where everyone is a dick and the ice cream is sub par? The public library has free wifi, more welcoming management, and better food.
(1)R F.
Awesome after-date place to go for ice cream. I love the space inside and outside and the layout is great. The line moves quick, the selection is awesome, and the ice cream is great. It's kind of expensive ($3 or $4 for a cone of ice cream) but it's worth it. The lights inside are really cool and the art selection they have hanging I like too. Well worth my visit and money and I will be coming back here again...
(4)Ryan S.
Ice cream and atmosphere are excellent. Liberal laptop lingering policy. Coffee is meh, breakfast and lunch selections pretty weak, go for what they're good at and you'll be happy.
(4)Matthew A.
Good ice cream, but EXPENSIVE!!!! So- so baked goods and terrible coffee. Ok for once in a while or special occasion. Hard to justify to drop the cash when one can cross the street and buys a pint of Ben and Jerry's for $3.00
(2)Kevin K.
Free wireless and great customer service. Also, they serve fair trade coffee. Usually, people need to wait in line to be served. However, a small group of seniors, who would have a tough time waiting in line sat down at a table. One of the staff kindly waited on them and brought their order. It was precious. 5 stars.
(5)Angie G.
Where I grew up, we didn't have an amazing ice cream shop that made their own on site. We didn't have a shop that roasted their own coffee beans on site. We definitely didn't have a shop that did ice cream, coffee, pastries, lattes, and sweetness all in one place. So what makes JP Licks better than the rest? Well, its easy. Its local, its fair prices, the staff rocks, the ambience is homey, and its located close enough to walk to, but just far enough to make me not feel like a fatty and indulge on a daily basis. 'Sides, my pocket can't afford ice cream everyday. =c)
(4)Maryn H.
I love the original store the best, but all locations are good!!! I tend to go with the yogurt because it's lower in fat and it tastes just like the real stuff! The waitstaff is friendly and the place is always packed. And who doesn't enjoy the giant cow!?
(4)ChianWen T.
My many an evening of roaming the streets of JP in a quest to find a habitable apartment led me to JP Licks when I needed repast. I ordered a milkshake of sorts. The milkshakes at JP Licks were huge, but they didn't bring the boys to the yard. It seems to be such a happening place and there are still many things on the menu to try, so, I will be back.
(4)Jessica T.
When I first arrived in Boston, my friends took me one to the local hangouts. I was expecting a divy bar, or packed pool hall. I was surprised to find out that J.P. Licks is a popular Jamaica Plain spot, to meet up with friends and concoct some amazing milkshakes and ice-cream fantasies. They're open early, have friendly service, and the benches outside are always nice for chilling on a nice day in Jamaica Plain. I'm not a huge coffee drinker - but the white coffee - definitely peaked my interest, and was great.
(4)Amy C.
On my Yelp sliding scale of stars (say that one 5 times fast!), I generally give establishments 5 stars when MY personal experience has been super good, and I walk away happy and satisfied. I wish that for JP LIcks I could give about 500 stars! We were driving around Allston/Brighton/JP Saturday night, trying to kill some time while the kid was at a show. Dan, friggin' awesome husband that he is, stopped here. The line was pretty long (I imagine much longer in the summer), but moved quickly. The people that work here are really very patient and sweet, especially as I noticed one particular lady asking to sample pretty much every one of their gazillion flavors, and the girl behind the counter smiling pleasantly. I would have hit that lady with a waffle cone, personally. I digress... I was stuck between a bunch of flavors; do I want the Peanut Butter Nipple? *Ripple, but on the board, the R really is more like an N, which had me embarassing Dan by laughing pretty heartily. I have the maturity of a teenage boy, whatev.* The Negative Chip? The Margarita or Fresh Hibiscus Lemon Sorbets? The Cherry Ortiz? Ahhhhhhh... too many yummy choices! I finally settled on a cone of Fresh Banana Oreo (a May flavor) and Sweet Cream Oreo. With rainbow sprinkles, naturally. Oh my word, it was so delicious! As we sat at one of the tables outside, enjoying the perfect May evening, I think I was humming as I ate my ice cream cone. (Dan got the EXTREME Chocolate, and that rocked, too.) Wicked delish ice cream, and it's in an old converted firestation, which is pretty cool. Love it!
(5)Wendy G.
If it weren't for J.P. Licks I wouldn't have any good childhood memories to recreate with my own kids. The decor is eye catching and they often feature local art for sale. The ice cream is phenomenal, a little pricey, but you want quality right? The Oreo is my kids fave and the coconut fudge chip is mine. Also the Raspberry Lime Rickey is the best and I'm not a raspberry lover. They used to make a Peach ice cream with the fuzz and all, but I think they may have discontinued making it :-(
(4)Jenn H.
My fav. place :) they have the best ice cream, shakes, rasberry lime rickies. this is the original J.P. Licks i feel as there only should be one. The staff are wayy cool kids and super nice. you can sit inside or outside. It is always super packed with really long lines but thats ok cuz going to jp licks is mighty fine. and their really quick and do it with a smile :) it smells of fresh milk, vanilla, and coffee beans, cuz they make their own coffee beans here. oh and once you walk in its really cool, like air refreshing cool, that keeps out the hotness from outside, and they have a chalkboard for kids, and couches, and you can post flyers here, and it has bathrooms. :)
(5)Huan z.
This is the original JP licks. I often go there when I lived in JP. I like the seating outside. when the sun is strong, you can also pick seat inside and they have the curtain on for you. Ice creams are very yummy. One of the top in Boston area. Now, they also have one store in Brookline and another at Davis Sq.
(3)Jamie M.
I love this place!! it has the best ice cream ever, great bagels, and more. The JP Licks in JP is the best because of the setting! The building is so cool and the people are so nice! JP licks has smothies and more!! It is great!! Go there PLEASE!!
(5)S B.
Oh man, I wish they still made their black bottom pie! You have to special order it now, and it's just not quite the same. But the ice cream is still really good, and they have a wide and unusual selection. The frozen yogurt is solid too, with lots of good flavors beyond chocolate/vanilla - like peanut butter!
(4)robert o.
This place is great. The ice cream is top notch. What I like is you can come here in the morning or afternoon and hang out. The place is comfy. The coffee is fantastic and roasted on premise. the fact that they are open at 6 am is remarkable. The lines get long on a nice day but everything their is worth it.
(5)Julez J.
Despite the fact that this doesn't happen very often, I have recently suffered bad customer service. I guess this all stems from comparing this JP licks to the one I used to live near in Brigham Circle but I digress. My room mate and I wanted to just run in a grab an iced coffee before running some errands. We were in a bit of a hurry and it wasn't that busy. There was a family at the ice cream end of the counter still deciding on what they wanted so my room mate and I go to stand near the register to order our drinks. The girl behind the counter came up to us and she abrasively asked us if we waited in line. Stop me if I am wrong, but it is my opinion that you shouldn't have to wait in the ice cream section of the counter for iced coffee! I never had that problem at the one in Brigham Circle.
(3)Jeff L.
At night, I get the soft non-fat chocolate yogurt. In the morning, I get a coffee and a low-fat blueberry muffin. I'd say everything tastes like any other store but it has a great local artistic vibe.
(5)Dan C.
This isn't bad ice cream - it's not like you'll put it in your mouth and want to spit it out like Baskin Robbins or something, but yeah, not a fan. I feel you have to work hard to eat this ice cream - it's a harder than I think it should be making the flavor difficult to appreciate. Also really expensive and not really that exciting a selection of flavors. It is nice though that this location offers you a place to sit with the laptop for a while if you want and all that. Overall disappointed though.
(2)Max B.
If you're looking for the best ice cream in the Boston area, you might as well start with JP Licks. With 7 locations (including Newbury St. in Boston, Davis Square in Somerville, and Coolidge Corner in Brookline), this small, independent chain has been running since it was a single store in 1981. All their ice cream is produced in the flagship Jamaica Plain store where they also roast their own coffee. The quality of food and service are both excellent, but if you're coming in on a summer evening, expect a 10-20 minute wait, and no matter what time of year you come, expect to pay out the nose (think 5 bucks for a medium with a topping). The Licks boasts unique seasonal flavors (from wasabi to cucumber to Sam Adams Cream Stout) and is always friendly and delicious, albeit unbelievably expensive.
(4)Georgia Y.
I dig me some JP Licks. Not ONLY does it rep the neighborhood, it's got a great COW motif. Seriously, though: the ice cream is a little pricey, but it's delicious, the staff are generally deserving of good tips, and I love to have a cup of coffee or share a sundae while reading the Phoenix. Points off for two things: not emptying the trash cans and not kicking out the people who inevitably HOG the fireplace on a chilly night (note: IF YOU DIDN'T BUY ANYTHING, MOVE!)
(4)Flora B.
It was too d.g. cold to eat ice cream the day I went in early February... but the hot chocolate was marvelous and I liked the vibe there.
(5)michelle p.
I like their ice cream for sure, maple walnut, yum. I just bought a s'mores sundae and it was the worst sundae I've ever had. The marshmallow was completely forgotten about and they put crusty burnt hot fudge on top. I was sad when I got home because I trudged threw the hale to specifically get this sundae. Oh well. Just stick with the ice cream people.
(3)D M.
I love JP Licks. Why do I give them only three stars then? Because a quart of ice cream to take home is nearly $9, which seems a little bit exessive to me, even though it's awesome ice cream. I went here with our little brother the other day after hitting up the buffet at Bukara, so we got ice cream to go for later. He chose the peanut butter chocolate chip cookie dough chunk, which was as delicious as the name was long. I love ice cream, and the love of ice cream that the city of Boston holds. VIVA LA ICE CREAM! I will pay my money for the awesome ice cream, though I might complain about it every now and again.
(3)B D.
Excellent hot chocolate. Very good ice cream (to compare: Toscanini's is overly creamy. JP licks ice cream has near perfect texture and taste, but I think it takes a back seat to Emack and Bolio's.) Atrocious sherberts; do NOT get a serving of sherbert without asking for a sample first. Sorbets are hit-or-miss (orange cranberry is very good, if you like cranberries.) Hard yogurt is usually very good. Very good hot chocolate. Staff is almost always friendly, quick, and obliging (especially with 'samplers' like myself who try a flavor before committing.) I've always found the portions generous- a "medium" seems HUGE. Fairly often the music is unoffensive and fresh, though one time, I was fighting over the sound of loud rap music to converse with a friend. Unfortunately, the local student population considers "bought a cup of coffee" license to camp out for several hours with their laptops sucking down the free wifi, while patrons circle looking for tables. It'd be nice if the staff did something to mitigate, though I'm not sure I see any practical way to do so...
(4)Chris G.
These emo-scenesters charge way too much and I think they are cooler than me, but I care for their chocolate malt frappe a great deal.
(3)Bonnie G.
Woe is I, who cannot have ice cream as this is a social center of JP! BUT: They do have SOY and make a good iced soy chai as well as iced cafe mocha soy (though at a comparable price to Starbucks which kinda sucks). Oddly enough, their bagels ROCK! Really! Reminds me of the NYC style bagels I grew up on...yumyumyum. ALSO: $2.99 belgian waffle specials on the weekends! 2.99 gets you one large fluffy waffle (which my dining companions said reminded them of cafeteria waffles, but I thought it was yummers), butter from BEAVER VALLEY and syrup. They got tons o toppins so I would go buck wild if I had more cash or money or decision making skills.
(4)L-Train A.
BEST FROZEN YOGURT EVER! Seriously people, you can not tell that it is not ice cream. The hard yogurt is in fact better than most ice cream. Mint chip hard yogurt is amazing. Portions are generous - a small is about a cup. The line moves quickly, and this store is great for people watching with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. One drawback, hot fudge is not hot enough so it gets gelatinous instead of creating an ice cream and fudge moat.
(5)You F.
Hugely overpriced, self-important yuppiedrome (in the yuppie Habitrail that is Centre Street in JP these days) that needs to get its head out of its ass and understand that pouring twice as much sugar and flavoring into ice cream doesn't necessarily make it better. Sometimes, plain old coffee ice cream is OK and Expressoplosion Caffiegasm Iced Yoghurt is a repulsive affectation only designed to assuage the ego of the failed art school student turned confectioner. No one cares if the chicks at the counter smile either. No one ever gave me the finger at Brighams - and the ice cream is better at half the price. Bottom line: they're not surving frozen bat shit but it's not worth what they're charging as long as Brighams is in town.
(2)Jeff W.
Getting to go to the original JP licks is one of the best parts of living here. I love the rotating menu of flavors -- I try to pick a different one every time I'm here (which is usually about once a week) and I've never had one I didn't enjoy. The staff are usually pretty helpful and easy to talk to, the seating is comfortable (although on weekends it can be hard to find a seat!) and there's cool local (?) art hanging on the walls. This is one of the places I always try to take friends who are visiting JP.
(5)Jennifer K.
love jp licks, and so does my dog kona. we like to go although during the summer nights, the line can be long and out the door but there are always a bunch of dogs tied up outside drooling over the ice cream. Love the oreo cookie ice cream, i'm salivating just like pavlov's dogs thinking about it!
(5)Sam S.
I've always found JP Licks to be highly over-rated, their ice cream is just not that creamy. It takes more than wacky flavors to get my vote. The JP store definitely is a looker but again, I think its a distraction from its below average ice cream.
(2)Howard E.
Jp Licks is a Boston institution, and a pretty decent place to get Ice Cream. What's often forgotten is they also are the only coffee roasters in the Hub! Great coffee, decent ice cream, if only they would ban the mass of seemingly unattended children from the hours of 9am-12pm. Ok I guess it is an ice cream shop, but still..
(4)emily d.
Let's talk about the Oatmeal Cookie frozen yogurt. No, let's not - I'm drooling.
(5)Lili X.
The highlight of our visit clearly came when the amused barista (scooperer?) let us try the Cow Paws (I think that's what it was called?) ice cream - which is actually made for dogs. It tastes kind of like bland sour yogurt with a hint of peanut... not bad for pet food!
(5)Shaye J.
cake batter. amazing. but kind of pricey. and bad if you're watching your weight. so. four stars it is.
(4)Malaisha W.
Variety of flavors of ice cream, sherbet, sorbet and frozen yogurt. The ice cream is very tasty. They are a bit pricey and are very crowded, but I will go again and again as it is near my house and sometimes I crave good ice cream.
(4)Julie A.
i heart J.P. Licks. good stuff!
(4)Angel S.
Banana Split
(5)Eve G.
This place deserves five stars because it's not only an ice cream shop, but also a great place to grab a nice cup of coffee in the wee early morning hours. The staff were super friendly when I came at 6:30 in the morning the other day. Perhaps they had already had their daily dosage of coffee, but I think its nice to be greeted with a smile that early in the morning. Also, the frozen yogurt (which actually has more sugar in it than ice cream for all those people who thought it was better for you) is great. I personally like the yogurt because of the texture. Try the oatmeal yogurt. Incredible. Even better is the oatmeal yogurt mixed into a rootbeer float. YUM! Many people make a face when I mention this combo, but once they try it, their hooked.
(5)Mack T.
There have been many times that an ice cream cone from JP Licks has salvaged what seemed like an irretrievably shitty day. And when oreo cakebatter, once a temporary flavor, moved to the permanent roster, JP Licks became my personal hero. The fact that they stay open until midnight year-round (none of this "summer hours" bullshit) makes them even better. If I could give them ten stars, I would.
(5)Carrie S.
Being an "insider", I can say a lot about JP Licks. I've worked here since Sept. 2006. Being a employee, I don't have much to complain about. Well, Maybe a bit but I'm not going to go there haha. As a customer, I could complain about the prices or ice cream and yogurt, but, if you're buying bulk ice cream, like pints and quarts, you can't go wrong. 5 and 8 dollars are really cheap for great, homemade ice cream. If you didn't know, everything we have is produced in the kitchen in the back. I think thats awesome. All the coffee is roasted in the store. I have a few complaints, one being that there is no recycling and another being that there are no coffee sleeves so we waste a lot of paper on extra cups. If you come in, and I don't ask you if you want a topping on your ice cream or frozen yogurt, just tell me, I'm not a big fan of wasting a paper cup because I have to put your ice cream in a bigger cup to put a topping on it. Oh, and, to all those people who love our free wireless, please please don't sit around for 8 hours and use it. You're taking up chairs that people who have bought more than just a single coffee or tea could be sitting on. I'm not telling you to not come to our store, just don't do pointless things for pointless hours at the expense of others. Our store is very popular and people like to sit in, so be considerate. We can't actual tell people to leave, so I'm sorry. we're working on signs though.
(4)R S.
Excellent coffee. I'd give them 5-stars if they would have an "express coffee" line when it gets busy with ice-cream orders.
(4)Matthew M.
JP Licks is pretty cool. Their ice cream is better than most of what you find at the supermarket and their coffee is a much welcomed alternative to Dunkin Donuts (why do people think DD has good coffee? It's roasted so light it still tastes "green!"), or Starbucks (good coffee, evil-pirate business practices). I also appreciate the wide variety of frozen yogurt flavors that they have. I like ice cream, sometimes too much, so it's nice to have (slightly) healthier alternatives beyond the standard chocolate and vanilla.
(4)Abby L.
This place is the social center of JP, and it's GOOD! I was there tonight and had the Apple Crisp ice cream. SOOOO yummy. The flavors rotate, so you never know just what you're going to get. They are very patient about giving lots of samples of what they have, so your decision is made slightly easier. Sometimes I wish they had a few more stable things, so I could have an old stand-by, but this keeps me from getting into a rut. Great place. Go if you're in the area. You can't miss it. It's the big red brick building with a ginormous cow on the front!
(4)Aaron H.
Absolutely the best ice cream you can buy. So good and always home made. So many great flavors. Along with all of the stand bys, they have a continually evolving list of inventive and delicious flavors. Christamas was all about the candy cane and gingerbread. Last night I had the chai. Normally, I'm a sucker for the mint chocolate chip. Throw in the comfy chairs, plentiful seating, a cozy fireplace, and a giant cow and you've got a sure winner. To top it all off, they are now offering free wi-fi. What's not to love?
(5)Katy G.
How can you not love an ice cream parlor that has a life sized cow statue and a fireplace? Not to mention the excellent ice cream. There's a wide variety of hard ice creams, some softs, frozen yogurts, and sorbets. This summer they've added cox trax (a nifty peanut butter with chocolate chunks that doesn't go over the peanut butter threshold) and cake batter (apparently the new 'hot' flavor in the city, but they also have old favorites. Um, I don't know anyone whose tried the wasabi or hot sauce flavors yet, but I look forward to the facial reactions!
(4)Kris K.
Whether you are a student studying, a group of children, or in need of some great ice cream/waffles/coffee, this is the place to kick back (Hours: 6am-midnight). The staff are fun and easy-going. The atmosphere is creative, large, and u-shaped enough for everyone to have their own area. Usually there's art on the walls from local artists, uniquely colored walls and a posting board near the restrooms. In the summer you can sit outside. The outdoors area has a more public area near the sidewalk and more private areas near the back.
(5)Mike P.
Great Ice Cream. My favorite is the "Rum Raisin" (made with real rum). Also where else can you sit in a Disney-like tea-cup.
(5)Zach C.
The ice cream is delicious, and living in the neighborhood almost makes sneaking over for a pint an economical option. The coffee (roasted in-house) is more than decent, and most on espresso duty can pull a good latte. Recently, they've ditched the booths in favor of even more small tables, welcoming the afternoon laptop squatters.
(5)seana m.
I remeber the orginal JP Licks years ago. Now in a renovated firehouse, JP Licks is still in the heart of JP with cute tables outside and funky balck and white painted walls that look like cow hide. There are squiggly red neon lights that hang from the ceiling that look like udders and seating. It seems like there is always a line but it moves quick. The alternative, young staff is very helpful and super friendly. People watching is always a hoot. get anything from home brewed coofee drinks and frappes to low fat ice cream to frozen yogurt to soft servr to ice cream. They now have specials for the rerleased movie Charlie and the Chocolate factory. There is a vanilla mized with Wonka bars. I love the white coffee and the coffe oreo.
(5)Karla V.
I have long been a JP Licks fan, but this is the only forum I could find to say: I've never seen a local business that is so hard to communicate with. Can't find a phone number for headquarters; there is absolutely zero way to communicate with them on their website. (Well, one time I tried to reach headquarters and you know what I tried? Putting the information on an employment application form. Sad. And I never heard back from anyone.) And get this: they're on Twitter, but no updates and don't follow anyone. So they apparently don't care much about hearing from their client base. So, JP Licks, if you guys care about your customers, start listening. And start using obvious and simple ways to communicate. A phone number, a "contact us" ability on the website, really easy stuff. Or possibly even Twitter! (But it means you have to follow and listen, not just sell your stuff.) Oh, and if I've got your attention, why no Chocolate Chocolate Chip yogurt? It used to come around every July. Now, no sign of it. I've dropped notes in the Suggestions box on this topic -- nothing. Well, maybe it means JP Licks has hit a tipping point, and it's time for a competitor that listens.
(2)Melissa B.
Grew up eating ice cream here & still love it. Everything is awesome!
(5)Jolene H.
The original JP Licks! YUM. Ice cream served from 6am to midnight every single day. This place understands the insatiable hunger of irrational human craving. What can I say- rich ice cream with wonderful coffee. I was on a high before, during and after my little visit.
(5)greg f.
The game of war, like the game of Ice cream, is difficult to play. The fight for Ice cream is so challenging, yet so beautiful, that only a handful of players can truly do it with excellence. Postwar France had seen a cleaner, faster, more industrialized Ice Cream production that here in America, and suffered for it. JP licks best represents luxury treats for the working man, the proletariat, the stiff, the hipster, the dude who sings on the corner in which we want to beat up.
(5)Jenn H.
My fav. place :) they have the best ice cream, shakes, rasberry lime rickies. this is the original J.P. Licks i feel as there only should be one. The staff are wayy cool kids and super nice. you can sit inside or outside. It is always super packed with really long lines but thats ok cuz going to jp licks is mighty fine. and their really quick and do it with a smile :) it smells of fresh milk, vanilla, and coffee beans, cuz they make their own coffee beans here. oh and once you walk in its really cool, like air refreshing cool, that keeps out the hotness from outside, and they have a chalkboard for kids, and couches, and you can post flyers here, and it has bathrooms. :)
(5)Huan z.
This is the original JP licks. I often go there when I lived in JP. I like the seating outside. when the sun is strong, you can also pick seat inside and they have the curtain on for you. Ice creams are very yummy. One of the top in Boston area. Now, they also have one store in Brookline and another at Davis Sq.
(3)Jamie M.
I love this place!! it has the best ice cream ever, great bagels, and more. The JP Licks in JP is the best because of the setting! The building is so cool and the people are so nice! JP licks has smothies and more!! It is great!! Go there PLEASE!!
(5)S B.
Oh man, I wish they still made their black bottom pie! You have to special order it now, and it's just not quite the same. But the ice cream is still really good, and they have a wide and unusual selection. The frozen yogurt is solid too, with lots of good flavors beyond chocolate/vanilla - like peanut butter!
(4)robert o.
This place is great. The ice cream is top notch. What I like is you can come here in the morning or afternoon and hang out. The place is comfy. The coffee is fantastic and roasted on premise. the fact that they are open at 6 am is remarkable. The lines get long on a nice day but everything their is worth it.
(5)michelle p.
I like their ice cream for sure, maple walnut, yum. I just bought a s'mores sundae and it was the worst sundae I've ever had. The marshmallow was completely forgotten about and they put crusty burnt hot fudge on top. I was sad when I got home because I trudged threw the hale to specifically get this sundae. Oh well. Just stick with the ice cream people.
(3)Julie A.
i heart J.P. Licks. good stuff!
(4)Angel S.
Banana Split
(5)Julez J.
Despite the fact that this doesn't happen very often, I have recently suffered bad customer service. I guess this all stems from comparing this JP licks to the one I used to live near in Brigham Circle but I digress. My room mate and I wanted to just run in a grab an iced coffee before running some errands. We were in a bit of a hurry and it wasn't that busy. There was a family at the ice cream end of the counter still deciding on what they wanted so my room mate and I go to stand near the register to order our drinks. The girl behind the counter came up to us and she abrasively asked us if we waited in line. Stop me if I am wrong, but it is my opinion that you shouldn't have to wait in the ice cream section of the counter for iced coffee! I never had that problem at the one in Brigham Circle.
(3)Jeff L.
At night, I get the soft non-fat chocolate yogurt. In the morning, I get a coffee and a low-fat blueberry muffin. I'd say everything tastes like any other store but it has a great local artistic vibe.
(5)Dan C.
This isn't bad ice cream - it's not like you'll put it in your mouth and want to spit it out like Baskin Robbins or something, but yeah, not a fan. I feel you have to work hard to eat this ice cream - it's a harder than I think it should be making the flavor difficult to appreciate. Also really expensive and not really that exciting a selection of flavors. It is nice though that this location offers you a place to sit with the laptop for a while if you want and all that. Overall disappointed though.
(2)Max B.
If you're looking for the best ice cream in the Boston area, you might as well start with JP Licks. With 7 locations (including Newbury St. in Boston, Davis Square in Somerville, and Coolidge Corner in Brookline), this small, independent chain has been running since it was a single store in 1981. All their ice cream is produced in the flagship Jamaica Plain store where they also roast their own coffee. The quality of food and service are both excellent, but if you're coming in on a summer evening, expect a 10-20 minute wait, and no matter what time of year you come, expect to pay out the nose (think 5 bucks for a medium with a topping). The Licks boasts unique seasonal flavors (from wasabi to cucumber to Sam Adams Cream Stout) and is always friendly and delicious, albeit unbelievably expensive.
(4)Georgia Y.
I dig me some JP Licks. Not ONLY does it rep the neighborhood, it's got a great COW motif. Seriously, though: the ice cream is a little pricey, but it's delicious, the staff are generally deserving of good tips, and I love to have a cup of coffee or share a sundae while reading the Phoenix. Points off for two things: not emptying the trash cans and not kicking out the people who inevitably HOG the fireplace on a chilly night (note: IF YOU DIDN'T BUY ANYTHING, MOVE!)
(4)Flora B.
It was too d.g. cold to eat ice cream the day I went in early February... but the hot chocolate was marvelous and I liked the vibe there.
(5)D M.
I love JP Licks. Why do I give them only three stars then? Because a quart of ice cream to take home is nearly $9, which seems a little bit exessive to me, even though it's awesome ice cream. I went here with our little brother the other day after hitting up the buffet at Bukara, so we got ice cream to go for later. He chose the peanut butter chocolate chip cookie dough chunk, which was as delicious as the name was long. I love ice cream, and the love of ice cream that the city of Boston holds. VIVA LA ICE CREAM! I will pay my money for the awesome ice cream, though I might complain about it every now and again.
(3)B D.
Excellent hot chocolate. Very good ice cream (to compare: Toscanini's is overly creamy. JP licks ice cream has near perfect texture and taste, but I think it takes a back seat to Emack and Bolio's.) Atrocious sherberts; do NOT get a serving of sherbert without asking for a sample first. Sorbets are hit-or-miss (orange cranberry is very good, if you like cranberries.) Hard yogurt is usually very good. Very good hot chocolate. Staff is almost always friendly, quick, and obliging (especially with 'samplers' like myself who try a flavor before committing.) I've always found the portions generous- a "medium" seems HUGE. Fairly often the music is unoffensive and fresh, though one time, I was fighting over the sound of loud rap music to converse with a friend. Unfortunately, the local student population considers "bought a cup of coffee" license to camp out for several hours with their laptops sucking down the free wifi, while patrons circle looking for tables. It'd be nice if the staff did something to mitigate, though I'm not sure I see any practical way to do so...
(4)Chris G.
These emo-scenesters charge way too much and I think they are cooler than me, but I care for their chocolate malt frappe a great deal.
(3)Bonnie G.
Woe is I, who cannot have ice cream as this is a social center of JP! BUT: They do have SOY and make a good iced soy chai as well as iced cafe mocha soy (though at a comparable price to Starbucks which kinda sucks). Oddly enough, their bagels ROCK! Really! Reminds me of the NYC style bagels I grew up on...yumyumyum. ALSO: $2.99 belgian waffle specials on the weekends! 2.99 gets you one large fluffy waffle (which my dining companions said reminded them of cafeteria waffles, but I thought it was yummers), butter from BEAVER VALLEY and syrup. They got tons o toppins so I would go buck wild if I had more cash or money or decision making skills.
(4)L-Train A.
BEST FROZEN YOGURT EVER! Seriously people, you can not tell that it is not ice cream. The hard yogurt is in fact better than most ice cream. Mint chip hard yogurt is amazing. Portions are generous - a small is about a cup. The line moves quickly, and this store is great for people watching with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. One drawback, hot fudge is not hot enough so it gets gelatinous instead of creating an ice cream and fudge moat.
(5)You F.
Hugely overpriced, self-important yuppiedrome (in the yuppie Habitrail that is Centre Street in JP these days) that needs to get its head out of its ass and understand that pouring twice as much sugar and flavoring into ice cream doesn't necessarily make it better. Sometimes, plain old coffee ice cream is OK and Expressoplosion Caffiegasm Iced Yoghurt is a repulsive affectation only designed to assuage the ego of the failed art school student turned confectioner. No one cares if the chicks at the counter smile either. No one ever gave me the finger at Brighams - and the ice cream is better at half the price. Bottom line: they're not surving frozen bat shit but it's not worth what they're charging as long as Brighams is in town.
(2)Jeff W.
Getting to go to the original JP licks is one of the best parts of living here. I love the rotating menu of flavors -- I try to pick a different one every time I'm here (which is usually about once a week) and I've never had one I didn't enjoy. The staff are usually pretty helpful and easy to talk to, the seating is comfortable (although on weekends it can be hard to find a seat!) and there's cool local (?) art hanging on the walls. This is one of the places I always try to take friends who are visiting JP.
(5)Jennifer K.
love jp licks, and so does my dog kona. we like to go although during the summer nights, the line can be long and out the door but there are always a bunch of dogs tied up outside drooling over the ice cream. Love the oreo cookie ice cream, i'm salivating just like pavlov's dogs thinking about it!
(5)Sam S.
I've always found JP Licks to be highly over-rated, their ice cream is just not that creamy. It takes more than wacky flavors to get my vote. The JP store definitely is a looker but again, I think its a distraction from its below average ice cream.
(2)Howard E.
Jp Licks is a Boston institution, and a pretty decent place to get Ice Cream. What's often forgotten is they also are the only coffee roasters in the Hub! Great coffee, decent ice cream, if only they would ban the mass of seemingly unattended children from the hours of 9am-12pm. Ok I guess it is an ice cream shop, but still..
(4)emily d.
Let's talk about the Oatmeal Cookie frozen yogurt. No, let's not - I'm drooling.
(5)Lili X.
The highlight of our visit clearly came when the amused barista (scooperer?) let us try the Cow Paws (I think that's what it was called?) ice cream - which is actually made for dogs. It tastes kind of like bland sour yogurt with a hint of peanut... not bad for pet food!
(5)Shaye J.
cake batter. amazing. but kind of pricey. and bad if you're watching your weight. so. four stars it is.
(4)Malaisha W.
Variety of flavors of ice cream, sherbet, sorbet and frozen yogurt. The ice cream is very tasty. They are a bit pricey and are very crowded, but I will go again and again as it is near my house and sometimes I crave good ice cream.
(4)Eve G.
This place deserves five stars because it's not only an ice cream shop, but also a great place to grab a nice cup of coffee in the wee early morning hours. The staff were super friendly when I came at 6:30 in the morning the other day. Perhaps they had already had their daily dosage of coffee, but I think its nice to be greeted with a smile that early in the morning. Also, the frozen yogurt (which actually has more sugar in it than ice cream for all those people who thought it was better for you) is great. I personally like the yogurt because of the texture. Try the oatmeal yogurt. Incredible. Even better is the oatmeal yogurt mixed into a rootbeer float. YUM! Many people make a face when I mention this combo, but once they try it, their hooked.
(5)Mack T.
There have been many times that an ice cream cone from JP Licks has salvaged what seemed like an irretrievably shitty day. And when oreo cakebatter, once a temporary flavor, moved to the permanent roster, JP Licks became my personal hero. The fact that they stay open until midnight year-round (none of this "summer hours" bullshit) makes them even better. If I could give them ten stars, I would.
(5)Carrie S.
Being an "insider", I can say a lot about JP Licks. I've worked here since Sept. 2006. Being a employee, I don't have much to complain about. Well, Maybe a bit but I'm not going to go there haha. As a customer, I could complain about the prices or ice cream and yogurt, but, if you're buying bulk ice cream, like pints and quarts, you can't go wrong. 5 and 8 dollars are really cheap for great, homemade ice cream. If you didn't know, everything we have is produced in the kitchen in the back. I think thats awesome. All the coffee is roasted in the store. I have a few complaints, one being that there is no recycling and another being that there are no coffee sleeves so we waste a lot of paper on extra cups. If you come in, and I don't ask you if you want a topping on your ice cream or frozen yogurt, just tell me, I'm not a big fan of wasting a paper cup because I have to put your ice cream in a bigger cup to put a topping on it. Oh, and, to all those people who love our free wireless, please please don't sit around for 8 hours and use it. You're taking up chairs that people who have bought more than just a single coffee or tea could be sitting on. I'm not telling you to not come to our store, just don't do pointless things for pointless hours at the expense of others. Our store is very popular and people like to sit in, so be considerate. We can't actual tell people to leave, so I'm sorry. we're working on signs though.
(4)R S.
Excellent coffee. I'd give them 5-stars if they would have an "express coffee" line when it gets busy with ice-cream orders.
(4)Matthew M.
JP Licks is pretty cool. Their ice cream is better than most of what you find at the supermarket and their coffee is a much welcomed alternative to Dunkin Donuts (why do people think DD has good coffee? It's roasted so light it still tastes "green!"), or Starbucks (good coffee, evil-pirate business practices). I also appreciate the wide variety of frozen yogurt flavors that they have. I like ice cream, sometimes too much, so it's nice to have (slightly) healthier alternatives beyond the standard chocolate and vanilla.
(4)Abby L.
This place is the social center of JP, and it's GOOD! I was there tonight and had the Apple Crisp ice cream. SOOOO yummy. The flavors rotate, so you never know just what you're going to get. They are very patient about giving lots of samples of what they have, so your decision is made slightly easier. Sometimes I wish they had a few more stable things, so I could have an old stand-by, but this keeps me from getting into a rut. Great place. Go if you're in the area. You can't miss it. It's the big red brick building with a ginormous cow on the front!
(4)Aaron H.
Absolutely the best ice cream you can buy. So good and always home made. So many great flavors. Along with all of the stand bys, they have a continually evolving list of inventive and delicious flavors. Christamas was all about the candy cane and gingerbread. Last night I had the chai. Normally, I'm a sucker for the mint chocolate chip. Throw in the comfy chairs, plentiful seating, a cozy fireplace, and a giant cow and you've got a sure winner. To top it all off, they are now offering free wi-fi. What's not to love?
(5)Katy G.
How can you not love an ice cream parlor that has a life sized cow statue and a fireplace? Not to mention the excellent ice cream. There's a wide variety of hard ice creams, some softs, frozen yogurts, and sorbets. This summer they've added cox trax (a nifty peanut butter with chocolate chunks that doesn't go over the peanut butter threshold) and cake batter (apparently the new 'hot' flavor in the city, but they also have old favorites. Um, I don't know anyone whose tried the wasabi or hot sauce flavors yet, but I look forward to the facial reactions!
(4)Kris K.
Whether you are a student studying, a group of children, or in need of some great ice cream/waffles/coffee, this is the place to kick back (Hours: 6am-midnight). The staff are fun and easy-going. The atmosphere is creative, large, and u-shaped enough for everyone to have their own area. Usually there's art on the walls from local artists, uniquely colored walls and a posting board near the restrooms. In the summer you can sit outside. The outdoors area has a more public area near the sidewalk and more private areas near the back.
(5)Mike P.
Great Ice Cream. My favorite is the "Rum Raisin" (made with real rum). Also where else can you sit in a Disney-like tea-cup.
(5)Zach C.
The ice cream is delicious, and living in the neighborhood almost makes sneaking over for a pint an economical option. The coffee (roasted in-house) is more than decent, and most on espresso duty can pull a good latte. Recently, they've ditched the booths in favor of even more small tables, welcoming the afternoon laptop squatters.
(5)seana m.
I remeber the orginal JP Licks years ago. Now in a renovated firehouse, JP Licks is still in the heart of JP with cute tables outside and funky balck and white painted walls that look like cow hide. There are squiggly red neon lights that hang from the ceiling that look like udders and seating. It seems like there is always a line but it moves quick. The alternative, young staff is very helpful and super friendly. People watching is always a hoot. get anything from home brewed coofee drinks and frappes to low fat ice cream to frozen yogurt to soft servr to ice cream. They now have specials for the rerleased movie Charlie and the Chocolate factory. There is a vanilla mized with Wonka bars. I love the white coffee and the coffe oreo.
(5)Karla V.
I have long been a JP Licks fan, but this is the only forum I could find to say: I've never seen a local business that is so hard to communicate with. Can't find a phone number for headquarters; there is absolutely zero way to communicate with them on their website. (Well, one time I tried to reach headquarters and you know what I tried? Putting the information on an employment application form. Sad. And I never heard back from anyone.) And get this: they're on Twitter, but no updates and don't follow anyone. So they apparently don't care much about hearing from their client base. So, JP Licks, if you guys care about your customers, start listening. And start using obvious and simple ways to communicate. A phone number, a "contact us" ability on the website, really easy stuff. Or possibly even Twitter! (But it means you have to follow and listen, not just sell your stuff.) Oh, and if I've got your attention, why no Chocolate Chocolate Chip yogurt? It used to come around every July. Now, no sign of it. I've dropped notes in the Suggestions box on this topic -- nothing. Well, maybe it means JP Licks has hit a tipping point, and it's time for a competitor that listens.
(2)Melissa B.
Grew up eating ice cream here & still love it. Everything is awesome!
(5)Alyssa N.
So many flavors, so little time to try them all. Among the stand-outs have been Manischewitz-flavored (to celebrate Rosh ha Shana. the Jewish New Year, in September), sangria, coconut almond, and coffee Oreo. I love that this store, the 'mother ship' has a fireplace, making it so easy to enjoy ice cream in the dead of winter. Oh, and they're really nice to dogs. Update: Pomegranate sorbet is a must try!
(4)Jolene H.
The original JP Licks! YUM. Ice cream served from 6am to midnight every single day. This place understands the insatiable hunger of irrational human craving. What can I say- rich ice cream with wonderful coffee. I was on a high before, during and after my little visit.
(5)s s.
whoa, are their cone sizes getting smaller and smaller? Husband just came home with ice cream he got to go, and my "small" was microscopic, half a scoop at best! disappointing. two stars because the coffee oreo was adequately tasty. Ron's in Hyde Park & Dedham has the yummiest ice cream in the area, reasonably priced, and generous sized scoops.
(2)C J.
The staff here seems to be becoming more professional as of late, and more respectful about how their behavior effects the customer's experience. The music is still a little too loud sometimes, but the place seems cleaner, more organized, and friendlier service. Keep me coming back for more.
(4)Rajiv R.
If you have just finished lunch in a Jamaica Plains Restaurant or just cruising through the area, a stop at J. P. Licks may just be what you need to brighten your day. The ice creams are simply great. On my visit, I tried the Pistachio and Coconut almond chip. Both were simply rich and delicious. This is a must visit if you are in the JP area. I'll be there soon to try their famous espressos.
(4)Jane K.
I like this location. Maybe it's that it's the original location but I enjoy being able to eat outside on the cow patterned tables and just eat my ice cream on a warm day. 3 stars cuz the ice cream I feel is just OK compared to others I've had in the area. (see my other reviews) There isnt' a specific flavor I get here but usually the sweet creams seem to be good and their special flavors are hit or miss. They do a pretty good green tea and I hear their thai iced tea is good when it's in season. Please try the flavor before you get it. esp if you're thinking of getting a scoop of pad thai or wasabi ice cream... weird.
(3)julie p.
This place has gone WAY DOWNHILL! I have been in twice in the last 3 weeks and ended up walking out both times because of the AWFUL service. Today 4 other people in line walked out behind me too. They have a bunch of grungy, not clean (hello, this is a FOOD business), lazy, obnoxious jerks running this place, and the attitude is beyond words. You work in and ice cream store -- how hard can this be? I'm not asking the guru to pick stocks in our terrible economy -- I just want a frappe. Stood in line for 15 minutes with 2 people ahead of me, then they couldn't find any syrup. Last time I ordered a pint to go and they didn't have lids. No Joke. The "help" acts like they could care less. Too busy worrying about their multiple facial piercings (GROSS) and next tattoo. They have exactly ONE flavor that is chocolate-based : plain chocolate. That's it. They call themselves gourmet ice cream, but what they really are is a sorry excuse for Emac & Bolio or Herrells, with obnoxious arrogant idiots behind the counter. The whole place is a joke and they need to fire everyone in there - including the ice cream maker! I'll never go back.
(1)Brian C.
This first JP Licks is my favorite of all in Boston. They have a variety of seating from comfy leather seats to two-person cafe chairs. Everything on their menu is good. I would recommend adding an expresso line.
(4)William W.
Horray for lactose free ice cream! I also find that the Yo-Tango is easy to digest as well. I love the layout of the JP location, especially with the fireplace sitting area. The outdoor seating is nice. Efficient, but nice. It is also a bit pricey but I suppose you pay for what you get (in a good way).
(4)Sean L.
Mmm yet another wonderful JP Licks. I don't know the magnitude of this chain as I've only ever seen the one on Newbury Street and this one, now just a short drive from my apartment in JP. With this place come the lines, but as usual they move fast. One thing this place has that the Newb. St. store does not is a great outdoor seating area. Make sure to get CAKE BATTER milkshake or some variation of the cake batter flavored ice cream. Trust me, it's heaven on your tongue.
(4)Emily S.
Honestly, I wasn't a fan of this place the first three or four times I went. No description of "milk shake" yielded me the milk shake I imagined. Certainly not the thickness. Guess that's a NY thing. The staff always seems a little unsure of what's being asked- I guess they have a high turn over. It's pricey for ice cream. Redeeming quality: best ice cream cake I have EVER had! Their chocolate explosion was everything it could be and more. I expect crunchies in my ice cream cake but instead this has fudge. Equally awesome but we got a side of crushed oreo bits to "dip" in. Made it feel like the cake I was used to on steroids! In short, I'm sorry they don't live up to my milk shake standards and cost more than I'm used to, but damn, can they make an ice cream cake!
(3)Lauren C.
Don't waste your calories. I've given JP Licks a couple tries, a couple earnest tries. With every visit they disappoint even further. It's rather amazing, actually, how reliably underwhelming this place is. Don't get me wrong, I wanted to like JP Licks. Who doesn't want to fall in Yelpable love with a local ice cream shop boasting creative flavors and wifi? Nobody. It's a sure sell, which turns out to be one of this establishment's biggest weaknesses: the smugness. From the surly hipster scoopers to the overbearing management, JP Licks has a serious attitude problem. Which would okay, I mean, it would be bearable if their ice cream was anything to rave about. It's not. The chocolate is chalky, the cookies and cream has an artificial sweetness about it, and they even fudged up the fudge swirl. So why go somewhere where everyone is a dick and the ice cream is sub par? The public library has free wifi, more welcoming management, and better food.
(1)R F.
Awesome after-date place to go for ice cream. I love the space inside and outside and the layout is great. The line moves quick, the selection is awesome, and the ice cream is great. It's kind of expensive ($3 or $4 for a cone of ice cream) but it's worth it. The lights inside are really cool and the art selection they have hanging I like too. Well worth my visit and money and I will be coming back here again...
(4)Ryan S.
Ice cream and atmosphere are excellent. Liberal laptop lingering policy. Coffee is meh, breakfast and lunch selections pretty weak, go for what they're good at and you'll be happy.
(4)Matthew A.
Good ice cream, but EXPENSIVE!!!! So- so baked goods and terrible coffee. Ok for once in a while or special occasion. Hard to justify to drop the cash when one can cross the street and buys a pint of Ben and Jerry's for $3.00
(2)Kevin K.
Free wireless and great customer service. Also, they serve fair trade coffee. Usually, people need to wait in line to be served. However, a small group of seniors, who would have a tough time waiting in line sat down at a table. One of the staff kindly waited on them and brought their order. It was precious. 5 stars.
(5)Angie G.
Where I grew up, we didn't have an amazing ice cream shop that made their own on site. We didn't have a shop that roasted their own coffee beans on site. We definitely didn't have a shop that did ice cream, coffee, pastries, lattes, and sweetness all in one place. So what makes JP Licks better than the rest? Well, its easy. Its local, its fair prices, the staff rocks, the ambience is homey, and its located close enough to walk to, but just far enough to make me not feel like a fatty and indulge on a daily basis. 'Sides, my pocket can't afford ice cream everyday. =c)
(4)Maryn H.
I love the original store the best, but all locations are good!!! I tend to go with the yogurt because it's lower in fat and it tastes just like the real stuff! The waitstaff is friendly and the place is always packed. And who doesn't enjoy the giant cow!?
(4)greg f.
The game of war, like the game of Ice cream, is difficult to play. The fight for Ice cream is so challenging, yet so beautiful, that only a handful of players can truly do it with excellence. Postwar France had seen a cleaner, faster, more industrialized Ice Cream production that here in America, and suffered for it. JP licks best represents luxury treats for the working man, the proletariat, the stiff, the hipster, the dude who sings on the corner in which we want to beat up.
(5)ChianWen T.
My many an evening of roaming the streets of JP in a quest to find a habitable apartment led me to JP Licks when I needed repast. I ordered a milkshake of sorts. The milkshakes at JP Licks were huge, but they didn't bring the boys to the yard. It seems to be such a happening place and there are still many things on the menu to try, so, I will be back.
(4)Jessica T.
When I first arrived in Boston, my friends took me one to the local hangouts. I was expecting a divy bar, or packed pool hall. I was surprised to find out that J.P. Licks is a popular Jamaica Plain spot, to meet up with friends and concoct some amazing milkshakes and ice-cream fantasies. They're open early, have friendly service, and the benches outside are always nice for chilling on a nice day in Jamaica Plain. I'm not a huge coffee drinker - but the white coffee - definitely peaked my interest, and was great.
(4)Amy C.
On my Yelp sliding scale of stars (say that one 5 times fast!), I generally give establishments 5 stars when MY personal experience has been super good, and I walk away happy and satisfied. I wish that for JP LIcks I could give about 500 stars! We were driving around Allston/Brighton/JP Saturday night, trying to kill some time while the kid was at a show. Dan, friggin' awesome husband that he is, stopped here. The line was pretty long (I imagine much longer in the summer), but moved quickly. The people that work here are really very patient and sweet, especially as I noticed one particular lady asking to sample pretty much every one of their gazillion flavors, and the girl behind the counter smiling pleasantly. I would have hit that lady with a waffle cone, personally. I digress... I was stuck between a bunch of flavors; do I want the Peanut Butter Nipple? *Ripple, but on the board, the R really is more like an N, which had me embarassing Dan by laughing pretty heartily. I have the maturity of a teenage boy, whatev.* The Negative Chip? The Margarita or Fresh Hibiscus Lemon Sorbets? The Cherry Ortiz? Ahhhhhhh... too many yummy choices! I finally settled on a cone of Fresh Banana Oreo (a May flavor) and Sweet Cream Oreo. With rainbow sprinkles, naturally. Oh my word, it was so delicious! As we sat at one of the tables outside, enjoying the perfect May evening, I think I was humming as I ate my ice cream cone. (Dan got the EXTREME Chocolate, and that rocked, too.) Wicked delish ice cream, and it's in an old converted firestation, which is pretty cool. Love it!
(5)Wendy G.
If it weren't for J.P. Licks I wouldn't have any good childhood memories to recreate with my own kids. The decor is eye catching and they often feature local art for sale. The ice cream is phenomenal, a little pricey, but you want quality right? The Oreo is my kids fave and the coconut fudge chip is mine. Also the Raspberry Lime Rickey is the best and I'm not a raspberry lover. They used to make a Peach ice cream with the fuzz and all, but I think they may have discontinued making it :-(
(4)Seth E.
I have lived in many places across this great country and tried many an ice-cream. This is my hands down favorite. It's fresh and super creamy, and the flavors are plentiful but not "out there." JP Licks should be a must-go places in Boston for anyone visiting.
(5)E. S.
A fun, playful atmosphere, typically very friendly workers, and, most importantly, delicious ice cream. The flavors are fantastic and they always have unique flavors of the months to change things up. No matter what flavor, it's always creamy and indulgent, just what you're looking for from ice cream. This place is a must in my mind and, if you're in the area, make sure to get a cow card because they actually do have great loyalty rewards.
(5)San W.
Swung by last Sunday with b to grab a couple of cones. You scream, I scream! Or not. b got the peach, which was good but pretty sweet compared to the cucumber, which I decided to sample. I was surprised by how much I liked the cucumber! It was light and refreshing with small bits of cucumber mixed in. Perfect for summer. So good! I'm glad I went with that instead of the entire banana split I was half-seriously contemplating. Yeahhh...that would NOT have been a good idea. At all. Maybe another time. And yay for feeling completely obscene walking down the street frantically licking my cone to prevent any drippage. Anyone? Anyone?
(4)Spencer T.
Folks, it doesn't get much better than this. If you've ever made your own ice cream, you know the difference than if you'd have bought it in the store. Any J.P. Licks is for real. I moved here a year ago and will surely miss these when I'm not on the East Coast any longer. Home made, glorious flavors, really fun, indie staff that truly care about indulging in happiness. :) Try the Chai, Cookie 'N Cake Batter, Diablo Chocolate, Coconut Almond....oh the list goes on. If the line is long, wait. You'll be happy.
(5)Kristen R.
It was 60-something degrees outside on a Friday night, and there was a line out the door. I had their cookie dough ice cream, which was very tasty. I also tried their extreme chocolate ice cream, which is one of their flavors of the month. If I'm ever in the area again, I'd try their frozen yogurts.
(4)Jessica O.
Forget about the hype - this place is DELICIOUS. The line move fast, there's plenty of seating, and the flavors are simply out of this world. You won't regret your visit here - there's pretty much something for everyone. Unless you're lactose intolerant then hey...there's coffee? Well worth the visit.
(4)Nguyen P.
Been going here for years for raspberry lime rickeys, ice cream sundaes and ice cream cakes. The froyo is pretty bomb.com as well, I usually go for Yogurt X or Mango X. Can't speak for the coffee, but I do love their Coffee Oreo ice cream! It gets busy, but it's worth the wait.
(5)Tania L.
First off... try and resist the temptation to take a pic with the cow... I dare you, DOUBLE DOG DARE YOU!! I could NEVER... ever .. EVER resist! Secondly, when a place has been able to remain open for so long (1981 is when it got founded) there has to be more than pretty faces and nice flavors. I, being Italian, ADORE gelato and am not a huge fan of overly sweet and ever so elaborate flavors. Every Single time i got me a JP Licks' ice cream or sorbet, i have been positively pleased and just spoiled. Unlike some other reviewers, i found the staff to be ever so courteous and happy to be part of the team. When you want to a enjoy a good ice cream, key ingredients are: patience, love and ... TIME. If you step in cranky, in a rush and already mad, you may find it difficult to enjoy your treat and be met with a smile ...
(5)Garkie Z.
First time here and I'm definitely not disappointed! We ordered a small scoop of the sweet cream as well as a small of the their mojito sorbet and both were very delicious. For the amount the price is kinda pricey- overall our total was just over $8. Definitely a nice place for a meet over coffee or ice cream. Lots of tables and very well air conditioned for a warm day! Staff is very efficient and nice. Would definitely recommend coming here if you're looking for a cold sweet to cool you down!
(4)Alicia S.
Delicious with a unique variety of ice cream to choose from. They also offer a wide variety of coffee.
(4)John A.
I love the flavored they have here, and they're always so nice in helping me order. :) A tad expensive, but worth it for the fun times I've had with friends.
(5)Erica T.
While everything here is delicious and great, with friendly service, I'm going to be focusing on the milkshakes. Because I'm a milkshake snob. And I'm also super happy, because they are a local chain I know I can get one of the best damn milkshakes (or frappes, for the dyed in the wool New Englanders) from ANY of their flavors. You heard me. Any. Flavor. Of. Ice Cream. Can. Be. A Milkshake. I prefer the extra thick frappe because it's thicker and has, in my opinion, a better mouth feel. I just like the thick milkshakes. But never fear, if you don't want a more traditional style New England style milkshake, the regular ones are really good. Now let's talk flavors. They make a lot of amazing flavors. My favorite, because I adore peanut butter in all of it's glory, is peanut butter cookies n cream. But then there's flavor of the month, and having had a horrible, no good, very bad day... A friend brought me a Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Chip. Turned my frown upside down! The coffee is good. Service is wonderful and friendly. Baked goods are delicious. But for me it's about the ice cream, and having that made into an extra thick frappe.
(5)Patrice P.
What can I say that you don't already know! I've been going to this place from the beginning from day one to be exact. This a a neighborhood staple and has become synonymous with JP culture such a variety of ever changing flavors while keeping tried and tested favorites like my coffee (ahem) "Oreo" ice cream aka coffee and cookies ice cream it's damn near perfection and don't be afraid to ask for a sample sometimes you get snooty staff which get on my nerves but who cares...ice cream!!!
(5)Sarah W.
Listen, if they have the chocolate hazelnut ice cream, GET A FRIGGING QUART OF IT. That stuff is so, so good! This place is the heart of JP -- you'll always run into someone you know here, and the ice cream is delish.
(5)Mary C.
I'm annoyed with this place. And here's why... I went here last night for a quick treat and when it was my time to order, I cheerfully asked one of the employees what a sorbet freeze was. It sounded delightful, but who knows! His response, with a blank stare and borderline attitude, "it's sorbet... and soda water." Hmmm, way to make it sound appetizing. I decided to order it anyway because I was afraid to ask any more questions (it seemed like a burden). By the time I received the drink, there was SO much more "soda water" in it than sorbet, I didn't really know what I had paid for at that point. (It's almost $6 for this drink so I definitely feel ripped off). I was essentially drinking sugar-flavored ice water. Normally, I would have gone back and asked for it to be re-made, but when the line is out the door, I just didn't have time to wait for a simple drink that should have been made correctly the first time. A few things would have made this experience better: a SMILE from the guy who took my order. In a bad mood? Fine, just fake it! You work in an ICE CREAM SHOP, one of the happiest places on earth! People go to you for a treat and to be happy, not to get scowled at. I'm not exaggerating either as this one guy wasn't the only one with an attitude. Not one employee looked happy to be there. That trip was not worth my $6 (especially when I can make the same thing at home for MUCH cheaper and tastes better) and I certainly won't be going back if all I'll get is an attitude. I'm taking my business to FOMU down the street. The people there seem happy...
(1)Luis N.
Can you say anything bad about this ice cream shop? We heard about J.P licks as soon as we got to Boston and I think we've been here (and other locations) perhaps 4-5 times. Every time a person comes to visit or if we go out...we hit up J.P licks afterward. It's a nice local, unique, ice cream shop that constantly changes its line up to keep you guessing. I have only ordered the ice cream, which have all been great. I get the almond chip one...kinda reminds me of an Almond Joy which is great. I have also got the vanilla coconut flavor which was great but slightly tame. A friend of ours got a cookie sandwich concoction they make which is like...two cookies with ice cream in the middle. She loved it. I recommend getting the kiddie sizes because it's definitely not a terribly small size. It's just enough to get what you need unless you really want to eat a lot of ice cream.
(5)Danielle R.
I'm a HUGE JP Licks fan and definitely think that it's some of the best ice cream in Boston. My favorite ice cream flavor is Cookies n' Cake Batter, but I also really enjoy the hard and soft yogurts. The Oatmeal and PB Chip hard yogurt flavors are delicious, and I really like the Amaretto and Oreo soft serve when they have them (flavors rotate weekly). The one thing that JP licks could improve upon is the cleanliness. Every time I go, I find the tables dirty -- which can be a bit off-putting for people who aren't regulars.
(4)Lizzie S.
Best ice cream in town! I hope they eventually update their POS systems to Square or something so that I can tip if I don't have cash!
(5)Christelle S.
The most amazing ice cream ever! I grew up getting JP Licks and having tried a lot of ice cream in a lot of different places, I can say that it is the best ever! The one in JP is really big with tables, chairs, as well as comfortable chairs around a fireplace. You can get things besides ice cream such as really good coffee and specialty drinks such as raspberry lime rickey (one of my absolute favorites!). They also have breakfast foods and at one point made homemade waffles! They often have seasonal flavors of ice cream and drinks (like hot apple code - yummmm). Line can get long late at night in the summer - but its so worth it!!
(5)Jess E.
I decided to get a little ice cream pie for my boyfriend for his birthday because that's always fun. They had a cute little oreo one. The best part was not just that they wrote happy birdday, but that if you eat THREE SLICES and then put it in the fridge, (instead of the freezer), you get a whole new pie again! call it "melting", or call it magic, but this was pretty cool when we woke up the next morning to discover what looked like a whole new ice cream pie that had just melted into itself! besides this, it's nice this place is open pretty late, you can have a nice lil' ice cream date or coffee date. woohoo!
(5)A.J. C.
Best Ice Cream in 5 towns. A summertime staple for JP residents.
(5)Chris L.
I love ice-cream. If there is something I love more than coffee, it's ice-cream. When I knew I was moving to Boston, I'll admit that I was very, very excited to know that I would be able to have JP Licks whenever I wanted. #fatkidlovescakeandicecream To my out-of-state knowledge, this was the original JP Licks, and it has kept the tradition alive with amazing, high-quality ice-cream in flavors that are unique and exciting. Before I get carried away, let's start with the decor and the location itself. This place is huge, and conveniently located right in the heart of Jamaica Plain. There are plenty of places to seat, a fireplace for cold days, and WiFi for those of us who choose to do our work and studies over ice-cream instead of coffee (or both, because they have BOTH!). Their ice-cream selection, as I said, is unique and exciting, but they still have some traditional favorites. If you see a seasonal flavor that strikes your fancy, GET IT! They are usually delicious and are only around for a limited time. Nothing screams urgency like knowing that Candy Cane ice-cream will not be available 365 days a year. If you're in Boston, you need to indulge in JP Licks. It's like getting a hot dog in New York City or a cheesesteak in Philly. Like, do it.
(5)C D.
Whenever I come to Boston I always have to get my dairy free coconut ice cream! They have different flavors
(5)Clare S.
I got the hot chocolate with soy milk. It was by far, the absolute best, most rich and delicious hot chocolate I've ever had in my life. I seriously CAN'T EVEN! I'm back in hot ass Texas now and I'm still thinking about that hot chocolate. It was a highlight of my trip. That's right, this hot chocolate was that amazing. Make sure you get it with soy milk!
(5)michael m.
Visited recently and have to say again no comparison to Richardsons or Kimberly farms, unfortunately those places are a distance outside of Boston. If you are forced to buy in the city then this place is fine, expect small overpriced portions and ice cream that's ok.
(3)Leah K.
YUM YUM JP Licks. It feels good to support a local ice cream shop, but JP Licks stands tall on it's own accord. Lately I've had a Lemon Poppyseed muffin there. It was AMAZING. Do they make it themselves? Is it ordered from somewhere? I don't know. But it was so great. Hmmm what else is good....oh yes the ice cream. Obviously. It is amazing, every flavor! Esp anything with girl scout cookies. Coffee service is hella slow in the mornings. Dock one star for that. It's awful.
(5)Amy T.
This review is really all about the dairy free chocolate fudge frozen treat. HOLY NON-COW is this "ice cream" amazing. It was creamy, rich, and a lot like cold fudge. I shared some with my friends and they couldn't believe how good it was too. We had a very long line on a Saturday night but I decided it was worth the wait. The staff was courteous and the other patrons were friendly. The non-dairy chocolate fudge "ice cream" is worth the wait.
(5)Dee A.
The cones were too sweet with too much sugar! The rum raisin ice cream taste fantastic though!!!
(4)I R.
As I handed my credit card to pay, I told the male cashier I have a loyalty card. He said he won't accept it because he just swiped my credit card. The loyalty card is supposed to be swiped first before the credit card, he said. Mind you, I was still in the counter, and the time gap between me handing out my credit card and loyalty card was just seconds but he adamantly refused. Asked if he can credit my points today to my loyalty card, he vigorously shook his head and yelled no. Wow, there goes your "great" customer service!!! So much about your "rewards" card!!! The last time I went there the cashier asked me first if I had the cow card. This impolite mustached young man didn't even bother to ask me if I had one. He was miffed, acted high and mighty, and rudely dismissed me. He did not even find ways or perhaps work around it to address the issue. For him, I was nothing but a nuisance. Is getting the loyalty point the issue here? No, of course not! For christsake, with or without loyalty points life goes on. It's just points, you know. What really infuriated me was how I was made to feel: belittled, underestimated, looked down. I don't belong to his race, therefore, serving me is beneath him. Needless to say, I will never visit this store again and I'll make sure everyone I know knows this.
(1)Cathy S.
JP Licks is a solid ice cream place, though I wouldn't consider it the best place ever or particularly special. They have a lot of flavors as well as other items on the menu, but it's pretty expensive for ice cream. I do like this location in JP though - it's really big on the inside and almost has a coffee shop feel where people can sit and hang out or do work. There's also outdoor seating in the summertime.
(4)Carrie B.
JP Licks ice cream is awesome no matter which location you choose. But this location is my favorite because it's large, which allows for ample seating (indoors and out) as well as a larger selection, including - wait for it - belgian waffles! I know, kind of random for an ice cream shop. Since this location opens early on weekends, you can get a belgian waffle with fruit and whipped cream (or even ice cream - I don't judge!) for breakfast. A full coffee and espresso selection kickstarts your day. Delicious all-around. The entire shop is kosher to boot.
(5)Jimmy G.
Come here pretty regularly and really enjoy the menu offerings and the customer service. More often than not, I order a small sundae with coconut almond chip ice cream with hot fudge (yum), marshmallow (yum), whip cream (yum), and walnuts (you get the hint :) ). They have a loyalty program aptly called the Cow Card that you can use to accumulate points with and earn some free goodies in the future. If you open one up, you're eligible for a free coffee, too :) Special kudos to Sarah who is always very friendly and warm. Best, Jimmy Www.jngdesignservices.com
(4)Chris P.
Great ice cream. Love the almond coconut chip flavor. You can try samples of the ice cream if you want. I tried a sample of the cucumber (weird flavor I know) and it was surprisingly really good. Will definitely come back. I just wish there was a JP Licks closer to me.
(4)Virginia T.
JP Licks is lip smackin' good! I come by just about every summer when I visit family in Boston and it's always a welcome dessert no matter what time of the day. Love the cappuccino crunch and coffee Oreo flavors. The ice cream is very fresh-tasting and laden with quality ingredients. For example, if you ordered a peanut-butter-something-or-other, you can bet that peanut butter would be swirled into every bite you eat. They also have a large variety of products that cater to all dietary preferences or restrictions. I've seen fat free, dairy free and even gluten free options here. So even if you're trying to be healthy, I'm more than sure you can still find something that won't break the calorie bank. On a recent visit, my 18 month old nephew gobbled down half a cup of the cappuccino ice cream by himself and tried to lick his cup clean...so there you have it, it's even baby approved. Need I say more?
(4)Rachel B.
How could anyone not love their ice cream?? The nutty - flavors are my favorites, but other flavors are also sweet to me on a harsh days. I love their bold latte, my daughter like the chocolate and frappe with coffee ice cream is just sinful in the hot summer. Plenty of seats inside and out, awesome local artist paintings, signature cow sculpture and the cozy fire place is lovely in the harsh winter. It is a must stop location in JP.
(5)Domenique B.
Some of the best ice cream shakes coffee amd belgian waffles in JP they dont only have ice cream which is a great thing you have options. I love there coffee oreo and the belgian waffles are delicious. I love how on your birthday you get a free coffee and scoop of ice cream. The staff are fast and nice.
(4)Juan M.
It's a great Ice Cream joint, the service is good but their choices can be sparse at time. You figured they'd have every basic flavor but at times they are too focused on crazy types of favors. Fast service.
(3)Max W.
Perfect ice cream and coffee place. Lots of tables and booths, a fireplace with soft comfy chairs, and all the flavors in the world. Seriously, they probably offer flavors that the thought cloud where flavors live didn't know existed. And they're all good. My favorites are the maple butter walnut and butter cashew, but it's all worth trying again and again. And the coffee is good, too, and because they're open from 6:00 am to midnight, you can almost always get your sugar and caffeine fix. I imagine you could even pull an all-nighter with one last trip at midnight and another one early in the morning. Prices are a little high for what it is, but ice cream is a treat, so who really cares?
(4)Megan C.
They have the most amazing ice cream! The cleanliness, however, is severely lacking. It was actually pretty disgusting. After waiting in line for 45 mins, the girl taking our orders was chomping (disgustingly) on gum. When she scooped our ice cream, she wasn't wearing gloves and had it all over her hands. She wiped her hands on her dirty apron and continued with the order. She also handled our money and did not wash her hands before handling food again. I will not return because this does not meet health codes and was frankly disgusting.
(3)Erin B.
The ice cream is not good here. After giving JP licks numerous chances to prove that their ice cream is in some way superior to other stores or brands and being disappointed every time, I was curious to understand what everyone else thought was so great about this place. I decided to do a little research, and what I found was that JP Licks is no healthier than the next brand, and the ice cream is still bland and super pricey. JP Licks boasts homemade ice cream, which they define as ice cream made with ingredients you can find in your home (do you have any Polysorbate 80 lying around in your kitchen?) and even goes into a little spiel on its website about how they buy ingredients at Whole Foods (note: not all their ingredients are from Whole Foods. Clever advertising). Here's the ingredients list to their strawberry ice cream (from their website): Cream, milk, sugar, nonfat milk, corn syrup, whey, mono & diglycerides, guar gum, polysorbate 80, carrageenan, strawberries, strawberry extract, cictric acid, guar gum, xanthan gum, sodium benzoate jplicks.com/JPL-IC.pdf Choosing the strawberry ice cream to post here is being merciful...just imagine the ingredients in something called Coffee and Doughnuts Ice Cream....yikes! I'm being a bit cheeky because it's annoying and disempowering for a consumer to dish out a bunch of money for ice cream that is supposed to be superior in something (flavor, nutrition, something!) and it turns out it isn't. I want to make it clear that I'm not knocking that they use processed ingredients, I'm knocking that they market themselves as this organic, natural ice cream when they're just as bad as any other shop or brand. If you're eating ice cream, you're treating yourself. Let's get over the all-natural organic BS and just enjoy a scoop or two, which you'll enjoy more at Emack and Bolio's or with a pint of Ben and Jerry's.
(1)Hillary M.
I'm really disappointed to give a bad review because I love the ice cream here. The flavors are amazing. The staff are so - so, and the bathrooms are sometimes super gross, but the real reason I'm giving 2 stars is that this location is overwhelming full of hipsters with laptops and empty coffee cups leaving new customers with no place to sit and enjoy their ice cream. So, if you're a grad student unwilling to pay for internet access and willing to deprive other people of their ice cream fix, this is the place for you! Write your term paper! Interview people! Read a novel by yourself in a BOOTH with your bag and jacket taking up the other seats! If you want to enjoy the delicious ice cream, head to a different location or go in the summer when it is warm enough to sit outside. Then you just have to deal with all the dogs (which, in my opinion, isn't a bad thing at all). I hope that JP Licks will start imposing a wireless time limit or something so they can get more turnover on their tables. I admit I'm bitter - who wants to schlep all the way to the ice cream store only to have to stand at the counter to eat it?!
(2)Brook W.
I'm surprised to find that the only good coffee on the East Coast seems to be in an ice cream shop. I'm happy to have found this place; great coffee, plenty of cozy seating, and staff members who were friendly. Highly recommend this place if you are looking for coffee that actually tastes like coffee.
(5)A. S.
Love their organic roasted in store coffee. You even get a free cup when you purchase a bag. I only tried mint cookies and cream ice cream and it did not disappoint. Creamy and delicious. Go to JP licks!
(5)Beth H.
I...love...JP Licks. I love it I love it I love it I LOOOOOOVE IT. When I first came to Boston I was a little skeptical...the ice cream seemed a little pricey. But two or three bites into my first small mint oreo cone did I come to realize that you couldn't set a price on TOTAL DELICIOUSNESS. By now (a few years later) I've been to many a JP Licks location -- Harvard sq, Coolidge Corner, and the previous location on Newbury St -- but the JP location is probably my favorite. It is the largest and has comfy chairs to sit and chat/study/drink coffee in. The employees are always helpful, willing to let you have (multiple) samples, and seem to enjoy their job. Some of my favorite flavors over the years: --mint oreo --oreo cake batter (a special. rich, but how could I not try it?) --lumpy primate (a special. banana ice cream with walnuts and chocolate chunks) --oatmeal cookie frozen yogurt (a special. SO good) The few times that I have gotten a shake, they weren't thick enough for my liking. But with all of the fantastic ice cream flavors...I have enough to occupy my mouth so that I don't lament the lack of great shakes.
(5)Clayton A.
Ok. First, I must disclose that I used to work here like ten years ago, scooping ice cream and serving up fro-yo samples as a sophomore in college. The coolest perk was getting to take home a quart every day (but who really needs that much ice cream?) and getting to make ridiculous treats for myself during my breaks. Back then, I could afford to eat like a pig. Now, my beer-belly forced me to consider getting frozen yogurt and then eventually opt for a small cup of the rum raisin. So sad. Well, it was sad until I tasted that ice cream. Craaaack. Coooocaine. Just like I remember it. There are so many other good flavors to choose from, so it was painful to pick just one, especially knowing it will be many years before I return again. When that time comes around though, I intend to exercise for weeks in advance so I can go jamón on a sundae or banana split and then wash it down with that pistachio shake...and then eat a pastry, because they're delicious here too.
(4)Wasim Q.
Boston does great ice cream, and JP Licks shares the top spot (along with Christina's) in a tough field of competition. If you are going to the JP Licks mother ship, go all out. Try the brownie sundae, with a blondie and house made hot fudge. Ask for plenty of samples and choose your favorite three to go in your sundae. I like the maple walnut. The special flavors rotate often, so it's worth coming back every now and then. For the health-conscious, they have pretty decent hard frozen yogurt.
(4)Leonardo D.
Awesome icecream! Whenever you feel like willing to get some supercreamy , rich and huge burst of icecream get to this place. Only con: some tastes are ??? But no one is perfect !
(4)Alena S.
It's very bad ice-cream, fruit frozen, brrr. 'll never visit this cafe. 'll never visit this cafe
(1)Meagan S.
I have been here twice, once in the summer and just yesterday in the winter! This would be a five star rating, but because of service and price, I am not giving it five stars. PROS = good quality ice cream, variety of flavors, atmosphere, location, samples, allergy friendly (I emailed ahead of time and was given ample information about the ingredients and whether the ice cream had soy, gluten or milk powders in it) CONS = service, price, size of scoops and quantity of toppings PROS -- JP licks has good quality ice cream. It's made with Hood Milk. They have high quality flavors and make their whipped cream and hot fudge sauce from scratch. Gluten-free friendly too! The atmosphere is super fun, and is pink and full of cows, which I love. The location is easy to access and the parking is street but you can usually find something. They offer samples but don't encourage it. I was there twice and they never asked if I wanted a sample. My brother and SIL live in Boston and knew the drill so they told me I could ask for flavor samples. AND I recommend to DEFINITELY sample. Sometimes a flavor does not taste exactly like what you'd expect. CONS -- Service. The scoopers aren't smiley or overly helpful, which is irksome. They are not overtly rude, but it's an ice cream shop for Pete's sake, it should be fun! Once I had to wait to pay (can you not see me standing there??), and almost walked away (which would have meant free ice cream) and no one was paying attention to me. The prices here are a bit much, so beware. The size of the scoops (you can get 2 scoops and 2 flavors in a small) is a bit small. Mine were not properly scooped into a "ball form" either. They also tend to skimp on the toppings a bit. My amount of hot fudge was a little lacking, and the guy who did my whipped cream should be taught how to do it more effectively for both amount and aesthetics. Maybe I'm just an ice cream snob but a paying customers ice cream should be made to look appetizing! Overall, I will go here again, because who else makes their ice cream from scratch with real ingredients or makes their own HOT FUDGE SAUCE with only three simple ingredients? Apparently only JP licks. If you're in Boston, I'd recommend, just be sure to sample the flavors you're eyeing, look over the prices before you committ and GET THE HOT FUDGE sauce.
(3)Alina T.
Visited tonight on 8/9/2014, had an issue with customer service, brought it to the supervisors attention and she was as bad as her worker. Very disappointing. My family has been going to this JP licks for years. Basic customer service training is needed for supervisors and staff.
(1)Jessica S.
Yeah, the staff is awesome. The place has a funky decor that I love. It's the original JP Licks (secret's out, folks: JP=Jamaica Plain). But, in the end, you want one thing from this place: damn good ice cream. And, well, you get it. There is such a huge variety of ice cream here - seasonal flavors that change weekly or sometimes every few days, dairy-free options, fro-yo, and confections like ice cream sandwiches and cakes. Tons of toppings for all of this, too. This location also has breakfast options, coffee, and baked goods. You can get the obvious stuff like milkshakes, floats, malts, and sundaes galore. Sometimes I feel like the place is a little dirty... and there is no dedicated parking lot... but I can't complain because everything else is so great!
(4)Laney W.
Had recently moved to JP and decided to check out what all the hype was about. The staff was super friendly about recommendations upon telling them I was a first timer. The sample I tried were delicious but I had to go with the banana chocolate chip flavor (can't remember the name)! Will def be back!
(5)Cathy O.
I don't know much about this place, but I do know that they had the most fabulous chocolate ice cream I've ever had -- Chocolate Brownie Batter, or something crazy like that. A single scoop provided a very GENEROUS amount of ice cream. What a lovely patio to sit on, too.
(4)Allison K.
lots of options and quick service. Enjoyed a kiddie sized salty caramel.
(3)Liz G.
JP Licks has gotten this reputation for having the best ice cream EVER. But really, it's just good, not amazing, ice cream. I think it's the pride of the JP residents pumping it up. Just saying. Also, it's overpriced. For me, nothing beats a small town ice cream shop. Now that's the good stuff! All that said, I give JP Licks credit for having a little something for everyone from its traditional ice cream to vegan choices.
(3)Voravut R.
This is JP Licks HQ in my mind. The great location in the heart of JP itself. I used to come here just for the good ice cream but it the place has evolved into the place I also use to escape when I need to get some work done. I do wish there were more plugs from computers & the wifi was more reliable but they are free so I cannot really complain. I enjoy that there is a separate section for just eating & one for working. The fireplace & kids friendly areas are a nice touch. So, besides the yummy frozen treats going to my thighs, I like that there is a place I can go & get down to business. They are also dog friendly which is a big plus. My little pup loves his Cow Paws & the homemade water.
(4)Rachel M.
I came here with my dad when he was staying at the VA hospital in JP. He always says "When I die, I'm gonna die eating ice cream!". And so, we got permission to skip down the street and get some, because he needs his ice cream even in the hospital. So he treated me to a lovely 2 scoops of delicious Peanut Butter Oreo ice cream. I forget what scoop he got, but he wasn't even talking, just scooping spoonfuls into his mouth and enjoying it. We left very satisfied. I've gone to the location in Davis Sq in Somerville, too. The employees there weren't at all too friendly, however, that doesn't take away from the deliciousness of the ice cream that is served :)
(5)Dina V.
I know, I know... I posted about a local homemade ice cream shop in RI but NOTHING beats JP Licks.. I mean it, NOTHING. I have tried countless flavors here and have yet been disappointed. It's all made on site. They even have doggie ice cream. How awesome is that??? My pup inhaled his yesterday. He couldn't stop eating it, how he didn't have brain freeze, I don't know. There are tons of seats to sit and enjoy your coffee, which btw the aroma of coffee when you walk in is like heaven. The staff is super friendly too! There are tons of different locations around Boston. If you happen to drive by one, I suggest stopping in for some ice cream. You will thank me.
(5)Kimberly V.
Amazing ice-cream!! Every flavor is delicious and fresh. Every time I am in the area I have to stop by. Highly recommend checking them out!!!
(5)Laura M.
JP Licks in JP, you will always be my favorite. Happy staff, customers, dogs...even happy vegans... all eating ice cream. (try the coconut ice cream...oh my woah... but stay away from the hemp- bleh). Oh and it's a coffeeshop too. The only one in the area open til midnight. Kiddie cup of anything with jimmies. It's big enough. And you can sample flavors if you're unsure.
(5)Sharleen L.
This is my FAVORITE ice cream shop of all time! I've been going here since I was a kid. It's one of Boston's best businesses. My favorite flavor of all time is the mint oreo and in the summer time, they bless us with a chocolate hazelnut!! (Tastes like nutella). I usually mix the two, and it's divine! The only complaint is that I wish they had chocolate hazelnut YEAR ROUND!
(4)Kelly M.
Best local ice cream around! Always fresh with the best toppings. I love this location as it is right in downtown JP. Dinner on Centre Street followed by a quick (or not so quick in the summer when the line is out the door!) trip to get ice cream is always the perfect evening.
(5)Laura S.
People kept telling me I had to go to JP Licks, and I finally listened. While this wasn't a life changing ice cream experience (if I had to choose, I'm going to pick Toscanini's every time), it *was* a delicious ice cream experience. Choosing my dessert was a bit overwhelming. I imagine that the regulars are used to the options and offerings, but for a first-time visitor it was not very intuitive. It was hard to figure out what the options were and what each would cost. It also wasn't clear to me whether it was OK to ask to sample the ice creams - there was quite a long line and they really seemed to be keeping it moving at quite a rapid pace. I felt a little frazzled by the end, but ultimately ended up with a sundae with yummy seasonal ice cream (I'm blanking on the exact flavor - something with pecans maybe? or salted peanuts? it was good) and hot fudge. It struck me as a little weird that whipped cream or a cherry count as sundae toppings. (Based on their online menu, it looks like the guy who told me what came on a sundae may have been misleading about how many options I was entitled to. Oh, well, it was a good sundae anyway.) This is definitely worth a trip, especially if you are an ice cream aficionado. It's always good to know your options!
(4)Whitney J.
JP Licks, why are you so good? I live so far away from you and it makes me so sad. Locally sourced, delicious and the store has enough seating? Win. I tried their maple walnut flavor and fell over it was so good. I've yet to try a flavor that wasn't tasty and the people there are really nice. GO, JP LICKS
(4)Ashley D.
I have to say out of all the JP Licks locations this is my favorite! I started going to JPL on Newbury (small) and Mission Hill as I went to Wentworth and lived in the area (average size, little seating, always busy during the workday lunch hour due to LMA staff.) Overall JPL in JP has great flavors (as do all locations), friendly staff, outdoor seating, and plenty of indoor seating. The location on the main street is a great spot due to the 39 bus, in the middle of town, parking in back lots and on street parking. I lived in the area, visited often, and have always been pleased with the service. Even with a long line the shop is fully staffed to get everyone served as soon as possible. During a humid summer day after work I stopped in for a cone, when walking outside and a few feet out the door the humidity caused my cone to melted all over my hand... and at that moment the sky opened up and it started pouring buckets. I went back to the shop and when I went to ask for a cup to help myself clean the black raspberry ice cream off my hand/arm the staff made me a new cone, in a cup! Now thats service.
(5)Nathan C.
Ice cream is great but this store is so big it's meant to me a meet up spot but the Internet here hardly ever works. I can never keep a connection. Better to go across the street to cafe Beirut
(3)Chas K.
My 1-star rating is about the JP Licks experience and price:value ratio. I really don't understand the popularity of this chain. What fool stands in line for a $6 10 oz. sundae, frappe or cone (Actually, the cone is $5.69 and the frappe is $6.39 if you add malt)? Evidently, there's no shortage of fools. The ice cream is premium, for sure, but it's no better than Ben & Jerry's which costs $3 and change for an entire pint. My son's Oreo cookie dough sundae was 50% cookies. JP Licks is even more expensive than Coldstone Creamery. The store was disgusting. The tables, floors and furniture were filthy. And Inspectional Services really ought to stop by and check out the gross Men's room. What I found hilarious in an ironic way was that many of people lining up for the overpriced ice cream and coffee would be better served using the cash for say, oh, buying shirts with sleeves and personal hygiene items. Ewww! Let me know what you think about this review by clicking a button below.
(1)D T.
JP Licks has tons of delicious flavors. The line can be long but it moves fast. In JP there is a public parking lot down the street behind Blanchards.
(5)Heidi S.
If you can get the oatmeal cookie soft serve oh my god do it. If they don't have it (soft serve changes weekly) they also have the flavor in their hard yogurt which is also amazing just not as creamy like the soft version. The sundaes are awesome if you feel like overdoing it because you need to really be hungry for them. It's a bit pricy but since I first visited colleges in boston I've been hooked.
(4)Hillary C.
Always delicious selection of ice cream and frozen yogurt. Sometimes the line can be a little hard to deal with but it is always worth the wait! They also carry dog ice cream which is a nice treat whole your pup patiently waits outside for you. The yogurt x is healthy and always available in a variety is flavors
(4)Juliana C.
IN the BEGINNING, there was JP Licks. It waited patiently for me to move to the neighborhood, garnering favor with locals in the meantime, until one day I wandered down the street and tried the ice cream. And it was good. ...Okay, it was freaking fantastic. Caramel apple, pumpkin custard, myer's rum raisin... yum, yum, and an emphatic YUM. The savory croissants never look less than droolworthy. I'd like to try the belgian waffles one day. Or the cookie ice cream sandwiches. Or the soft serve. This place offers a lot of tempting treats. As a coffee shop, JP Licks has a pretty solid selection of styles and flavors, and I feel that the prices are fair. As a place to chill.... eh. The store's a little drafty and this table isn't all that comfortable, but the wifi works and with an hour time limit during peak busy-ness, it's clear I'm encouraged to stay and hang. Which I dig. *Snap snap.*
(4)John S.
I'm a certified ice cream snob, so believe me when i say this place is no joke. My friends who live in the area recommended it highly, and I was not disappointed. They probably had 12-15 flavors and all sounded great. I settled on peanut butter Oreo flavor and was very impressed. It was loaded with cookie chunks and had the perfect creamy consistency. It was a little pricey (two single scoops and a hand-packed pint came to almost $15), but hey, ice cream is supposed to be an occasional treat, right? They also serve coffee, and have is lots of indoor and outdoor seating. I'll definitely be stopping one more time on my way out of town.
(5)Julia N.
I'll keep this really really short as I'm sure that this location has tons of reviews. I like JP Licks. It is expensive. It has options that make my lactose-intolerance jump for joy. Since I like JP Licks, however, I don't care if I get an upset stomach sometimes when I opt for the pistachio ice cream. It is an expensive place. The end.
(4)Jessica L.
Love the ice cream here, it's delish! Tons of fantastic ice cream flavors, as well as great selection of sorbets and other desserts. I would definitely say that the ice cream is their strength (obviously), and that those who order the soft serve might be a bit disappointed; the soft serve is fine, but not as outstanding as the hard ice cream.
(4)Noel K.
Had a hot chocolate and a cheese, pepper croissant sandwich. Both were pretty good. Came here to work and it has tables and couches and wifi. Very comfortable.
(4)Rod S.
The best ice cream I ever had and suck friendly service
(5)Chris M.
Now that they have dairy free ice cream, I literally have no complaints. They are open earlier than you wake up, and later than you can justify going out for coffee or ice cream. Back when I lived in a dump down on Centre St that didn't have working heat in the winter, I would bring my laptop and sip hot coffee at 10pm and use their free wifi and do schoolwork. I have had client meetings here, counseled heartbroken friends over copious amounts of dessert, stopped by during cute dates, the list goes on. You can tell why they're doing so well.
(5)Jim W.
Anywhere that will make me a frappe (New England for milkshake) with avocado ice cream and pineapple yogurt is alright with me! This place always has the most interesting special flavors, and I love mixing and matching them as they change each month. I've been to several of their locations, which always have long lines. However, the packed staff is typically able to burn through lines much faster than I expect.
(4)Melissa F.
I love JP Licks like a fat kid loves cake. Yes that's me. I am moving literally down the street from this location in a few days and could not be more excited, although my waist wouldn't agree. I always make it a point to try some of their flavors of the month. Currently I'm hooked on their peanut butter chip ice cream. Nom nom. But my go to flavors are coffee oreo, coconut almond chip, and their peanut butter soft serve. Unlike other ice cream shops, their coffee is actually good too. So if I don't get enough of a caffeine kick from my coffee oreo ice cream, I can get an iced coffee to accompany it. They are generous with their servings too. Definitely worth a few extra bucks
(5)Mon R.
Coffee shop? Ice cream shop. Coffee shop? Ice cream shop? So confused. I didn't know a place could exist with the two (although Dunkin Donuts & Baskin Robins stores do exist), and to be honest I had this place pegged as an ice cream shop. Regardless, this place is definitely worth checking out for both. They have a nice fire place too which is sweet, free wifi at all hours (yay!) and are open til midnight!
(3)Paul N.
It's JP licks! This the original, I believe. Or the only one I know that's actually In JP. The store features much more lounge space -comfy chairs, and room to spread out (at least in comparison to than the Mission Hill location). Their ice cream is delicious, and I can tell its properly made without cheap substitutes. Like everyone said, try the coffee Oreo. I think the prices are well justified for the quality. Skip their baked goods, I find them overpriced and not worth it.
(4)Jenn S.
I had been to the original JP Licks location a few years ago, but went back Sunday night with some friends who were visiting from out-of-town. They immediately knew the place we were talking about because of the big cow head outside. ;) I was immediately impressed by the LED sign letting you know the MBTA schedule. Um, can they get that AT MBTA stops please!?! The place was busy for a cold, rainy Sunday evening @ 8, but we had no wait. I opted for the Low-Fat Oatmeal Cookie (yes, yes, low-fat - but you couldn't even tell!!). My friend tried it and said "I don't like it - tastes TOO much like an Oatmeal Cookie." My response? "That's exactly why I love it!" Their flavors are always so full of flavor. While most are great, some of the more unique ones (Blackberry Manischevitz, Noodle Kugel) sometimes miss the mark. (I'd tried the Kugel one a few years back and, while it was good, it had actual noodles in it, which was a bit odd!). This location isn't much different from others, except it's much bigger. Do all the locations sell coffee? This one sells teeny espressos and other coffee items, but doesn't sell the Challah and other breads that the Brookline location does.
(4)Alee G.
I paid $3.31 for a kiddie sized ice cream (which is about 1/2 a scoop if that). It was good, but it wasn't THAT good. This place is waaayyyyy too pricey for me.
(3)Dmitri K.
Best Ice Cream in Town. Always a line which tells you something. Mix it up with a bevy of fixins. Brownie Brownie batter is addictive. They even sell Cakes.
(5)Lauren L.
Ugh. Sunday night: Brought my Little Sister for some ice cream. Assclown in Segway standing on front of us trying to balance himself in line for 10 minutes, then tries to fumble with his wallet while he stands on his stupid Segway. We get theice cream, but every____single____table has been monopolized by people parking themselves all night with papers, computers, earphones... NO PLACE for actual people eating ice cream to sit. So... we sat on the FLOOR. Ugh. Bathrooms: Filthy. Service: Rushed and indifferent. No thanks.
(1)Tanya Y.
C is for cookie, and cookie is for me! OREO COOKIES! Jamaica Plain is where JP Licks all started, so therefore I thought it would be appropriate to write about this particular location. The decor is exceptionally cute, the staff very nice and welcoming, and the atmosphere has a homey feel. The ice cream quality is exceptional, however, the best flavor? ANYTHING WITH OREO! There are massive chunks or oreo in it and hits the spot every time. My personnal fave is the Coffee Oreo. So good! Also, individual ice cream cake slices are available, which are delicious. JP licks also has great Frappes if you ever feel like taking yummyness in a convenient portable cup. My only downside is their restroom; it could be a little nicer! They offer free wifi and are open til midnight which are also great positives.
(4)Jessica S.
came in yesterday with a friend. caramel apple ice cream and pumpkin custard are good. good dark roast coffee. got a chocolate and vanilla cupcake. chocolate was bland with an overly sweet frosting, tossed it. vanilla was much better. both tasted like frosting out of a can so meh to that. overall i like this place and the setup is nice
(4)Skye G.
Love the Rum Raisin. Has so much rum though that the ice cream doesn't get real hard so I get it in a cup. Best place so far and I try Rum Raisin every time.
(5)John C.
I saw the sign "we roast our own coffee!" so if I figured if they're going to boast I might as well shoot them down. Lady in front of me in line: "Their coffee is great. I have high standards." I knew she was wrong, but went for it anyway. Review: Coffee tastes like Folgers, it's junk. Crapola. Flat. Bland. Cheap inputs. Probably roasted by an amateur. The espresso was horrendous and pulled wrong. They don't train their baristas well. I think the employee learned more from my two minutes of telling him how to fix his shots than from the company. This company is also under the impression that espresso has to be a dark roast, maybe they saw it on TV or something, or just looked at what Charbucks was passing off as espresso and went from there. It's unfortunate for customers. They also sell whole bean if you like to take crappy coffee and make it at home. It may have been roasted a month ago, just to add in to that crappy coffee theme.
(1)Ben D.
My favorite ice cream in the world. By far. This includes ice cream from Europe, Africa, and Asia. I can't give enough praise to J.P. Licks and its delicious ice cream; knowledgeable, friendly, and pleasant staff; and overall enjoyable atmosphere.
(5)Ilya E.
This is their flagship store, and like all flagship stores, it delivers a flagship experience. there is always a line, but it moves fast and the order takers are on the ball. The ice cream portions are big, affordable and taste amazing. Way better than the newbury street experience at other brands; come here and get the coconut almond crunch, black raspberry, and chocolate chip, with sprinkles. The store also has a huge sitting area and free wifi so you can chill out here all day long stuffing your face with ice cream. HUGE HUGE HUGE bonus points for being open until midnight, so you can take your date there if she works late.
(5)Megan C.
JP licks is a mixed bag. If you are going for tasty coffee you won't find it however the ice cream is quite good. Pros--Lots of seating though sometimes it can get crowded. The hot chocolate is rather tasty. Cons--The bathrooms are filthy and the woman's room often runs out of soap. I actually make sure to go the bathroom either at my house or somewhere else before I walk in there so I don't run the risk of being forced into the grossness. Also there are times that the music is way too loud. During the day its perfect but come in at night and you can barely hear yourself think.
(2)Felicity N.
Hands down best ice cream place in Boston, specifically the original location in JP. I have had JP licks at other locations other than the original and its a completely different experience. ITS SO GOOOOD!!
(5)Kristina K.
Chocolate brownie batter is amazing. Staff are hilarious with their recommendations. We were given a taste of this guys favorite combo that we had to close our eyes for and 'be open to an extraordinary adventure.' We went with a big group, moved tables and seats around and had a great time!
(5)Liz P.
I used to love this place. They had my favorite flavor ice cream, peanut butter chip which was a good substitute for the late lamented Ben & Jerry's Tuskeegee Chunk. I even have a Cow Card. Last time I was in JP I stopped in to treat myself only to find out that the flavor was discontinued. My small sundae was way overpriced and the so-called hot fudge was a chewy cold blob. And I don't believe peanut butter cookie dough is an adequate substitute. From now on I'll pass, and I live only a short walk from the West Roxbury location.
(1)Ethan P.
Problems I have with JP Licks 1. No parking. 2. Lines go out the door. 3. Dirty bathrooms. 4. The place is really small. 5. They run out of flavors to often. 6. Their competeion lies across the street. It's more affordable, less money than Licks, 7.It takes ten minutes to get ice cream. 8. They expect you to have a JP Licks card, so you can save, who cares, just gimme the ice cream! 9. Alot of time, the outdoor seating is filled.
(2)Kestrel D.
Let me preface this by saying that I am a Vermonter, and was therefore raised on Ben & Jerry's. I probably ate that stuff in the womb. So, JP Licks has some big shoes to fill. That said, it does a pretty good job, even if the best thing going for it for me personally is proximity. Great variety of flavors, from your basic to your strange (banana Oreo?). Also good alternative options (this is JP, everyone hearts alternative) like lactose/dairy free and low fat hard and soft yogurts. I've never tried their coffee, but their non-ice cream treats are tasty too. The line is always long, but it moves fast. Also, said line is a fantastic place for people-watching. Ice cream attracts all types. My two beefs are: too expensive, like most locally made and ergo trendy items in JP; and, it's dirty - both inside and out. I mean, I get that ice cream is sticky, but this does not mean it should simply be left as a varnish on tables and floors. Overall, if you are not broke, can handle minor grime, and don't have good old B & J handy, JP Licks is a fun neighborhood excursion.
(3)J F.
I hate you JP licks. Your delicious ice cream made me fat and I wheeze while walking. I'm never coming back, I'll lose this weight and be healthy again. I HAVE SELF CONTROL!!! Oreo cake batter you say? I'll start the diet tomorrow...
(4)Shane R.
was visiting sk in jamaica plains and we wanted dessert. we walked to jp licks and got a cafe au lait and orange sorbet. sorbet was ok - it had a little bit of that artificial-like edge to it that im not a fan of. thats the best way i can describe it.
(3)Daniel B.
Sorbets and seasonal froyo is the best in town. Great place to socialize and they support a lot of what goes on in JP.
(5)Jamie G.
I've always liked JP Licks... LOTS of different flavors that are are really good. This was my first visit to this location, the very first JP Licks. The location is nice and big and open, and very clean. Staff were friendly. I had a small oreo cake batter in a sugar cone.... which was of course, delicious, and not a bad price.
(5)Nick T.
Sweet place to go in Jamaica Plains. The ice cream here is great, and their service is a riot. I come here at least 2-3 times a week for coffee because of their great service and huge building. It's so tough to go out for coffee in Boston because you always feel like you're being rushed out for turnover. At JP Licks, you can take your time and have nice long chats. The real highlight here though is the ice cream. Their monthly specials range from the classic to the extreme. Last month, I had a half and half cup of Noodle Kugel and Cookie Dough. It was glorious. Finally, feel free to show up or stay late! JP licks is open 'till midnight, so you aren't pushed out right in the middle of your studying/reading/conversation. Check this place out - it's a Boston staple!
(5)Brian D.
The JP Licks in...uh, JP, is a fun little spot. It's bright and cheerful, does good coffee and nice pastries for brunch. It's always got interesting art on the wall, and it has a little message board in the back with constantly running alerts on when the next 39 bus will pass by (never even thought of this until I went in there, now I wonder why more places don't do it!). That having been said, the main complaint about this place is the same as all other JP Licks...their ice cream is bad. It's not terrible or disgusting, it's just bland. Flavorless and totally not worth the calories. Full disclosure: my favorite ice cream spot in the Boston area was the Herrell's in Harvard Square, and they went out of business after a JP Licks opened around the corner from them. So yes, I do have something of a grudge. But I used to go to the Coolidge Corner and Newbury Street JP Licks before any of that and I didn't like them either! Try the basic flavors...they just seem off. I love a Strawberry Frappe, but when I get one there it tastes slightly minty. What possible reason could you have for making Strawberry ice cream minty? I suspect that they're trying to seem more authentic and make it taste "organic." Same is true for the Coffee ice cream. It tastes like some super-fancy dark roast espresso. I don't want super-fancy, la-di-da, odd tasting. I want Coffee ice cream! Granted, I should salute them for always having some lactose free ice cream, and options in terms of yogurt, sugar free, etc. Look, if you want creative flavors go to Ben and Jerry's. If you want high-end fancy flavors go to Toscannini's. If you want high quality ice cream go to either of those places! If you want to support something local get Brighams, or White Mountain Creamery, or get something from the freezer across the street at City Feed. But JP Licks wants to be fancy ice cream, creative ice cream, and home-style local ice cream all in one shop and they end up failing on all counts. Go there for coffee, sure, but these guys started out as a local business that is now becoming a pushy chain with so-so ice cream. They aren't worth supporting. Two and a half stars (rounded down) for good coffee/location, but a fail in terms of primary, ice-cream based mission.
(2)Sarah A.
Excellent ice cream and a lot of really great outdoor seating here. You definitely have more room to relax and enjoy your ice cream here than at other locations. My only complaint was that the cashier kind of rushed me to pay when I was chatting with a friend who I ran into. Also, the cups for the tap water resemble something you'd put ketchup in, not water. Someone had written "I heart JP" on the wall in the bathroom. It brought a smile to my face. :) I am sure JP Licks in integral to this woman's JP love.
(4)Charmie S.
This might be my shortest review yet. Three words: Save your money.
(2)Eliza W.
jp lick my... long line and $4.50 for a tiny kiddie scoop of ice cream in loud, dirty parking garage feeling space...puleeeze
(1)Michelle B.
I know, I know... JP Licks does not need another good review. BUT OMG THE BANANA OREO ICE CREAM. So good. Every bite had delicious bites of oreo and was so banana-y, it was amazing. I also picked up a chipwitch for my husband who couldn't join us, and he was very appreciative. Friendly, fast service and reasonable prices for the quality.
(4)Beverly G.
Good, solid ice cream place. I've definitely had better ice cream in my day (read: Toscanini's), and I find it pricey considering the quality of the product hasn't blown me away.* Their coffee also consistently underwhelms me. Also, their wi-fi craps out not infrequently, but I guess I shouldn't complain too much, 'cause it's free. Their cakes definitely get five stars from me, though. For my husband's last birthday, I ordered a cookies and cream + cookie dough cake with chocolate ganache and Oreo dusting. I think it might've been the most delicious cake I've ever had. And they were ready with it several hours early, so they're pretty efficient. -- * The one exception to this is their El Diablo ice cream. It's chocolate ice cream with cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Seriously, you can't improve on that. I wish they served it year round.
(3)Symphony D.
Great ice cream and amazing seasonal favors. A wonderful fall day can be spent here.
(4)Justin Y.
I've only been around the area for less than a month but I've been to JP Licks five times! The ice cream is some of the best I've had. Good service and kind staff. I've had several of their flavors. I will give you my thoughts on the more unique flavors! Oreo Cake Batter: My favorite flavor of all time (for all ice cream, not just JP Licks). Nice chunks of Oreos, and extremely creamy. Yet it has this sticky texture of cake batter that is prevalent throughout the ice cream. Unlike cookie dough ice cream where you get it in chunks, this is all over. This texture, combined with the flavors, make this the best ice cream flavor available at JP Licks. Banana Oreo: You can tell that the bananas were fresh. And they definitely used LOTS of them. As usual with any JP Licks Oreo ice cream, there were chunks of Oreos throughout. Although I eat lots of banana myself, it was too strong on the bananas for ice cream (just a personal thing). I would recommend mixing with it with Cake Batter. El Diablo: Everyone needs to at least sample this flavor as it's one of those JP-Unique flavors. It has this decadent chocolate flavor at the beginning, but once when it goes to the back of your throat, you feel this nice extra kick from the cayenne peppers and cinnamon. And because I love chocolate and i love spicy food, the two flavors actually complement one another perfectly. Coffee Oreo: If you love coffee, you gotta love this flavor. The coffee flavor is very strong! But the sweetness balance the coffee out. And if you don't like the strong coffee, go half and half with the Sweet Cream flavor. Bailey's Cheesecake: Very nice. Although I will say that there Bailey's was stronger than I expected (although I do like it!). Nice graham cracker swirl throughout. I wish the cheesecake flavor stood out a bit more. Maybe even chunks of cheesecake if possible. But a nice addition to the flavors. Triple Berry Sorbet + Lime Raspberry Sorbet: There sorbets are clearly made from real fruit. If you don't want something too sweet, less heart-clogging, and something more thirst quenching, I would go with the sorbets. They taste like the actual fruit, and aren't as sweet as there other flavors. The Lime Raspberry sorbet is definitely more dominant in lime flavor though! Anyways, as I try more flavors, I will update this post. but JP Licks is definitely worth the visit!
(5)Hannah D.
What is not to love! When I was living in Jamaica Plain this was one of my favorite stops for Ice cream and coffee. Perfect place to stop in on summer afternoons to get an ice cream cone to enjoy on a walk around Jamaica Pond. There are so many fantastic flavors of ice cream, hard yogurt and soft serve. They also have special monthly flavors that will suit everyone's ice cream taste. The flavors range from your standard oreo, chocolate, etc to the more adventurous concoctions like carrot sorbet, cream stout, fresh mint, peanut butter oreo, etc. Favorites: White Coffee Ice cream, Oatmeal Cookie Hard Yogurt, YoTango Soft Serve. Tip: You can split a small with 2 flavors, this way you can try more flavors.
(5)Marc H.
Great ice cream, cool vibe, excellent people-watching, what more do you need? This isn't just an ice cream place; it's a social gathering spot, almost like a pub in Ireland or England. And the clientele is incredibly interesting at times--some people look like roadies for Country Joe and the Fish, while others look like they just locked up the art studio for the night, and still others seem to have wandered over from Newbury Street in the Back Bay. I would give this place 5 stars for the ice cream alone, but the atmosphere is just icing on the cake.
(5)Stephanie B.
dear maple buttah walnut, why do you taste so good? like, seriously. i cannot resist you, you temptress. my thighs yell, not again! but my heart yells, yes! yes! yes! with much love, probably inappropriately, steph
(4)R G.
Notable improvement from the staff at my last visit. Everyone seemed polite and cheerful. The guy with the red-ish beard is probably the most enthusiastic and friendly employee I've ever encountered there. High five for you! I aslo appreciated that they asked people who had been there a while to make room for new customers. Lots of people camp out with their computers and some are not very considerate (I'm talking to you, two laptop people who were taking up a four person table each), so it's nice that the staff is aware and cares enough to do something. Also, Pralines and Cream was always my favorite flavor growing up. You guys do it right.
(4)Sarah E.
I actually didn't realize that this was the first JP Licks when I first went to it (I also didn't know that JP stood for Jamaica Plain... I'm new to the area). I went driven by the need for free wifi and a slight desire for ice cream during the middle of summer. I don't know if I went on a bad day, but the wifi was a bit dodgy and went out on me after a couple minutes, but the ice cream was great. :) There are a ton of flavors, so you're bound to find some classic favorite or something new. When I went they had cucumber and peaches as flavors of the month--I didn't like either, but I'm a sucker for the cookie dough. They always seem to have a long line, but you can usually get a seat since so many people just go in to get ice cream and leave, and the place is huge. But it's usually bustling with people going in and out, so not quite the best place to sit and work. It probably calms down later at night though (it's surprisingly open till midnight).
(4)Jimmy M.
I've been coming here occasionally for over ten years, mostly for the coffee. What I like most is the atmosphere. It's a great room. Brick walls, stone pillars, 15 foot ceiling with exposed beams. They manage to strike an excellent balance with the seating, lots of tables that aren't crammed too close together, booths at the big plate glass windows where you'll find some of the best people watching in Boston. There's a little section in the back with big, low comfy chairs, this morning they're gather around the fireplace. There's one booth at the very back next to a cubicle sided with chalkboard so the youngsters can entertain themselves while parents are relaxing with their coffee. The only thing keeping JP Licks from having a five star atmosphere is the music. Whoever is creating the mix needs to understand that you can't play the same mix on a Saturday night ice cream crowd as you would on the Sunday morning coffee crowd. I'm here early on a Sunday morning, and I'm not sure, but I do believe I'm listening Justin Beiber. And it's too loud. Why are you trying to get me to get up and dance early on a Sunday morning? Did you notice that all the rock and pop radio stations are having their Blues or Acoustic shows on Sunday mornings? They are pros at this kind of thing, follow their lead and create an acoustic mix, or a jazz mix, or a blues mix, or even classical, ..... Oh great..... Kanye West just came on.... really? They take their coffee pretty serious, there are a lot of different roasts to choose from, and the bean selection changes. The coffee menu looks like an airport destination board. I usually just ask for dark roast, but that will sometimes result in the follow up question, 'which one, the Ethiopian or Costa-Rican"? At the cream & sugar table there are four ways to lighten your coffee; skim milk, whole milk, soy milk or half & half. My only complaint about the coffee is they charge too much. Starbucks is cheaper. That's pretty bad. The ice cream is always top notch, but if you're here on a hot summer evening, the ice cream line might be out the door, and you won't get a table. I've always found the staff to be very friendly and very quick. This is a very eclectic neighborhood, often called the most diverse in the city. There was an apparently homeless man sitting at the table closest the door while I was here. He had a drink of some kind in front of him that looked empty, He was rambling incoherently most of the time, as though his turrets was in overdrive. He got particularly loud just as a cop was walking in the door. It looked for a second as if the man had just yelled something derogatory at the cop. The cop just smiled and nodded, then walked right by him and ordered a coffee. The homeless guy quieted down, but continued ranting incoherently the whole time. When the cop got his coffee he leaned in close and whispered something to the kid at the counter, and the kid gave a big grin and said, "Oh, he's OK, he's a regular"...... the cop just nodded as if he was expecting as much. I liked that particular scene, the tolerance and compassion, but there's a time and place for such things. Be less considerate of the one guy who's been taking up an entire booth at the window for the past two hours, laptop and briefcase spread out, and be more compassionate for that family with the two toddlers who just ordered coffee and ice cream for everyone only to realize that nearly every table is taken up by people with lap tops who have been sitting there for way too long. Which reminds, me; I should leave now......
(3)April M.
I've eaten at the JP Licks in Brigham Circie, Newbury and the flagship location right here on Centre. As far as quality and pricing goes, all 3 are the same, as you'd expect. The JP location is the largest, with Brigham Circle coming in second and Newbury Street an expected third. Not much to say about an ice cream place, the ice cream is great, all home-made. I have ordered an ice cream cake here before too, it was *amazing*. I haven't been to any of these places in the middle of the summer on a hot day, so I can't attest to the wait time or atmosphere during those peak times. I have always been in and out and satisfied. Compared to other options for ice cream (Ben & Jerry's on Newbury, Coldstone Creamery in the Pru or in Fenway, Emack & Bolio's in Fenway and the freezer section at your local grocery store), this place is up there. Might as well check it out at least, there's a giant cow head poking out of the front, and that should be able to amuse the kiddies at the very least.
(5)Chuck K.
The key to a good JP Licks experience is being able to discern between the stuff they do well and the other things they do horribly. JP Licks has a cavernous space with a nice mix between music and background conversation and enough quiet to get stuff done. With free wi-fi, you can hang out for hours. As for food. It's an ice cream shop that has, tragically and inexplicably, decided to venture into areas like coffee and baked goods where they do a bad job. Both the coffee and baked things are not just average, they're BAD. The ice cream, by contrast, is heavenly. There are crazy flavors of the month, e.g., right now, it's sun-dried tomato, avocado, and, Christ help me, noodle kugel. But then there are old stand-bys like chocolate, oreo cake batter, and peanut butter. Both the crazy temporary flavors and the traditional concoctions are, in technical parlance, yummy-licious. Sorbet, frozen yogurt, soft-serve; if it's cold, JP Licks does it well. So this is your guide to a good trip to JP Licks. The rest is up to you. Vaya con Dios. Forewarned is forearmed. Etc. One last thing: JP Licks consistently has some of the best service you'll get at a casual dining establishment in Boston. Huzzah!
(4)Ben R.
Their ice cream is great and you have to try their flavors of the month. My favorite was Red Velvet Cake Batter. I'm dying for it to come back.
(5)Brian D.
THE place to see and be seen in JP. Well, if you are a coffee voyeur like I am. JP Licks in JP is my Saturday morning first stop for coffee, pastry and wi-fi. I dig their espresso and they really don't mind if you loaf about their store for a few hours. The parents letting their kids rove about unattended sort of drives me batty but a few evil glares usually clears the air soon enough. Of note, I am lactose intolerant and do not eat ice cream typically BUT these guys always have a handful of interesting lactose free ice creams on deck. And yes you can pee here as well. Just not in the ice cream.
(3)Michelle P.
I'm not a native of Boston, but my friend who is sent me here. I was HOOKED! And, I was traveling with a group of about 50 and got most of them hooked. I can't recommend a flavor because I never had one I didn't like. There was a chocolate with chili that was amazing. I think the pineapple was amazing. Cappuccino crunch and coconut almond were also terrific. Thank GOD I was there for a week. I would go every day if I lived in Boston.
(5)Ryan G.
I think the other reviews say it all! JP licks is an amazing ice cream store. It is one of the best ice cream shops i have ever been to. It's home made and is just a great place to hang out with friends. This location I will probably rarely go back but I will definitely be visiting other locations. The one down side is that the place is pricey but it is totally worth it LOL I had the chocolate brownie mix which was amazing! would highly recommend it! its just chocolate ice cream with brownies inside.
(5)Ashley F.
My friend says, "I'll buy ice cream if you drive me from JP to the North End." I responded, "It's ten at night, when do you think JP Licks closes?" "Midnight!", my roomie chimed in. And so it goes, we were suddenly transported to the busiest coffee shop and ice cream counter in all of JP! I was impressed, on a Tuesday, how many folks were there indulging, chatting, studying and people watching. The counter staff offered ample samples to me as I made up my mind on what to order. (Heck, my friend was treating, when would I spend $5.50 on an ice cream? I had better make a good choice.) I landed on coffee oreo in a waffle cone. Absolutely delicious. The coffee was not syrupy (like most places) and did not leave a strange after taste. The cone, priced over a dollar, was big, fresh, crunchy and worth every cent. Although it is not a place I want to get in the habit of going to I am so happy that I hit up the local haunt on that Tuesday in March. Can't wait for the patio to be open! Big big points to JP Licks for having a next bus ticker. That 39 route is highly desirable and makes ice cream enjoyment complete.
(4)Nate Y.
We dropped by at 11PM when the place was practically empty. Even at this hour, with just an hour before closing, the guy behind the counter was more than happy to serve us. We first tried some of the interesting offerings before making a choice like caramel apple (yum), pumpkin (yum), and coconut curry (surprisingly yum). We asked about the pad thai but decided not to give it a go, but I'm sure it would taste like pad thai. The ice cream is not too sweet so the taste of the flavor actually shines through instead. We also ordered two pieces of ice cream cake to go. I take away one star because the ice cream cake we ate the next evening was disappointing. It lacked any taste except for the chocolate crust. I'm not sure if it had to do with it sitting in the freezer? Anyways you can't go wrong with the ice cream served there.
(4)Abby M.
JP Licks has some damned tasty ice cream, in my opinion. I also like the combination suggestions with funny names. I even like the slightly off names they give to wanna-be ben and jerry's flavors (lumpy primate?). They have some great sorbet too-- I've recently tried the pomegranate, the grapefruit, and their raspberry lime ricky flavors- yum! But it's SO OVERPRICED! Boo! And then maybe half the time they give me hollow scoops. Like, they look like good scoops but if you packed it down the ice cream would fill maybe half the cup. When I've just shelled out $4 or more for that small cup, it had better be full! I'd love to see how JP Licks would stand up to some healthy competition in the neighborhood.
(3)Mike M.
I've been writing a lot of negative reviews so I thought I'd write something quick about how enjoyable my experience at this JP Licks was. Friendly staff and they let me taste a lot of different special flavors. Both the ginger and the girl with glasses were funny. That makes four stars five. I settled on a medium of half El Diablo, half Bailey's Chocolate Chip Cheesecake. I couldn't finish it all but it was very good. Very very good. Two flavors, two very's. El Diablo is actually pretty spicy. But I like it spicy. I'm not telling you what's in it so you can go try it.
(5)Zsaleh H.
JP Licks gets five stars from me based purely on the quality of the ice cream--some of the best I've ever had! Every flavor I've had there is fantastic, as is there frozen yogurt and their sorbet. I agree with the other reviewers--this place is pricey--but I'm always satisfied. The JP store has a great community feel, even if the service is sometimes a bit half-hearted. I won't even take away a star for the sign that says, "We can make you a cake of all sizes and flavors." Even though it bugs me every time I go.
(5)Brett W.
I miss you, boo. Please open a store in NYC! I cried when I thought Oreo Cake Batter was only going to be a monthly flavor. Then, it was extended for another month and I cried. I cried again when I thought it was ending. Then, it became a staple! And I cried tears of joy. TEARS. OF. JOY. There's little I love more than JP Licks. I will brave wind, rain, and snow for you. And yes, I'll even ride a Chinatown bus 4 hours. Just to love up on you.
(5)C R.
I love the ice cream here, especially El Diablo, but I had run out of reasons to come to JP licks when I decided to reduce my sugar intake. But then they got Yogurt X! So, so so so good. I used to know only two places to get tart frozen yogurt-- Harvard Square and the airport in Atlanta. Now I can find it in my own neighborhood and I'm hooked!
(4)Matt E.
4.5 stars...My biggest weakness is ice cream and this place is amazing. The place is gigantic and the ice cream is amazing, they make all their own ice cream and they've got a ton of flavors to choose from. Free Wifi, water, and a ton of seating make for a real relaxed environment. The only issue is that I don't live by here to make constant return visits.
(5)Eric F.
Lovely ice cream shop second only to Ici, as far as I've experienced. I've tried a number of their flavors including Wild Turkey (bourbon-infused ice cream), Rum Raisin, and a couple interesting twists on Chocolate. Their branches in JP, Back Bay, and Cambridge are all about the same, so no worries about any one being better/crappier than another.
(4)N V.
Try the Yogurt X. It's pretty awesome.
(5)Alex S.
The chocolate sorbet is pure magic in your mouth. Here's what you do: consider buying a party tub ($49), which will be the only item in your freezer for the several months it takes to get through it; realize that dreams don't always come true; buy a quart ($9.50) instead; run home as fast as you can (seriously, the stuff melts quickly); eat a ridiculous amount in the privacy of your own home; and take a nap in the late afternoon sun. Glory. As if anything else needs to be said. Alas, JP Licks also serves up some good, strong coffee drinks. And their lime rickeys rule! Warning: the large is unbelievably massive (like a liter), and you will be out of your mind from the quantity of grenadine you've just consumed by the time you finish it. And I mean that in a good way. A little expensive, but I consider desserts luxury items that I don't mind splurging on occasionally. And I generally dig the staff; I was a scooper at an italian ice shop for a while, and, respectively, feel some sort of popeye forearm solidarity with them.
(4)Maynard P.
Pretty Good Ice Cream! So the reason I gave them 4 stars is because I know people who work there and the ice cream is really good. But the price, the line, amount of people that go there suck! Kinda like a starbucks of ice cream because its a chain thats everywhere in beantown and they roast their own coffee. Its like all Ice cream chains ie (ben&jerrys, coldstone, or haggen-n-dazs) Good ice cream everything else is eh im fed up with this %&*@.
(4)Michelle R.
the only thing that would make this place better would be more non-dairy deliciousness (like the soy chocolate fudge year-round!). but seriously, this place is dank. wifi, comfy seats, coffee, ice-cream, yogurt, sorbet, hemp/nut/soy ice-creams.
(4)Lindsay L.
Yep. I'm fuctionally lactose intolerant and I tend to avoid cold, sweet things, so my disclaimer here is that I am writing a review about the coffee options. The baristas here are variable. Sometimes i get a great drink, and sometimes it's just OK. I've never had a downright terrible coffee drink here, though, which leads me to believe that the products are fine and that the baristas might just need more consistent training/monitoring. Note: the hot cocoa here (I get it with soy, and my manfriend gets it with regular milk) is smashing. There's a slight hint of coconut, which adds a delightful twist to an otherwise standard-issue beverage. If you're in a pinch for coffee and you're on Centre Street without a lot of time, JP licks is worth a stop. Otherwise, shuffle yourself on over to Ula's where they're serious about it.
(3)Raph O.
I like JP Links, it's one of my favorites place to go to... A great place to study or read a book... It's a little noisy at times but it won't bother you a lot.. They have free WIFI, which makes it great to do any work online.. Lots of tables, space and room. People mind their own business.. I just don't like, when they yell to say that we have to leave the tables if you were there for more than an hr. Of course, they say it when it's crowded but they have signs and I know how to read. Otherwise I would give this place 5 starts but it's still a great place to go with a lot to offer.
(4)Johnathan P.
JP Licks in Jamaica Plain gets 3 stars, they are in the middle of an identity crisis. On one hand we have a great Ice Cream shop that could turn any Ice Cream fan inside out with pleasure, on the other we have a coffee shop that loans its atmosphere to a cafeteria stylings of a High School mess hall. Don't get me wrong its is worth the visit but, beware of finding your place in line behind 13 people ordering Ice Cream when you only want a coffee. This place could benefit from the use of an express lane or a separate coffee counter. Amazing employees and service. But set up is flawed at best.
(3)Sara S.
This is quite possibly the BEST ice cream shop I have ever been to in my entire life. Actually, no, not possibly. Definitely. I really think JP Licks has stepped it up a notch recently with all their innovative and different flavors. Peanut Butter Oreo?! Pumpkin Cheesecake?! Coffee Oreo?! White Coffee?! Ahhhhhhh. Overwhelming! Can I have them all?! No. I resist. I always get the fat-free soft serve, but make sure to try at least one of the flavors whenever I go, so it's safe to say I've tried a ton of flavors. However, in terms of soft serve, I highly recommend any of the flavors, with my favorite being vanilla, pumpkin (keep it all year round) peanut butter, coffee, and oreo. The building of this particular JP Licks is what makes it special. It's huge! Free wireless, tons of plugs, comfortable seating. If I lived in JP, I'd be here all the time. And ten pounds heavier! Best ice cream store in Boston.
(5)Leah H.
NOT A BAD FLAVOR IN THE HOUSE!!! How can one pick a favorite ice cream flavor, it's like picking a favorite child! Okay, so that may be a slight over-exaggeration (emphasis on slight), BUT if I had to narrow it down to the top 5 picks it would go as follows: 1. Cappuccino Crunch 2. Oatmeal Cookie Hard Frozen Yogurt 3. FTO White Coffee 4. Maple Butter Walnut 5. Coconut Almond Chip Go with the small sundae, it's just the perfect size and the servers at the JP location are so generous. This one AMAZINGLY AWESOME guy gave me like 3 extra toppings :) Was the perfect end to a scorchingly sunny day!
(5)Sam M.
The coffee this morning was tasteless and the oatmeal sour.
(2)Lilly L.
I love ice cream at JP licks. They have the best chocolate ice cream. I'm also a latte lover and adore the extra large size Expresso they offer as it really kicks you into wake up mode. The lines are not fun but the ice cream is right up there with Richardson's in Middleton,Ma. It's worth a visit and they also have local artists art on display which is an added bonus.
(4)Opal L.
They've added a few more small tables at this branch recently. This was a great idea because a lot of people like to bring their laptops and hang out here for a long time. I went there today for the El Diablo ice cream (on my room mate's recommendation), which is chocolate ice cream with a touch of cayenne, which kicks in only after the ice cream reaches the back of your tongue, while it's going down your throat. I had an espresso with the ice cream. The thing about cayenne is that it makes your taste buds a little more sensitive than usual so the espresso was especially flavorful with the ice cream. This is as gourmet as it gets. I might even go back again tomorrow!
(5)Kayla A.
So my parents own an ice cream place in CT where they make homemade ice cream and I LOVE IT, I may be a tiny bit bias but it's great. When I moved up to Boston about a year and a half ago I was convinced that when I tried JP licks it would be terrible, no chain-y ice cream place can replace homemade goodness I have loved for years. While it hasn't replaced this spot in my heart it has become a great substitute. The first time I came I got chocolate chip because you have to stay consistent with your flavors when reviewing ice cream shops (in my opinion) and it was great! My all time favorite is a seasonal one: the peanut butter cookie dough! If it's on the menu when you're there I definitely recommend it! Some consistent choices are choc. brownie batter and oreo cake batter. Essentially this place is a bit of a dream as it's a combined coffee and ice cream joint and while I don't love their coffee it isn't bad, however I've only tried their iced coffee so that is all i can comment on.
(4)X B.
So here's the thing, fun atmosphere, decent staff, seems to have all the trappings of the perfect ice cream place. The ice cream is ok. that's it - just ok. I eat A LOT of ice cream. I'm sure a lot of people do, which is why I'm always so baffled at how people rant and rave and yelp over JP licks. I feel like it's the emperor's new clothes. What is the big deal? It's ok ice-cream. All of this didn't stop me from late night walks to the place during the summer though, you have to get ice-cream somewhere, and this is JP!
(4)Kirs P.
The last time I was at JP Licks I almost got ice cream all over myself in the shape of small, grubby child hands. How do children do that? I think the kid had more ice cream on his body than he possibly could have consumed. He must have consumed enough, however, to induce some sort of sugar-based maniacal scream-and-run-around-a-thon practically running into me while I was exiting with my cup of frozen margarita sorbet. Luckily I'm agile and was able to contort my body and miss the oncoming disaster. And I didn't even drop my scoop of icy goodness. I have to get back before the end of the month- they have a cucumber flavor that I must try. And a fresh peach. And something called El Diablo. Not sure what that's all about, but devil ice cream must be something I try. And soon.
(4)Greg J.
The original JP licks rocks. Great community hangout, nice atmosphere and Cool staff. The ice cream is phenomenal and they will cater to all your sweet tooth's needs. The only gripe that I have is that all their non ice cream product are not even close to same league as the ice cream. That's fine though because you go in for the ice cream/ free wi-fi/ and MIDNIGHT closing!
(5)Jennette H.
Ice Cream is all i go here for.....it's a little on the pricey side if you ask me, but i love it just the same. Love the flavors and i can't really say that i've ever had a bad experience when I went here. I've never tried the coffee here, but then again i'm not much of a coffee fan myself. All in all as long as the ice cream is good i will return :)
(4)Sean J.
This place is pretty much just good for ice cream/iced goods. I've gone here many times to be disappointed with the options and freshness to their baked goods, and to have bagged tea instead of fresh tea like many other cafes. I wouldn't really consider this place a cafe, but more of a giant baby screaming explosion for yuppies. The lines are crazy long in the summer, so you gotta plan your ice cream experience well. I tend not to go here if I have to, for a great muffin and tea, i'll sport on over to ULA if i want fresh baked goods.. but they will always get me up for some fro yo!
(3)Vanessa C.
OM NOM NOM! !! ! so its 11:45 pm I got pms that would make even joan crawford look like mary sunshine. I need chocolate. and dairy. IMMEDIATELY! thank heavens for JP Licks up the street from my house where I can get those late night emergency doses of pistachio and black raspberry with hot fudge in a small cup (ask them to put it in a drinking cup so its less messy!) also on weekends they make waffles! we usually get it with strawberries AND ice cream. and maple syrup. and anything else we can convince them to throw on there for free. minus one star for always having long lines (although they do their best to move them along) and b/c for some inexplicable reason I just like the one in davis better. idk idk....
(4)Carrie P.
Delicious ice cream in so many flavors! The wifi is great, and the staff is always friendly. My fav ice cream place in the Boston area.
(5)Ann F.
The best of the the best!!! JP Licks has become an institution in Boston. It is expensive and the quality of the coffee has slipped over the last ten years (though they still get lots of brownie points for roasting their own!), but the ice cream is to die for!! Whether you're going for a classic like coffee oreo (my favorite), sweet cream, cherry garciaparra (now called cherry ortiz) or white coffee, or something more inventive like Sam Adams, Cucumber, or El Diablo, you will fall in love with JP Licks. The sorbet is pretty rad too, and if you are genetically predisposed to licorice, the Sambuca ice cream will knock your socks off. No need to get more than a kiddie size in that one. In true JP fashion, there's always a mix of silver-haired, black-tshirt wearing MassArt professors, queer radical hipsters, aging hippies, stroller-pushing yuppies and lesbians, energetic, chalk-toting toddlers, and backpack-toting teenagers. Yes, they've become more corporate than all of us would like in the past ten years (what a shock when they starting taking CREDIT CARDS, and now they have gift cards???), but there is still much to love about JP Licks and its fabulous ice cream.
(5)Alice O.
Gasp! I love JP Licks. I am trying to talk myself out of going there as I type. First of all, their coffee! Yummy! I try to get here as often as I can for the most delicious coffee I have ever tasted. The ice cream is delicious. I have no idea what Dustin "I burn bras" Todd is talking about. I love the pistachio ice cream! Have you had the pistachio? Huh? Who orders frozen yogurt? What frozen yogurt doesn't taste like medicine? That is the question. Wait a month or so when it gets cool go for a long walk in the Arboretum or around the pond, and when your done head on over to JP Licks for a nice hot cup of the best coffee in the world .
(4)Adam C.
Got ice cweam cone. Got ice cweam cone! Weee! HEHEHE!!! Got ice cweam. Gwate gwate gwate!!! My wife and I went "foliaging", or whatever the fuck the spring equivalent of that is, in the Arboretum last week and walked ourselves up to JP licks to eat back the important calories we'd walked off. It was good. It was ice cream. What can I say? I think the last time I got an ice cream cone was over 3 years ago. It's got all the shit that a good ice cream place should have from what I can tell. One odd thing, if you plan to drink water I'd suggest getting the bottled water. I did, but then I filled it up on the way out with the tap they have. It was really milky looking. I realize it was just entrained air in the water and all, but really, I'm not drinking water I can't see through AT ALL. Other than that, ICE CWEAM CONE YAY! WEE WOOO!!
(4)Rich F.
This place is dangerous! Too many flavors! Too close to my house! Must resist! I love it here. Pros- - Tasty, tasty ice cream. -Waffle cones. -Ample seating -An actual free wifi source Cons- - All the little animals with big heads.... (children)
(4)Kerri O.
Very rich ice cream. Not my first choice, as its mad crowded, and kind of expensive. Actually, really expensive. I think as I wait in the insane line, "Is it worth it?" My answer is usually "No". And I skip off to get a Lime Rickey at Brigham's.
(4)Michelle M.
I spent 35 minutes in line tonight, at JP Licks. The line was out the door, there were 4 people working, but only two helping customers. The other two were busy putting up chairs and breaking down the coffee area. Meanwhile the store wasn't closing for an hour (it was 11pm). I asked one of the cleaners why they weren't helping customers and she said because they were short staffed all day. I have no idea what that means. It's bad business for workers to be closing down a store that is open, when you have customers wanting to give you money. And making them wait for a long time to give you money will definitely cause them to resent you.
(2)Maria V.
Wewt! The mothership! Yea, it's a tad pricey, but the flavors are amazing and worth a little splurge. Major major kudos on stocking both dairy-free and sugar-free ice cream (Nutrasweet Chocolate fro-yo).
(5)Frank B.
Five stars for ice cream,why not they do it better then most and do it consistently. The coconut chocolate almond can't be beat . Not only is the ice cream great but it's a fun spot to sit and talk and people watch,interesting and diverse clientele Take the time to sit outside on warm evening and watch the world go by .Always a line but worth the wait.
(5)Mike G.
peanut butter anything is good. and the soft serve & ice cream here is darn good. took me over a year in boston to taste this local goodness but am surely a fan.
(4)Calvin C.
Dear JP Licks, If you make the Oreo Cake Batter always available in all of your shops instead of on a special monthly basis, I will proclaim you as having the best ice cream in the universe and upgrade you to a bazillion stars. In the meantime, you only get four for disappointing me this month with lackluster flavors like El Diablo. Alright, fine. I have no idea what's in the El Diablo, but I'm sure it's not as good as the amalgamation of Oreo and Cake Batter. Also, the crazy ass old dude who was sitting in the corner pounding his fists and mumbling "I'm gonna fuck someone up" was just too sketchy. But hey, at least you didn't brainwash a shitload of people into donating money to pay your back taxes, right? Much Love, Oreo Cookie Monster PS: The dumbass who donated $1,000 to Toscanini's was cracked. However, I might be willing to cut the same deal for a lifetime supply of Oreo Cake Batter. Just a thought....
(4)Adam E.
Oreo ice cream. Yawn, right? Wrong! This isn't your typical cookies 'n cream supermarket crap, this is the best ice cream in the Woooorld. It's the Celine Dion of ice creams. Only American and you don't want to stab it a bunch of times with the sharpest knife you can find. You want to take a very large spoon to it instead. I'll even spring for the pricey pint and bring it home as a sweet treat for my lady friend, it makes her (and me) that happy. The coffee is pretty good too, depending on the roast they're serving up. I love the holiday blend, which is sadly seasonal. There are so many holidays, why can't we have that blend all the time? Purim is a big holiday, why don't they serve it up throughout March? The other roasts are decent though, you can order them with confidence. The atmosphere is great, despite the less than comfortable pizza parlor type booths. The fireplace is key in the winter, but good luck getting one of those comfy dad chairs in front of the flames. The free wi-fi would be the best part of JP Licks if they didn't excel in so many other, more important areas.
(5)Guilio Ñ.
Yum, yum, yum...
(4)Tim B.
Whenever I start thinking that I might want to have kids, I always visit JP Licks for a nice sobering smack in the face. I know, I know, it's ice cream and sprinkles so of course there are going to be children there. But how many Hummer-sized strollers does a guy have to leap over to get a frappe?? Notwithstanding the above, the ice cream is good and I really enjoy seeing all the different flavors they come up with (even though I get the same thing every time). The coffee tends to taste a tad burnt sometimes, but I think the dark roast is pretty good. What I love most is that Licks is just a great neighborhood place to hang out and run into friendly people.
(4)Kate T.
My beau told me JP Licks was great, and I'd have to agree. I soooo wanted to try the spicy pepper and cinnamon chocolate ice cream, but I didn't want to seem like a glutton trying everything. :-/ I ended up getting Chai ice cream, which was to DIE for. YUM! The boy got Brownie Cheesecake, which was also mighty tasty. JP licks is super expensive though! Am I crazy, or is 1 small and 1 medium in a cup, totally $10 a lot?? I think so! The atmosphere is great though. There's lots of seating, lots of people on their laptops and so forth. I could definitely see myself cozying up for a cuppa joe or a cone next time I am in the area... despite somewhat high prices.
(4)Al N.
I am a JP Licks zealot. I mean it when I say I have not had better ice cream in this world the only thing better is at Via Della Stinky in Florence, but technically, that's gelato. The staple flavors, like cakebatter, coconut almond chip, cappuccino crunch, and rum raisin, are all close to over-the-top in terms of flavor. You can tell that no ingredient is skimped on, and no ice cream is allowed to get old. I can't comment on the toppings because I never get any. The ice cream stands on its own merits. The coffee is very good (roasted by JP Licks), the cakes are excellent. Service is always friendly and surprisingly fast. There are a lot of tables and even some lounge chairs around a fireplace. My one beef started when this location offered free WiFi. Now the tables get taken up for hours at a time by MacBook-toting blobs. First and foremost, an ice cream parlor is a place for children;I will defend that statement against nukular weapons attacks if I have to. When families can't get a seat in an ice cream place because some BU student who spent tree fiddy is updating his Facebook page for three hours, there is something wrong in the universe. Ditch the wifi and regain that star.
(4)John F.
It's JP Licks. They're pretty consistent, in my experiences, across all of their locations. The ice cream and frappes are good; not the very best ever, but certainly quality if you're hankering for some cold dessert. The coffee, also, was good. The one thing this location had going for it above others was that, when I went there, they were playing "Milo Goes to College" by Descendents. That was pretty awesome. I'll bump up the rating for the excellent musical taste of the staff.
(4)Lila S.
OMG i'M The 100th person to review JP licks! Niiice! Well they have the best location with the worst parking, but that aside I can't say too many good things about JP Licks. The staff is always super friendly and down to earth. They have since day on made my Lattes and cakes made to order perfectly and consistantly good! Even when there is a line that goes out the door and wraps around the building, the service is super fast. I return to JP Licks often because they have crazy new flavors that are based on season or occasion and the combinations I feel are very inventive... like I think they had dark beer mixed in with a Moolatta for Octoberfest 08 ... delicious!! Stop by if you can find a place to park!
(4)Jordan A.
My boyfriend and I went here for ice cream and coffee when visiting Boston last weekend. It was DELICIOUS. We shared a medium cup with 1 scoop mint oreo and 1 scoop cookie dough ice creams. The mint oreo was so refreshing. I think it's some of the best ice cream I have had in a while. The medium was more than enough for us to share, but we finished it anyway because it was so yummy.
(5)Sean B.
More lactose free iced cream please! Most of everything Ive had has been delicious. the coffee leaves something to be desired however.
(4)Zoe S.
Come on. It's the original. What must I say?
(5)Rob H.
Four Words. Yummy. In. My. Tummy.
(4)Joel G.
This is the most overrated ice cream joint ever. Is it bad, no. But you think the way people talk about this place that they are the next Ben and Jerry. They are not. Their Ice Cream is average at best, WAY OVERPRICED, and you have to wait at least a 1/2 hour to get some. I live 500 yards away and I go to Tedeschi when I have an ice cream craving.
(2)Jeffrey H.
Employee: "May I help you?" Me: "Yes. I'd like a small Pumpkin in one of those festive Autumn waffle cones." Employee: "........" Apparently he doesn't appreciate a festive Autumn ice cream delight as much as I do. Thanks to my 23 years of Fat Kid professional experience (check my resume), I feel I am qualified to recommend any restaurant, candy shoppe, ice cream parlor, etc to the fine people of Boston. Get the Oreo cake batter. Or now that it's fall, why not spice it up with a lil' Pumpkin action? Get the waffle cones, dipped & rolled. Anything else is just blasphemous. I lick this place. I lick it hard.
(5)Marcus C.
YES YES YES! The coffee oreo ice cream is the BEST! The guy behind the counter even humored me when I asked what the "peanut butter nipple" flavor was. Of course, I meant "ripple."
(5)Shaun G.
I think everything off of the menu is great here, I like the Oreo myself. The service is okay, not great and the environment is good. Perfect place to meet, or have an ice cream with friends. I DO know the owner, but that was after the fact that I already liked the great ice cream here. I am kind of restricted in a lot of reviews I think because I happen to know the owner :( That does not mean I'm biased!!!
(4)JP C.
Ugh. This place has a line out the door every day, and their ice cream isn't even that good. It's a little watery, and less flavorful that I would expect from a place that seems to think they're JP's answer to Ben & Jerry's. Also, their coffee is nasty and their breakfast items (bagels, croissants, etc) are nothing special. I could get the same items in the frozen section of my grocery store, and not have to fight the crowd.
(2)Jenna C.
Oh. My. God. Jeffrey, look at that ice cream. It's like SO big. There are so many reasons why I love JP Lick: Oreo Cake Batter Regular Cake Batter Coffee Oreo Cookie Dough Chocolate and Coconut dipped waffle cones Speedy service... The list goes on and on. However they disappoint me with their frappes :( There's absolutely no difference between a normal and extra thick frappe... except for the price. And last time I checked a black and white had CHOCOLATE IN IT!
(4)Cristin M.
For Bostonians who need their ice cream fix even in the winter, the JP branch is the place to hit. It may be the only establishment where you can curl up next to an actual roaring fire with a cup of peanut butter oreo ice cream (choc. jimmies on top) at 11pm on a Thursday. Fire + ice cream = fantastic sensory experience. Sort of the urban, clothed version of steaming in a sauna and then jumping into the ocean or a snowbank. Sigh. If only it were possible to do both. During the holidays, they featured Wild Turkey ice cream. Fluffy, boozy deliciousness that went perfectly with ginger cake and other seasonal desserts. Yet another Boston spot that's even better in the winter.
(4)Amanda L.
When I first moved here, I had no idea that JP Licks originated in JP, and that JP stood for Jamaica Plain....me smart. The original is definitely the best, but all the other locations are just as awesome. I love walking in a seeing the huge cow. My favorite thing at JP Licks is the oatmeal cookie milkshake. Holy crap just thinking about it makes me want one. The low fat stuff tastes just as good. You really can't go wrong here no matter what.
(5)Stephanie T.
this may be the original jp licks... but it certainly isn't my favorite summer time locale for ice cream. unless you enjoy yours wedged between megaquadrhundredbillion screaming / crying babies and served to you by less than pleasant ice cream scoopers - though really it's hard to blame them considering there is a NEAR CONSTANT line out the door at this joint. the fireplace is nice, and there is a lot of seating (indoor and outdoor) - but like, good luck finding a spot anyway. if i want jp licks (which i never do, it's really just not my favorite ice cream.. so, when my friends want jp licks..) i drive or take the 39 an extra few minutes over to brigham circle - plenty of parking, plenty of seats - totally worth the extra couple minutes commute to enjoy my ice cream in PEACE.
(3)Ligaya C.
It's a JP institution. Whenever anyone visits the neighborhood, it's a requirement to hit up JP Licks for a scoop of ice cream. It's a family affair which I really enjoy. You can hang out with the kiddies, pop-up your laptop for WiFi access, or meet up with a gal pal over coffee and the sweet indulgences that JP Licks has to offer. I have tried several ice-cream combinations and come to the conclusion that anything with "coffee oreo" taste like sweet coffee heaven. I've tried to deviate to mix n' match other flavors but I can't contain myself, the coffee oreo is something I can't resist. I just recently ordered one scoop of the coffee oreo and one scoop of their flavor of the day: "happy Lumpy primate" (banana ice cream w/walnuts) and think I found the ultimate combo. The mix of coffee oreo with the lumpy primate gives in to your caffeine fix, while refreshing your taste buds of the sweet banana ice cream.... I know, ice-cream is high in calories and they do offer low-calorie sorbets, soft-serve, etc. But JP Licks is known for their ice cream concoctions which are worth every calorie you consume. Just take a stroll around the Jamaica Pond (approx. over a mile) a few times and that should help you feel less guilty.
(5)Celeste M.
Like others have said, lately the line has been out the door. I don't think many people think beyond the "We want ice cream -- JP Licks is around the corner" mindset. The ice cream is good and we go for coffee sometimes in the morning. I have not yet tried the waffles on the weekends. It's cozy and cute, but I think that I'm more likely to frequent JP Licks when it's not the summer and there aren't a million people in line. If there's a line; I will skip it and get some another time.
(4)J. T.
Yummm! Oreo is my favorite flavor of ice cream here. I always try to make it to JP's when I'm in the area.
(4)Karman L.
Who doesn't like ice-cream? I got the maple butter walut ice-cream...I was eating it half-way by the time I got to the cash register!!! Yum!
(4)Jonathan B.
Well, I for one like the coffee here, which is roasted on site, although it's not quite as good as Blue Frog's around the corner. Although you can come in on a Saturday morning and find a place to sit and linger over your coffee and muffin, it's lacking something to make it the neighborhood hangout that it should be. Waffles on weekends are a nice touch and an inexpensive choice for a tasty breakfast. Of course the ice cream is the main attraction here and it's top of the line stuff. I love the frappes, and even the low fat stuff is good. Expect LONG lines on weekend afternoons or summer evenings. A separate line for people just wanting coffee at those times would be GREATLY APPRECIATED!
(4)Diana L.
I want to live here. I want to put a little sleep sack under the cow statue and just snuggle up and live here. This way, I can try every ice cream and every cake and every yogurt that is produced here without missing a single flavor and growing enormously fat but still being happy and not having a care in the world because I would have a mouthful of J.P. Licks ice cream in my mouth at all times. After a satisfying dinner over at Ten Tables, we decided to stop by J.P Licks to see what all the fuss was about. Mind you, we are from San Francisco. Home to Mitchell's ice cream and Bi-Rite Creamery. J.P. Licks was just as good as the stuff we get at home, except they had WALNUT ICE CREAM. I hate walnuts. But I love WALNUT ICE CREAM. I am capitalizing WALNUT ICE CREAM, because you are supposed to say it really loudly with your eyes open up really wide and your mouth open and drooling. It was so good.
(5)Jennie P.
A Boston classic. Boston has one of the highest concentrations of local, homemade ice cream places in the world, and therefore, as a resident, I see no reason to purchase ice cream from any national or regional chain. Many of Boston's ice cream makers are gourmet/experimental leaning product-wise, though most of them make superior traditional flavors as well. JP Licks has expanded to include many locations locally, yet continues to make great original ice creams, sorbets and sauces. Really, really good. Not to mention, proving they are at heart a home town company, they give out free cones on Red Sox opening day. Enough said. Flavor: Coffee Oreo Herrell's, Toscanini's and Christina's are equally good (I give each one five stars), but each is unique, therefore you should visit them all!
(5)Josh S.
I have to admit that I like this place a lot! The ice cream is wonderful, often with very imaginative combinations. Even when the line is out the door, it moves very quickly with the very efficient staff. The only reason that I do not give it 5 stars is that the tables do not seem to get wiped down enough and because it is somewhat costly. I like to go with a friend and share a sundae to help make it a little more affordable.
(4)Kristina M.
As much as I like this this place (good coffee and ice-cream - they even have some non-dairy options) I do think it's a little overpriced. But I just love the cow-motif and the fact that you can sit outside. What's good to know: You get one free coffee with every pound of coffee-beans you buy. Just cool!
(4)Dan O.
What can I say great - quality ice cream and a big variety of flavors including unique "flavors of month". I had the cucumber flavored ice cream and loved it! Staff is usually friendly and they now offer breakfast including coffee and pre-made breakfast items. Free wifi too. Who knew? Stop by. They have cool decor as well.
(5)Aluminum Chefs, C and T.
First, let's get the negatives out of the way - it's a little pricey, and the staff aren't always the most attentive. Also, don't bother on free scoop day, the line is down the block. Okay! Good stuff! I might be off my rocker, but I swear this ice cream tastes fresher than most. Probably just a mind trick since I know this ice cream is made in the building, but I still enjoy the thought. Their sundaes are massive and awesome. We've never known a JP Licks employee to be stingy on the toppings. Aluminum Chef T is particularly a fan of the strawberry topping. Aluminum Chef C loves the fact that there are new flavors each month, and almost always, there is a peanut butter-related one. Peanut butter chocolate chip cookie dough ranks at the top of the list. We're not coffee fans in general, but we can vouch for the quality of the ice cream, brownies, and huge lime rickeys. Also, wonderful location for a nice walk on a summer evening. One more thing - if you bring a small child with you, it WILL be entranced by the giant fiberglass cow. That thing has magical powers.
(4)Michael B.
I'm not sure if the manager has changed recently at this location, but they have really gotten a lot less friendly than they used to be. I used to like to come here for the internet and an ice cream, but thats nearly impossible now. If you've been sitting at a table for more than an hour, they disconnect the internet to clear out all the people using their computers. It's pretty evil. Either have wifi, or don't. But don't lure people in with the promise of being able to get some work done, get them to make a purchase, and then toss them out the door. I'm sure it's harder to make a profit at this place during the winter, but that doesn't mean you have to be a dick. Either ditch the free wifi, or let people use it. I work in a cafe, and we have never pulled any of this crap. You've lost a customer.
(1)Aretha B.
I like this JP licks because of their plentiful indoor and outdoor seating options. Good people watching. On any given summer night, it's like moths to a flame. Totally a buzz. I would go with the frappes over anything else. Hot fudge is pretty good - not too sweet.
(4)Nicole P.
Even just the aroma of JP Licks makes me smile! I know that most ice cream places get good ratings because ice cream is just yummy pretty much no matter what but I do think JP Licks is a bit better then some places. For one the ice cream isn't too sweet like Cold Stone. The selection of flavors is also great with innovative flavors like cucumber- surprisingly good! The kiddie size is plenty for me and pretty darn cheap too. This location is big and has plenty of seating, indoor and outdoor. The kids who work there are friendly and graciously allow me to taste several flavors before I settle on my usual mint choco chip. Yay ice cream!
(4)Matt L.
This is to me, just your ordinary neighborhood ice cream place with tons of flavors, coffee and baked goods and mix ins. It is some creative flavors at times, but thats about it. It is not a blow you away ice cream place. But since I am not a real ice cream lover I guess it is okay. The staff at these places are sometimes a little too relaxed for their own good..meaning in outer space!
(3)Jean J.
We go here a lot. A lot. The ice cream is great. There's a huge selection of flavors, and you can't really beat that! They have a limited selection of baked goods. They roast their own coffee. There's free wifi. There's a fireplace (great in the winter). They are dog friendly in that dogs are welcome outside, and there is a dog watering area. It's usually empty, but if you let someone know, they will refill it. They also offer Cow Paws, a treat for dogs made up of peanut butter sorbet and cookies. My puppy likes the cookies, is so-so about the sorbet. The downside? Their milkshakes suck. Really, their extra-thick milkshake is runny and gross. They're over-priced. They roast their own coffee, and I am not really a fan. There are a million children there. (OK, it's ice cream. Kids like ice cream. I just hate children.)
(4)Gail C.
Delicious ice cream. Delicious coffee/tea/smoothies/shakes. Friendly staff. Open from the ass crack of dawn 'til late night. 'Nuff said!
(5)Rachel J.
Two words: Watermelon sorbet. In the summer it is amazing and refreshing. And lots of other good, rotating flavors too
(5)Christina L.
4 stars because the service was awesome (but not 5 because there are some other places in LA that are in my opinion the best ice cream). my friend recently moved here and i was visiting her so we weren't too familiar with the ice cream. the guy waiting on us was super friendly about letting us know about the brownie sundae (my friend had gotten the brownie before but was asking if they also had a sundae). he was really patient about explaining how we can order any toppings for free and with as many flavors as we wanted and waited on us as we were very indecisively picking flavors. very creamy ice cream with excellent brownie. he also let us talk to him about moving to boston and he explained about the history of jp licks. amazing. oh yeah, and the ice cream rocks. we ordered the white coffee and cherry orteza (i think) with our brownie. ... not sure tho if i was the biggest fan of the raspberries because i forgot it was winter and there aren't really fresh raspberries, so it was in a sugary sauce. regardless, great place to go.
(4)