Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream
576 Lancaster Ave, Berwyn, PA, 19312
Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Berwyn for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Berwyn for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Berwyn for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
576 Lancaster Ave
Berwyn, PA, 19312 - Phone (610) 640-1606
- Website https://www.handelsicecream.com
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :11:00 am - 9:00pm
Specialities
- Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Parking : Private Lot
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Wi-Fi : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Craig D.
Homemade Ice Cream & LOT'S of Flavors!
(4)Eric M.
This is some of the best ice cream ever. It's a shame we don't live closer but if we did I would be eating it every night. Be sure to try the Graham Central Station.
(5)Rebecca R.
We drive twenty minutes out of our way to go to Handels. Even when the line is long, the employees work as efficiently as possible to get it moving. Our personal favorites are: cake batter, black raspberry, and chocoholic chunk. Delicious!
(5)Steve S.
Being a Delco snob like I am... OK, wait a minute. Should the words "Delco" and "snob" ever be in the same sentence? No, what I'm trying to say is that when it comes to eating on the Main Line, I go hot and cold. There are certainly good places to eat on the Main Line, but in my personal experience, I've also found some of the most overrated eating places on the Main Line too. Call it an overall love-hate realtionship. Considering I work near the Main Line, I have had my share of Main Line experiences. When I judge a place on the Main Line, I always think of it in terms of "Would I drive 30-45 minutes from my Delco home just to eat here?" My fellow Yelpers, when it comes to Handel's Ice Cream, not only would I drive 45 minutes to get here, if my car broke down I'd consider walking here! I've been here several times over the past few years. They've never let me down. But my most recent experience here may have vaulted them into all-time favorite category. I got into an October ice cream mood while driving back to work from a doctor's appointment recently and made a quick stop here for a dish. I just happen to love fall flavors, and they had two that I got to sample before having. But after sampling them, I couldn't decide between the pumpkin and the apple pie flavors. Well, after ordering one scoop of each, I thanked the ice cream gods for my indecisive brain. Sweet Mother Of All That Is Good And Holy, this place is incredible! The flavors sang to me. I swear to God that dish screamed "Hallelujah" back to me as I ate it! i think that if I ever got to eat Handel's Ice Cream in one sitting with a couple of Hope's Cookies right up the street, I'd transport myself to Dessert Nirvana!
(5)Jessica M.
Wonderful - staff was really nice & helpful. And the ice cream was YUM! I got a root beer float, but also tried the cookie dough ice cream - mmmmm
(4)Jessica S.
There is a reason that the line is so long at Handel's!! The ice cream is delicious. I tried one of the featured flavors - salted caramel cream. It was delicious. There are so many great flavors that the most difficult part is choosing just one!! Can't wait to go back again soon!!
(5)J. M.
I have stood in line in the freezing cold and pouring rain for Handels. Either I and everyone else in line are insane, or, it's 5-star ice cream. Hint: it's 5-star ice cream.
(5)Roni G.
Read the buzz about Handel's on YELP and after a hot day trip to Valley Forge we visited on our way home to Delaware. It was only a 10 minute drive from the park to Handel's and well worth the detour. I tried the Spouse like a House ( their version of B&J's Chubby Hubby) it was delicious. My daughter would not even let me try her chocolate malt, but luckily my other two let mom get a lick of theirs and each one was great. I'm still not sure how my husband resisted the urge to skip ice cream, it's beyond my comprehension. The kids behind the counter are friendly and the price is reasonable, I'll be back next time we're in that neck of the woods. Thanks Handel's!
(4)Fred L.
There's a lot of to love about Handels. It's great ice cream. High (not too high) butter-fat content. Low (not too low) overrun - the amount of air pumped into the mix. Some great flavor options. I hesitate to add to the list of favorite flavors listed in other reviews - everybody has their own favorites. But two seasonal favorites - (fresh) peach in the summer and pumpkin in the fall are worth special mention. The perfect balance. To my taste, even better than Bassetts and significantly better than Brusters. Baskin-Robbins: No comparison. Real ice cream, not DQ. That said, I sometimes with there weren't so many flavors and so many different varieties of frozen treats on the menu at any one time. At times the lines are really long and all those "options" just seem to slow things down. So do people with kids letting the kids try out multiple samples. Add to that extra time when people order sundaes, sodas, shakes or "hurricanes" or to hand-pack pints and quarts. If you come by and see the line extending through the parking area, you have to ask if the wait is worth it. I'm in the neighborhood so this isn't a special trip as it is for some reviewers, so sometimes I just keep going. Management seems unconcerned with speeding things up. (The Creamery at State College gets bigger crowds and they make the line move to get also great ice cream; it can be done.) The line-ups are a sign of great ice cream and good location; also poor logistics. Five stars for product; two stars for delivery. Management does do a great job with their staff. Mostly high school kids. They work hard, move fast and are always polite. I've never seen anybody goofing off.
(3)Bill B.
Delicious flavors in a broad variety, many of which are non-standard. Cheerful staff. Good to-go option as there's no indoor seating.
(3)Emily C.
I have never had better ice cream than from Handel's. The long lines (which move quickly) are worth the wait. So many delicious flavors, but i highly recommend the chocolate chip cookie dough - so good!
(5)Domenic F.
One of the gems of the main line. This ice cream shop is by far a rare institution and something that is of abundant quality and rarity in today's day and age. This is Handels and this is a place that has been serving the families of the main line ice cream and other wonderful treats for YEARS. I routinely go here when I shouldn't but need a fix of that goodness which is the hot apple dumpling. Let me forewarn you this is not for the amateur ice cream eater. Oh no, this is the prime example of something that should be split but is perfect for a meal for 1. This beautiful, wonderful, delicious goodness is all that is great about this place. First let's start out with a hot apple dumpling that is of generous size and portion. On top of that let's get deep dish apple pie on it and omg. It's truly a wonderful experience that i am sure is taking days off of my life, but darn it its a quality of life thing. In all seriousness folks, please do yourself a favor and go to Handel and try this creation and enjoy this place. It's rare for a non-chain ice cream place to exist and this is one of the absolute gems of the entire mainline. Always open (year round!) and something magical happens in the ice cream here. Love it on so many levels.
(5)Craig B.
It's really good. Out on a turn in the road on the Main Line on a summer's evening when nothing else is going on, you'll always find a line at Handel's. It's a little bit out of the way, but I always make the trip when I'm in the area. There you'll find families and small children, people coming from a dinner out, young couples on a date, whatever, lined up in the fast moving line to get one of the farm fresh teenagers to scoop them some ice cream. Real ice cream. Yes, there are a few flavors with a little cute marketing names like Spouse Like a House and Graham Central Station (and they are good), but most of the ice cream is what it is: traditional, homemade, no frills, excellent ice cream. Some charming places to sit would be great, but just focus on eating the ice cream. Me? Butter Pecan. It never disappoints.
(5)Danan R.
Yes, it was raining and a dreary Tuesday. Did I care? Not at all. My hurricane with Nestle Crunch pieces, cookie dough, and brownie bites was the perfect afternoon treat/lazy dinner (ice cream counts as protein, right?). The soft serve was creamy yet simultaneously refreshing and there were plenty of toppings. Way better than a Blizzard. And for once, there wasn't a long line because of the weather. Be sure to get some of the chocolate covered kettle chips. They are just delicious...and semi-addiction inducing. In fact, I kinda wish that I had some right now...
(5)Jocelyn P.
I stopped by Handel's with my stepdaughter and her boyfriend last week and was kind of unimpressed. The kids working seemed put off by having to answer the window and after we each ordered one thing, were met with a frustrated "Anything else???" to close out our order. Our ice cream was good, but nothing extraordinary, so with feeling like I was inconveniencing them by coming to their business, I doubt I'll go back. Maybe it was just a bad day, but if your product is good, but nothing special, I'm not inclined to feel like you're doing me a favor by letting me give you my money.
(2)Adrian B.
Good ice cream but nothing to drive across town for - so 3 stars. If it was closer to me it would get 4.
(3)Steve Z.
3.2 Stars. The icecream is a def step above Bryers but I expected better for the price you pay. Better than Dairy Queen of course but nowhere near the quality of Artisan Gelato but ALMOST on par with decent boardwalk custard. Get the flavor 4 pack to try a nice combo of flavors. I came with high hopes and it had a nice family/neighborhood atmosphere. Slightly disappointed when the spoon hit the mouth.
(3)Miguel G.
National Geographic rated this Youngstown, Ohio based chain the number one place to get ice cream in the world. And............. they're right. I guarantee what ever flavor you try will not disappoint, make sure to try the waffle cones which are the best I have ever had, they make their ice cream fresh every day and are open year-round. Parking is kinda weird and small. They have plenty of windows to order from so the line never gets to long. This is the cream de la cream. Plenty of toppings and they have their own version of a DQ blizzard, as well as many other specials like sundaes, ice cream brownies y mucho mas.
(5)Jim H.
Maybe I was bored. Maybe it was the fact that its been so hot lately. Maybe it was because it was 7pm and my kids were still in their pajamas. Either way, I insisted that we all go out to get some ice cream at Handels. Ive also been dying to take someone , anyone! , here since I came earlier in the summer. Anytime you have a fantastic culinary experience, its always great to go back, and see if it was a fluke. I'm happy to report that the ice cream was actually better than I remembered it. Handels has ruined me to any other ice cream. Its so refreshing and delicious. You don't get that sticky, thirsty feeling afterwards, that you get from most other ice cream. Yes, lines are long but you need that time to figure out which flavor and style you want...and then change your mind...multiple times...before making a game time decision at the window. Hilarious Dialog from the Ride Home *while passing a local school* son: (pointing out the window) Look! That schools on fire! dad: no, i think its just a flag with a light under it , blowing in the wind. son: (disappointed) When is something exciting going to happen in my life!
(5)Vin D.
Wow, I'm not even a huge ice cream guy but this place is terrific. The lines are justified. Cherry vanilla is my go to. My girl is all about the coffee chocolate chunk.
(5)J. S.
Best ice cream anywhere. Nothing more to say. Just be prepared to stand around in the parking lot to eat your ice cream.
(5)Cathy C.
The best ice cream shop!!!
(5)Nelson S.
Long line.... but they had 3 windows open so it went quickly. Get the flavor "spouse like a house". Ridiculous to say but it is vanilla with peanut butter and chocolate covered pretzels. I just felt like Homer Simpson typing that last sentence.
(5)Craig D.
Homemade Ice Cream & LOT'S of Flavors!
(4)Rick R.
Our first visit here was just about an hour ago. The staff was incredibly nice! The flavors were.... very hard to choose because they all looked great! My girlfriend and I both chose the 4 scoop samplers. This will make it much easier to pick something on our next trip. If you are making your first visit, this is my recommendation to you as well. I tried the cotton candy, strawberry, coffee, and cake batter. I liked them from amazing to good in that order. None were bad. My girlfriend blueberry cobbler, butter pecan, dulce de leche, chocolate malt caramel. She enjoyed them all but really preferred the butter pecan over the rest. We highly recommend you stop by if you're in the area! We will definitely be back!
(5)Theresa M.
Great flavor options! Great employees! Free baby cone for the really little ones!
(5)Chelsea S.
For some reason now after a large, filling meal I just crave Handel's ice cream, no matter where I am. I was in Philly having a cheesesteak and all I craved was Handel's ice cream! What?! I don't care what flavor you get, they're all good. The only reason I'd get one flavor or another is if I'm more in the mood for one kind of deliciousness rather than another. I love maple walnut and butter pecan, but i recently discovered vanilla cake batter. Vanilla itself is always a win. Every time I go I try to get a different flavor - which is fine, because you can always get samples. When the bf and i go to our friends' house in Berwyn for our weekly cookouts, dinner is always followed up by a hike over to Handel's. So worth the walk! The five of us usually take over one window while the other windows can keep moving people out because invariably one or two of us (the girls, of course) end up asking for samples before we order, leaving the guys to roll their eyes while they munch away on their vanilla waffle cones. Oh yea, and everyone there is so nice and friendly, even when you show up 5 minutes before closing! (That doesn't mean you SHOULD show up 5 minutes before closing... please, people! They have lives, too! They want to GO HOME!)
(5)Bob B.
Stopped there last night to get some ice cream to take back to my son's place. Got the 4 scoop sampler, and it was awesome. They assured me it would be fine by the time I made the 10 minute drive, and they were absolutely right. Great texture and taste. The place was packed, but the service didn't suffer. My go-to place in Chester County for ice cream.
(4)Glen M.
Now THIS is ice cream! It is window service only, with periodic specials worth trying, and the highest quality. It's popular, you *will* wait in line, so be prepared.
(5)Suyin L.
Best ice cream place ever!! My first visit here and this place totally nailed it. There's always a line but the wait was worth it. My personal favorite flavor is the chocolate raspberry truffle. I got a four scoop sampler and you really can't go wrong with any flavor here. If it's your first visit and you can't really decide on one or two flavors you'd like to try then go for the four scoop sampler:) I can't wait to go there again this Friday!!
(5)Harry E.
No matter the season, temperature, weather, humidity... Handel's is always a good choice! The portions are huge, the array of flavors are vast and it really is hard to go wrong. They let you sample several types of ice cream before you buy, not that you would be remorseful with any pick you made. Aside from ice cream they also have pops, stuff for the kids, samplers and QT sizes to take with you, or share... Who am I kidding to eat alone while you weep that you've been dumped because handels is the only thing to heal heart ache.
(5)Megan W.
O...M...G... I love local ice cream shops. Had a brownie sundae and it was probably one of the better things I have ever had in my life. The long line was completely worth the wait. Check it out!
(5)Tom Z.
Drove 20 miles from our hotel based on these reviews while in town for a lacrosse tournament. My son and I loved it.
(5)Pam A.
In the ice cream category - this is a Michelin 5 star..not quick, be patient...
(5)Jenn G.
This is one of those rare situations where I was completely wrong. My friend has been trying to get me to go to Handel's for years. Coming from a more rural environment, I believed there was no such thing as homemade ice cream if it was a chain. Don't they have stores in South Carolina? Yeah, good homemade ice cream means you go to a shop in front of a dairy farm where the cows causally graze as you nom on their delicious product. WRONG. I was craving ice cream. Decided to stop being a snob and actually try Handel's. I got the the buckeye. WOW. THIS IS THE BEST BUCKEYE ICE CREAM I HAVE EVER HAD. The ice cream is incredibly creamy. There are actual peanuts in the ice cream as well as buckeyes ( and now those crappy buckeyes either). Since then I have been frequenting here and only managed to stray from the heavenly buckeye on my last visit. Hello, peach. Oh my sweet Jesus. It was so light and creamy. There were junks of actual peach in the ice cream. You could tell this was the real deal. These are definitely not frozen. It's so fresh! There is always a line, but it moves fairly quick. The staff has always been willing to entertain my numerous "what's in ____?" Dang it Yelp! Now I want some Handel's ice cream!
(4)Zeke T.
There is no better ice cream anywhere. Doesn't matter what you order, it is truly the best you can find. The only reason I take off 1 star is because of the wait sometimes. There really needs to be a scoop only line and a shakes/sundays/etc line at the other windows when there is a large crowd which is common when it warms up outside. There has to be a way to move things along because waiting in a line that extends through the parking lot is worth the ice cream, but I am sure it can still be avoided with some optimizing of service.
(4)Brian C.
I don't need to go to this location to tell you this is the best ice cream you will ever have. Open all year round, this little ice cream parlor serves up some of the creamiest, most delicious flavors of the cold stuff. They have probably a hundred flavors, but i'm partial to the butter pecan. Don't wait for the summer lines, go now!
(5)Brian M.
A fantastic little ice cream stand in Berwyn! Always a good crowd there. Large selection of familiar and not-so familiar flavors. Handel's is probably why a nearby Cold Stone Creamery went out of business. No comparison-Handels "hands-down."
(4)Evann G.
Graham Central Station ice cream. Changed my life. Yup. Have it with the PB sauce, it's indescribable.
(5)jeff o.
I love this place -- they always have a ton of great flavors (my favorites are: blueberry cobbler, banana cream pie & coffee chocolate chunk) & best off all the are open year-round. There's something strangely great about walking up to a window & ordering an ice cream cone while its snowing in January. Also I am already salivating at the thought of the pumpkin pie ice cream they add to the menu in the fall. the chunks of pie crust rock. Suggestion: get the 4 scoop sampler...it's less than 4 bucks & let's you try a variety of flavors without feeling guilty for asking for multiple free samples. One suggestion for the summer when the lines are insane: have a single line form (like a bank) so the flow of customers is better. i get tired of picking a line where the guy in front of me is ordering for the 12 little leaguers in his car!
(5)Joanna W.
Meh... I LOVE ice cream. This ice cream is OKAY...it was way too mushy for my liking. I went for ice cream, not soft serve. It was also way overpriced.
(3)Emily M.
Ohmygosh my absolute favorite ice cream place and only a couple blocks away from me. My favorite is chocolate cake batter but I haven't met anybody who likes ice cream who hasn't liked this gem.
(5)Nope M.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie. Chocolate Raspberry Truffle. 'Nuff said. In all sincerity, they have great service and delicious ice cream, although it is overpriced. I won't hold that against them though since they are on the Main Line.
(5)Miguel G.
National Geographic rated this Youngstown, Ohio based chain the number one place to get ice cream in the world. And............. they're right. I guarantee what ever flavor you try will not disappoint, make sure to try the waffle cones which are the best I have ever had, they make their ice cream fresh every day and are open year-round. Parking is kinda weird and small. They have plenty of windows to order from so the line never gets to long. This is the cream de la cream. Plenty of toppings and they have their own version of a DQ blizzard, as well as many other specials like sundaes, ice cream brownies y mucho mas.
(5)J. M.
I have stood in line in the freezing cold and pouring rain for Handels. Either I and everyone else in line are insane, or, it's 5-star ice cream. Hint: it's 5-star ice cream.
(5)Steve S.
Being a Delco snob like I am... OK, wait a minute. Should the words "Delco" and "snob" ever be in the same sentence? No, what I'm trying to say is that when it comes to eating on the Main Line, I go hot and cold. There are certainly good places to eat on the Main Line, but in my personal experience, I've also found some of the most overrated eating places on the Main Line too. Call it an overall love-hate realtionship. Considering I work near the Main Line, I have had my share of Main Line experiences. When I judge a place on the Main Line, I always think of it in terms of "Would I drive 30-45 minutes from my Delco home just to eat here?" My fellow Yelpers, when it comes to Handel's Ice Cream, not only would I drive 45 minutes to get here, if my car broke down I'd consider walking here! I've been here several times over the past few years. They've never let me down. But my most recent experience here may have vaulted them into all-time favorite category. I got into an October ice cream mood while driving back to work from a doctor's appointment recently and made a quick stop here for a dish. I just happen to love fall flavors, and they had two that I got to sample before having. But after sampling them, I couldn't decide between the pumpkin and the apple pie flavors. Well, after ordering one scoop of each, I thanked the ice cream gods for my indecisive brain. Sweet Mother Of All That Is Good And Holy, this place is incredible! The flavors sang to me. I swear to God that dish screamed "Hallelujah" back to me as I ate it! i think that if I ever got to eat Handel's Ice Cream in one sitting with a couple of Hope's Cookies right up the street, I'd transport myself to Dessert Nirvana!
(5)Jessica M.
Wonderful - staff was really nice & helpful. And the ice cream was YUM! I got a root beer float, but also tried the cookie dough ice cream - mmmmm
(4)Steve Z.
3.2 Stars. The icecream is a def step above Bryers but I expected better for the price you pay. Better than Dairy Queen of course but nowhere near the quality of Artisan Gelato but ALMOST on par with decent boardwalk custard. Get the flavor 4 pack to try a nice combo of flavors. I came with high hopes and it had a nice family/neighborhood atmosphere. Slightly disappointed when the spoon hit the mouth.
(3)Vin D.
Wow, I'm not even a huge ice cream guy but this place is terrific. The lines are justified. Cherry vanilla is my go to. My girl is all about the coffee chocolate chunk.
(5)Jim H.
Maybe I was bored. Maybe it was the fact that its been so hot lately. Maybe it was because it was 7pm and my kids were still in their pajamas. Either way, I insisted that we all go out to get some ice cream at Handels. Ive also been dying to take someone , anyone! , here since I came earlier in the summer. Anytime you have a fantastic culinary experience, its always great to go back, and see if it was a fluke. I'm happy to report that the ice cream was actually better than I remembered it. Handels has ruined me to any other ice cream. Its so refreshing and delicious. You don't get that sticky, thirsty feeling afterwards, that you get from most other ice cream. Yes, lines are long but you need that time to figure out which flavor and style you want...and then change your mind...multiple times...before making a game time decision at the window. Hilarious Dialog from the Ride Home *while passing a local school* son: (pointing out the window) Look! That schools on fire! dad: no, i think its just a flag with a light under it , blowing in the wind. son: (disappointed) When is something exciting going to happen in my life!
(5)Fred L.
There's a lot of to love about Handels. It's great ice cream. High (not too high) butter-fat content. Low (not too low) overrun - the amount of air pumped into the mix. Some great flavor options. I hesitate to add to the list of favorite flavors listed in other reviews - everybody has their own favorites. But two seasonal favorites - (fresh) peach in the summer and pumpkin in the fall are worth special mention. The perfect balance. To my taste, even better than Bassetts and significantly better than Brusters. Baskin-Robbins: No comparison. Real ice cream, not DQ. That said, I sometimes with there weren't so many flavors and so many different varieties of frozen treats on the menu at any one time. At times the lines are really long and all those "options" just seem to slow things down. So do people with kids letting the kids try out multiple samples. Add to that extra time when people order sundaes, sodas, shakes or "hurricanes" or to hand-pack pints and quarts. If you come by and see the line extending through the parking area, you have to ask if the wait is worth it. I'm in the neighborhood so this isn't a special trip as it is for some reviewers, so sometimes I just keep going. Management seems unconcerned with speeding things up. (The Creamery at State College gets bigger crowds and they make the line move to get also great ice cream; it can be done.) The line-ups are a sign of great ice cream and good location; also poor logistics. Five stars for product; two stars for delivery. Management does do a great job with their staff. Mostly high school kids. They work hard, move fast and are always polite. I've never seen anybody goofing off.
(3)Bill B.
Delicious flavors in a broad variety, many of which are non-standard. Cheerful staff. Good to-go option as there's no indoor seating.
(3)Emily C.
I have never had better ice cream than from Handel's. The long lines (which move quickly) are worth the wait. So many delicious flavors, but i highly recommend the chocolate chip cookie dough - so good!
(5)Domenic F.
One of the gems of the main line. This ice cream shop is by far a rare institution and something that is of abundant quality and rarity in today's day and age. This is Handels and this is a place that has been serving the families of the main line ice cream and other wonderful treats for YEARS. I routinely go here when I shouldn't but need a fix of that goodness which is the hot apple dumpling. Let me forewarn you this is not for the amateur ice cream eater. Oh no, this is the prime example of something that should be split but is perfect for a meal for 1. This beautiful, wonderful, delicious goodness is all that is great about this place. First let's start out with a hot apple dumpling that is of generous size and portion. On top of that let's get deep dish apple pie on it and omg. It's truly a wonderful experience that i am sure is taking days off of my life, but darn it its a quality of life thing. In all seriousness folks, please do yourself a favor and go to Handel and try this creation and enjoy this place. It's rare for a non-chain ice cream place to exist and this is one of the absolute gems of the entire mainline. Always open (year round!) and something magical happens in the ice cream here. Love it on so many levels.
(5)Savannah H.
Their Graham Central Station ice cream is amazing. The ice cream is graham cracker flavored with bits of chocolate covered graham cracker in it. Spouse Like a House is also delicious with peanut butter, chocolate pieces, and pretzels. There are benches to enjoy your ice cream on and the staff is very friendly.
(5)Chelsea S.
For some reason now after a large, filling meal I just crave Handel's ice cream, no matter where I am. I was in Philly having a cheesesteak and all I craved was Handel's ice cream! What?! I don't care what flavor you get, they're all good. The only reason I'd get one flavor or another is if I'm more in the mood for one kind of deliciousness rather than another. I love maple walnut and butter pecan, but i recently discovered vanilla cake batter. Vanilla itself is always a win. Every time I go I try to get a different flavor - which is fine, because you can always get samples. When the bf and i go to our friends' house in Berwyn for our weekly cookouts, dinner is always followed up by a hike over to Handel's. So worth the walk! The five of us usually take over one window while the other windows can keep moving people out because invariably one or two of us (the girls, of course) end up asking for samples before we order, leaving the guys to roll their eyes while they munch away on their vanilla waffle cones. Oh yea, and everyone there is so nice and friendly, even when you show up 5 minutes before closing! (That doesn't mean you SHOULD show up 5 minutes before closing... please, people! They have lives, too! They want to GO HOME!)
(5)Bob B.
Stopped there last night to get some ice cream to take back to my son's place. Got the 4 scoop sampler, and it was awesome. They assured me it would be fine by the time I made the 10 minute drive, and they were absolutely right. Great texture and taste. The place was packed, but the service didn't suffer. My go-to place in Chester County for ice cream.
(4)Glen M.
Now THIS is ice cream! It is window service only, with periodic specials worth trying, and the highest quality. It's popular, you *will* wait in line, so be prepared.
(5)Shari N.
If you find yourself out in the burbs craving a cool, tasty treat...be sure to look for the blue and white striped awnings on Handel's Homemade Ice Cream! Located on Lancaster Avenue in Berwyn, Handel's offers award-winning ice cream that's made fresh daily right there in the store. On any given day, you can choose from about 50 flavors--but they probably make at least 100 different ones--so the choices seem endless. Grab a cup, cone, or hand-packed pint/quart of your favorite flavor or, if you're like me and just can't decide, go for the four-scoop sampler. If you want something with a little extra oomph, opt for a sundae, split or hurricane (ice cream mixed with your favorite toppings). Handel's ice cream is incredibly rich and creamy... and it has the calories and fat content to prove it. Fortunately, Handel's is keenly aware that high ice cream eating season coincides with swimsuit season, so it offers a flavorful array of fat-free, no-sugar-added ice creams, as well as low-fat yogurts, sherbets and ices. I like my ice cream loaded with chocolate, coffee and nuts--and then more chocolate, coffee and nuts--so I typically avoid the fruity flavors. But for you fruit lovers out there, Handel's won't disappoint. Old standbys such as strawberry, cherry and banana are always available, and Handel's seasonally cycles through fruits such as apple, blueberry, grape, lemon, mango, orange, peach, pineapple and raspberry. Handel's also offers seasonal/themed flavors such as Pumpkin Ripple, Eggnog, Girl Scout Thin Mint, Elvis, and Spouse Like a House. I don't even know what those last two are but I'm sure they're fantastic. Of all the delicious choices, my favorite treat is the "Handel Pop." It's a generous scoop of ice cream--vanilla, chocolate, chocolate mint, or the monthly special (go coffee!!)--covered in a thick coat of rich, dark chocolate, and served on a stick for clean-and-easy, eat-while-you-drive consumption. All this for less time and less money than it takes to stop at Wawa for a Dove bar!! Last, but not least, Handel's offers a complimentary "Baby Pop" for all those two- and four-legged tykes you're towing around. Be sure to pick the "kids" up a FREE miniature cake cone topped with a golfball-size dollop of vanilla ice cream...and enjoy a blissfully peaceful drive home as both your toddler and your dog chomp happily away in the backseat.
(5)ben c.
i drive by here often but have never stopped by. my friend and i were craving ice cream one night and most places around during the winter are closed. handels was open so we made the drive from broomall. they have a lot of selection to satisfy any palette! the worker there was patient with us as we were newbs and didnt understand half the things on the menu board. in the end we got what we wanted and it was definitely good! it's softer than was i was expecting and would have liked. also keep in mind it was really cold out. i can't imagine how the ice cream would hold up in the spring/summer months! i like this place and will definitely be back more often.....there's always room for ice cream!!!!!
(4)Roni G.
Read the buzz about Handel's on YELP and after a hot day trip to Valley Forge we visited on our way home to Delaware. It was only a 10 minute drive from the park to Handel's and well worth the detour. I tried the Spouse like a House ( their version of B&J's Chubby Hubby) it was delicious. My daughter would not even let me try her chocolate malt, but luckily my other two let mom get a lick of theirs and each one was great. I'm still not sure how my husband resisted the urge to skip ice cream, it's beyond my comprehension. The kids behind the counter are friendly and the price is reasonable, I'll be back next time we're in that neck of the woods. Thanks Handel's!
(4)Suyin L.
Best ice cream place ever!! My first visit here and this place totally nailed it. There's always a line but the wait was worth it. My personal favorite flavor is the chocolate raspberry truffle. I got a four scoop sampler and you really can't go wrong with any flavor here. If it's your first visit and you can't really decide on one or two flavors you'd like to try then go for the four scoop sampler:) I can't wait to go there again this Friday!!
(5)Nelson S.
Long line.... but they had 3 windows open so it went quickly. Get the flavor "spouse like a house". Ridiculous to say but it is vanilla with peanut butter and chocolate covered pretzels. I just felt like Homer Simpson typing that last sentence.
(5)Craig D.
Homemade Ice Cream & LOT'S of Flavors!
(4)Brian C.
I don't need to go to this location to tell you this is the best ice cream you will ever have. Open all year round, this little ice cream parlor serves up some of the creamiest, most delicious flavors of the cold stuff. They have probably a hundred flavors, but i'm partial to the butter pecan. Don't wait for the summer lines, go now!
(5)Curtis F.
YUM YUM YUM! So many flavors to choose form with so many few days of Summer to enjoy them all. We go here for special treats when neither of us care about our waist lines. Tonight's delicacies were praline pecan and dolce de lece ice cream. Always crowded with lines to the parking lot, but worth a few minutes wait. Don't let Summer end.
(5)Jaime D.
Location is a standard walk-up ice cream shop. There has never been not a line whenever I've gone but the lines and/or the wait is well worth it. We couldn't get enough of this place while we were in Malvern. All I can say is "Spouse like House", I dream of you when I think of ice cream. Yum Factor = 10/10.
(5)Alex V.
For some reason the Philadelphia area lacks good ice cream places. Handel's is definitely the best option out there, but be prepared to wait. There is usually a 10-15 minute line anytime during the night.
(5)Brian M.
A fantastic little ice cream stand in Berwyn! Always a good crowd there. Large selection of familiar and not-so familiar flavors. Handel's is probably why a nearby Cold Stone Creamery went out of business. No comparison-Handels "hands-down."
(4)Evann G.
Graham Central Station ice cream. Changed my life. Yup. Have it with the PB sauce, it's indescribable.
(5)jeff o.
I love this place -- they always have a ton of great flavors (my favorites are: blueberry cobbler, banana cream pie & coffee chocolate chunk) & best off all the are open year-round. There's something strangely great about walking up to a window & ordering an ice cream cone while its snowing in January. Also I am already salivating at the thought of the pumpkin pie ice cream they add to the menu in the fall. the chunks of pie crust rock. Suggestion: get the 4 scoop sampler...it's less than 4 bucks & let's you try a variety of flavors without feeling guilty for asking for multiple free samples. One suggestion for the summer when the lines are insane: have a single line form (like a bank) so the flow of customers is better. i get tired of picking a line where the guy in front of me is ordering for the 12 little leaguers in his car!
(5)Joanna W.
Meh... I LOVE ice cream. This ice cream is OKAY...it was way too mushy for my liking. I went for ice cream, not soft serve. It was also way overpriced.
(3)Emily M.
Ohmygosh my absolute favorite ice cream place and only a couple blocks away from me. My favorite is chocolate cake batter but I haven't met anybody who likes ice cream who hasn't liked this gem.
(5)Nyssa H.
as good as ice cream gets!
(5)Nope M.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie. Chocolate Raspberry Truffle. 'Nuff said. In all sincerity, they have great service and delicious ice cream, although it is overpriced. I won't hold that against them though since they are on the Main Line.
(5)Barney B.
best black and white shake I have had in quite a while. so happy that Philly area is not just all water ice and gelato
(4)Paige B.
In 2006, /National Geographic/ magazine awarded Handel's the title of top ice cream spot in the country--and for good reason. All flavors are made fresh daily and in-store. There are approximately 40 flavors available on any given day, which include classics as well as more unique offerings (Banana Cream Pie, Blueberry Cobbler, Spouse Like a House are the first few that come to mind). If you're more of a traditionalist, the Chocolate flavor is fantastic! It's soft, creamy, and rich. Menu highlights include: Chocoholic Chunk (the richest, most "decked out" chocolate you'll find), Banana, and Peanut Butter Parfait.
(5)Harry E.
No matter the season, temperature, weather, humidity... Handel's is always a good choice! The portions are huge, the array of flavors are vast and it really is hard to go wrong. They let you sample several types of ice cream before you buy, not that you would be remorseful with any pick you made. Aside from ice cream they also have pops, stuff for the kids, samplers and QT sizes to take with you, or share... Who am I kidding to eat alone while you weep that you've been dumped because handels is the only thing to heal heart ache.
(5)Sam L.
Be still, my ice cream-fiending heart! That's what I have to tell myself when I'm within a 1-mile radius of Handel's, so imagine the heart palpitations while I'm actually waiting in line. Ah, the line. Is it likely to be long, especially on a summer day? Yes. Is the ice cream worth the wait? Yes! So much yes. Even the obnoxious, entitled, posturing Main Line folks can't derail a happy Handel's ice cream experience. Or maybe I've just become so used to these sorts that they've become comedic fodder rather than genuine aggravation. And their offspring can be off putting too, but hey ho. If you're a little less forgiving than I, then don't go in the evening, especially when it's warm outside. That's when the lines are the worst. But how Handel's handles (*wink*) their long lines earns major points with me. There are always multiple windows open and things generally move quickly here. The employees are well-trained, competent, and friendly. The fact that Handel's is open all year long is in complete accordance with ice cream philosophy: ice cream should be enjoyed during all times of the year, not just on warm, sunny days. Now, onto the ice cream, which is just the the kind I like: rich, dense, creamy, not the least bit icy, and magically delicious, no matter which flavor I choose. Despite the dulce de leche securing a permanent place in my heart (I have a "thing" for caramel), all of the other flavors I've tried have been amazing, from the peanut butter, to the butter pecan, to the buckeye, to the cookie dough, to the coconut cream pie, to the strawberry cheesecake, to the black cherry. The dulce de leche is my go-to, though, and tastes especially spectacular in a brownie sundae. The brownies are ultra chocolatey, fudgey, gooey, and taste just like my mom's homemade larger-than-life brownies that I've enjoyed since forever. Plus, they're served warm. So imagine this: ice cold caramel ice cream on top of a warm fudge brownie, drizzled with genuine hot fudge, crowned with coils of whipped cream, and topped with a maraschino cherry. Honest to goodness perfection, yo. Handel's hot fudge is out of this world and so is their caramel sauce. You can sample four ice creams at once for $4.75, which is a steal, especially in comparison to their $3.15 single-scoop cones. This is where I get my ice cream fix and it should be your number one ice cream spot, too.
(5)Nicole J.
I scream. You scream. We all scream for Handel's Ice Cream. Their homemade icecream is insanely good that its worth typing out this corny opener. All over their windows are awards for best ice cream in the city. It is well deserved and lives up to the hype. I got a (generous) single scoop of strawberry cheesecake icecream and I couldn't finish it all. It was delicious and studded with chunks of cheesecake. Single scoops on a cone are $3.15 but you can get a 4 scoop sampler for $4.75. They take credit card and you order outside. I've heard the line gets ridiculous as night so be prepared to wait.
(5)Kathryn W.
Graham station is so good! Very different from any ice cream ice had before with lots of graham cracker bits. Also the spouse one is super good.
(5)Taylor S.
The ice cream is absolutely to die for and they have a huge selection of flavored to choose from. The people at the counter are always nice too. Definitely best ice cream around. Come here and you won't be disappointed.
(5)Lydia B.
Handles prepared 2 whimsical birthday cake/pie's for my daughter six birthday. I asked them to make it look cute and pretty and I was very please with the adorable result. The ice cream is always delicious, of course it's ice cream made fresh. I hope they put cinnamon ice cream back on the menu it's not always on and it's always so good. Handles produces a consistently top-notch product with very friendly service.
(5)Jake A.
Now who goes to have ice cream on a cold wintry day? Yours truly. Why? Because there is nothing else in the world that compares to Handel's! I'm not an ice cream kind of guy. But I'm the first to admit if something is so deliciously flavorful, I'd be willing to throw caution to the winds and grab a coneful. Or rather a quartful. That's what a friend and I are doing today on this cold day in December. Now you'd think that we'd be the odd ones out to want an ice cream on such a day. But I'm happy to report that there are other odd folks like us in here today. Seriously though, they have the best flavors. Even their chocolate ice cream is so delightful. I have no idea how they do this, but yes, you've got me. Coming here has become one of my vices.
(5)Jo L.
Yummy! So many flavors! I loved the Black Raspberry Ice Cream. They have these cool looking "Handel Pops" which is ice cream covered in chocolate on a stick. I didn't get to try it but I will be back to!
(5)Andrew L.
First time. Single scoop of Coconut Cream Pie was fantastic. Great deal. Would certainly swing by again if I was in the area.
(5)Halima G.
Handles has so much different flavored ice cream you don't even know. I love the coffee chocolate chip and the mint chocolate chip . They put a lot of ice cream on the cone and it's about 3 dollars for a cake cone. The other cones are about 4.30$ The ice cream is delicious and it's definitely for what you paid for
(5)Tori W.
No complaints! My personal favorite is buckeye! It's delicious but I also enjoy the cookie dough hurricane! There is always a line so you know it's worth the wait!!! I've never had anything bad there. Also the butter pecan is delicious and made with the biggest pecans I've ever seen! The staff is so nice and let's you sample whatever you would like!! Plus they always give extra napkins!!!!!!
(5)Robert B.
Homemade ice creams in a very wide variety... And all are terrific, as far as I can tell ( guess I have to keep trying other favors, oh well, someone has to do it!)
(5)Shravya N.
four sampler :) can always try different flavored ...i loved pistachio, peanut butter and buckeye. Black cherry, vanilla, butterscotch,chocolate chunk, banana are very simple but good.
(4)L K.
The lines can be awful, especially when there are a million kids that none of the bourgeois parents feel like dealing with, because they're too busy posturing to try to look like a Real Housewife, and working hard to stare at everyone else around them, which they think intimidates people and makes them cool, but which really is just vile and offensive. This people-who-live-in-the-little-houses-but-act-like-Âthey-live-in-the-big-houses complex is a real turn-off, and actually a bit of a deterrent for us, BUT Handel's works to process the line quickly, to cure this pain, and then you have ice cream at the end of it! Besides, most of the anorexic-wannabe women don't order anything big or time-consuming anyway (they get a child's cone and take one lick because they're so mentally disturbed). What a relief. That said, all in all, Handel's is still a great place for delicious ice cream! At Handel's a cone is not big enough, a pint is not big enough, noooooo, it takes a QUART (each) when Handel's is concerned! Excellent, excellent, excellent ice cream! This is probably why, despite the fact that they are 3 miles from our home, we cannot allow ourselves to go too often, lest we fail to fit out the front door for subsequent trips! Seriously, my husband and I don't finish a quart in one sitting, but we do each get one, and greedily guard and savor it for days after, like rabid children. This is some of the creamiest, richest ice cream I have ever had. Cold Stone, I would say, is creamier, but theirs is so creamy it makes me a little ill. I would place Handels' creaminess between Cold Stone and Brewster's. But for us, the freshness and overall taste of Handel's exceeds anything else. I tried cookies and cream (I believe they call it vanilla Oreo, or something) the first time I went, and in many many trips since, I have not changed to anything else. I am not yet ready to be over this flavor, and I may never try anything else. My husband tries something different each time, and is always thoroughly pleased. The employees are normally very friendly. The owner's family is most professional. One time we had an issue with the quarts not being packed very well, but Buck, the franchise owner, called back, immediately, and took care of everything, with generosity.
(5)James D.
Amazing homemade quality, great variety of flavors, and very friendly staff. Ice-cream how it should be.
(5)Denise P.
Best ice cream I have had!!! Will definitely stop there again!!!! Lots of flavors to choose from and the service was quick!!
(4)LaDonna M.
Had an vanilla ice cream sandwich, the chocolate peanut butter brownie, and the buckeye. They were all amazing and perfect for a hot day.
(5)Curtis F.
YUM YUM YUM! So many flavors to choose form with so many few days of Summer to enjoy them all. We go here for special treats when neither of us care about our waist lines. Tonight's delicacies were praline pecan and dolce de lece ice cream. Always crowded with lines to the parking lot, but worth a few minutes wait. Don't let Summer end.
(5)Jaime D.
Location is a standard walk-up ice cream shop. There has never been not a line whenever I've gone but the lines and/or the wait is well worth it. We couldn't get enough of this place while we were in Malvern. All I can say is "Spouse like House", I dream of you when I think of ice cream. Yum Factor = 10/10.
(5)Bruce B.
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream is a landmark in Berwyn near Paolo, and I came here for some dessert with a good friend of mine. The lines were very long but don't get discouraged they move very fast. Handel's has dozens of flavors, I forgot just how many though, and the combination is endless. I chose a cup with black cherry and a scoop of coconut custard pie on top. Both flavors were so delicious, but the coconut cream pie was the winner. It had pieces of pie crust with Coconut custard pudding and lots of coconut meat throughout. The ice cream was very, very creamy and the sweetest was just perfect. We were driving home while eating the ice cream and if we hadn't drove so far, I would have went back for seconds! There was a problem however, but it had nothing to do with Handlel's ice cream. Apparently I have a lactose problem which was awakened by that rich, creamy delicious ice cream. My ample belly had Blown up and filled with the mother gas cloud of them all! By the time I got home, I was gassing off to the tune of The Big Payback by James Brown. I went upstairs to my bedroom to lay down in peace, and after 5 minutes, my cat Max evacuated the premises with extreme prejudice. I had so much gas that OPEC Was texting me. I saw a PGW Truck parked outside with workers shining flashlights in my window! Was it worth it? I would do it again in a heartbeat!
(5)Jan G.
Wonderful ice cream....our faves: chocolate pecan and, yes, vanilla. Just ordered our daughter's birthday cake
(5)Yasuji M.
They do ice cream right. It's not a surprise they run business since 1945. Be prepared to make a line for 10 min minimum which is an indication of their quality. Wish to have this closer to home but it is worth driving for 15 min for this ice cream.
(5)Tim T.
Awesome homemade ice cream!! Great selection of flavors, preparations, and at decent prices. Tucked into Wayne and a great place to bring the family. Parking is not bad, just be watchful for the long lines. We came here after a disappointing dinner somewhere at A place to never be mentioned again, in Wayne. As we rolled-up, were a little daunted by the long line, but knew this place was going to be good because of the line. We gazed at the menu and were amazed by the shear number of flavors and selections of preparations for ice cream and frozen yogurt. I tired a couple flavors like chocolate cake batter and buckeye which were delicious. My friend enjoyed the graham central station. The servers were cool and patient. They also placed the ice cream in the cones properly with large to small scoops. I was pleased that the seemed knowledgable at flavors, taste, textures, and placement. If your in Wayne and you like ice cream, come here. One of the best places to go for ice cream!!
(4)Jenn G.
This is one of those rare situations where I was completely wrong. My friend has been trying to get me to go to Handel's for years. Coming from a more rural environment, I believed there was no such thing as homemade ice cream if it was a chain. Don't they have stores in South Carolina? Yeah, good homemade ice cream means you go to a shop in front of a dairy farm where the cows causally graze as you nom on their delicious product. WRONG. I was craving ice cream. Decided to stop being a snob and actually try Handel's. I got the the buckeye. WOW. THIS IS THE BEST BUCKEYE ICE CREAM I HAVE EVER HAD. The ice cream is incredibly creamy. There are actual peanuts in the ice cream as well as buckeyes ( and now those crappy buckeyes either). Since then I have been frequenting here and only managed to stray from the heavenly buckeye on my last visit. Hello, peach. Oh my sweet Jesus. It was so light and creamy. There were junks of actual peach in the ice cream. You could tell this was the real deal. These are definitely not frozen. It's so fresh! There is always a line, but it moves fairly quick. The staff has always been willing to entertain my numerous "what's in ____?" Dang it Yelp! Now I want some Handel's ice cream!
(4)Zeke T.
There is no better ice cream anywhere. Doesn't matter what you order, it is truly the best you can find. The only reason I take off 1 star is because of the wait sometimes. There really needs to be a scoop only line and a shakes/sundays/etc line at the other windows when there is a large crowd which is common when it warms up outside. There has to be a way to move things along because waiting in a line that extends through the parking lot is worth the ice cream, but I am sure it can still be avoided with some optimizing of service.
(4)Paige B.
In 2006, /National Geographic/ magazine awarded Handel's the title of top ice cream spot in the country--and for good reason. All flavors are made fresh daily and in-store. There are approximately 40 flavors available on any given day, which include classics as well as more unique offerings (Banana Cream Pie, Blueberry Cobbler, Spouse Like a House are the first few that come to mind). If you're more of a traditionalist, the Chocolate flavor is fantastic! It's soft, creamy, and rich. Menu highlights include: Chocoholic Chunk (the richest, most "decked out" chocolate you'll find), Banana, and Peanut Butter Parfait.
(5)Megan W.
O...M...G... I love local ice cream shops. Had a brownie sundae and it was probably one of the better things I have ever had in my life. The long line was completely worth the wait. Check it out!
(5)Tom Z.
Drove 20 miles from our hotel based on these reviews while in town for a lacrosse tournament. My son and I loved it.
(5)Pam A.
In the ice cream category - this is a Michelin 5 star..not quick, be patient...
(5)Jessica S.
There is a reason that the line is so long at Handel's!! The ice cream is delicious. I tried one of the featured flavors - salted caramel cream. It was delicious. There are so many great flavors that the most difficult part is choosing just one!! Can't wait to go back again soon!!
(5)Shravya N.
four sampler :) can always try different flavored ...i loved pistachio, peanut butter and buckeye. Black cherry, vanilla, butterscotch,chocolate chunk, banana are very simple but good.
(4)Taylor S.
The ice cream is absolutely to die for and they have a huge selection of flavored to choose from. The people at the counter are always nice too. Definitely best ice cream around. Come here and you won't be disappointed.
(5)Jake A.
Now who goes to have ice cream on a cold wintry day? Yours truly. Why? Because there is nothing else in the world that compares to Handel's! I'm not an ice cream kind of guy. But I'm the first to admit if something is so deliciously flavorful, I'd be willing to throw caution to the winds and grab a coneful. Or rather a quartful. That's what a friend and I are doing today on this cold day in December. Now you'd think that we'd be the odd ones out to want an ice cream on such a day. But I'm happy to report that there are other odd folks like us in here today. Seriously though, they have the best flavors. Even their chocolate ice cream is so delightful. I have no idea how they do this, but yes, you've got me. Coming here has become one of my vices.
(5)Andrew L.
First time. Single scoop of Coconut Cream Pie was fantastic. Great deal. Would certainly swing by again if I was in the area.
(5)Jo L.
Yummy! So many flavors! I loved the Black Raspberry Ice Cream. They have these cool looking "Handel Pops" which is ice cream covered in chocolate on a stick. I didn't get to try it but I will be back to!
(5)Halima G.
Handles has so much different flavored ice cream you don't even know. I love the coffee chocolate chip and the mint chocolate chip . They put a lot of ice cream on the cone and it's about 3 dollars for a cake cone. The other cones are about 4.30$ The ice cream is delicious and it's definitely for what you paid for
(5)Barney B.
best black and white shake I have had in quite a while. so happy that Philly area is not just all water ice and gelato
(4)Savannah H.
Their Graham Central Station ice cream is amazing. The ice cream is graham cracker flavored with bits of chocolate covered graham cracker in it. Spouse Like a House is also delicious with peanut butter, chocolate pieces, and pretzels. There are benches to enjoy your ice cream on and the staff is very friendly.
(5)Jocelyn P.
I stopped by Handel's with my stepdaughter and her boyfriend last week and was kind of unimpressed. The kids working seemed put off by having to answer the window and after we each ordered one thing, were met with a frustrated "Anything else???" to close out our order. Our ice cream was good, but nothing extraordinary, so with feeling like I was inconveniencing them by coming to their business, I doubt I'll go back. Maybe it was just a bad day, but if your product is good, but nothing special, I'm not inclined to feel like you're doing me a favor by letting me give you my money.
(2)Nyssa H.
as good as ice cream gets!
(5)Shari N.
If you find yourself out in the burbs craving a cool, tasty treat...be sure to look for the blue and white striped awnings on Handel's Homemade Ice Cream! Located on Lancaster Avenue in Berwyn, Handel's offers award-winning ice cream that's made fresh daily right there in the store. On any given day, you can choose from about 50 flavors--but they probably make at least 100 different ones--so the choices seem endless. Grab a cup, cone, or hand-packed pint/quart of your favorite flavor or, if you're like me and just can't decide, go for the four-scoop sampler. If you want something with a little extra oomph, opt for a sundae, split or hurricane (ice cream mixed with your favorite toppings). Handel's ice cream is incredibly rich and creamy... and it has the calories and fat content to prove it. Fortunately, Handel's is keenly aware that high ice cream eating season coincides with swimsuit season, so it offers a flavorful array of fat-free, no-sugar-added ice creams, as well as low-fat yogurts, sherbets and ices. I like my ice cream loaded with chocolate, coffee and nuts--and then more chocolate, coffee and nuts--so I typically avoid the fruity flavors. But for you fruit lovers out there, Handel's won't disappoint. Old standbys such as strawberry, cherry and banana are always available, and Handel's seasonally cycles through fruits such as apple, blueberry, grape, lemon, mango, orange, peach, pineapple and raspberry. Handel's also offers seasonal/themed flavors such as Pumpkin Ripple, Eggnog, Girl Scout Thin Mint, Elvis, and Spouse Like a House. I don't even know what those last two are but I'm sure they're fantastic. Of all the delicious choices, my favorite treat is the "Handel Pop." It's a generous scoop of ice cream--vanilla, chocolate, chocolate mint, or the monthly special (go coffee!!)--covered in a thick coat of rich, dark chocolate, and served on a stick for clean-and-easy, eat-while-you-drive consumption. All this for less time and less money than it takes to stop at Wawa for a Dove bar!! Last, but not least, Handel's offers a complimentary "Baby Pop" for all those two- and four-legged tykes you're towing around. Be sure to pick the "kids" up a FREE miniature cake cone topped with a golfball-size dollop of vanilla ice cream...and enjoy a blissfully peaceful drive home as both your toddler and your dog chomp happily away in the backseat.
(5)ben c.
i drive by here often but have never stopped by. my friend and i were craving ice cream one night and most places around during the winter are closed. handels was open so we made the drive from broomall. they have a lot of selection to satisfy any palette! the worker there was patient with us as we were newbs and didnt understand half the things on the menu board. in the end we got what we wanted and it was definitely good! it's softer than was i was expecting and would have liked. also keep in mind it was really cold out. i can't imagine how the ice cream would hold up in the spring/summer months! i like this place and will definitely be back more often.....there's always room for ice cream!!!!!
(4)Alex V.
For some reason the Philadelphia area lacks good ice cream places. Handel's is definitely the best option out there, but be prepared to wait. There is usually a 10-15 minute line anytime during the night.
(5)J. S.
Best ice cream anywhere. Nothing more to say. Just be prepared to stand around in the parking lot to eat your ice cream.
(5)Craig B.
It's really good. Out on a turn in the road on the Main Line on a summer's evening when nothing else is going on, you'll always find a line at Handel's. It's a little bit out of the way, but I always make the trip when I'm in the area. There you'll find families and small children, people coming from a dinner out, young couples on a date, whatever, lined up in the fast moving line to get one of the farm fresh teenagers to scoop them some ice cream. Real ice cream. Yes, there are a few flavors with a little cute marketing names like Spouse Like a House and Graham Central Station (and they are good), but most of the ice cream is what it is: traditional, homemade, no frills, excellent ice cream. Some charming places to sit would be great, but just focus on eating the ice cream. Me? Butter Pecan. It never disappoints.
(5)Cathy C.
The best ice cream shop!!!
(5)Adrian B.
Good ice cream but nothing to drive across town for - so 3 stars. If it was closer to me it would get 4.
(3)Rick R.
Our first visit here was just about an hour ago. The staff was incredibly nice! The flavors were.... very hard to choose because they all looked great! My girlfriend and I both chose the 4 scoop samplers. This will make it much easier to pick something on our next trip. If you are making your first visit, this is my recommendation to you as well. I tried the cotton candy, strawberry, coffee, and cake batter. I liked them from amazing to good in that order. None were bad. My girlfriend blueberry cobbler, butter pecan, dulce de leche, chocolate malt caramel. She enjoyed them all but really preferred the butter pecan over the rest. We highly recommend you stop by if you're in the area! We will definitely be back!
(5)Theresa M.
Great flavor options! Great employees! Free baby cone for the really little ones!
(5)L K.
The lines can be awful, especially when there are a million kids that none of the bourgeois parents feel like dealing with, because they're too busy posturing to try to look like a Real Housewife, and working hard to stare at everyone else around them, which they think intimidates people and makes them cool, but which really is just vile and offensive. This people-who-live-in-the-little-houses-but-act-like-Âthey-live-in-the-big-houses complex is a real turn-off, and actually a bit of a deterrent for us, BUT Handel's works to process the line quickly, to cure this pain, and then you have ice cream at the end of it! Besides, most of the anorexic-wannabe women don't order anything big or time-consuming anyway (they get a child's cone and take one lick because they're so mentally disturbed). What a relief. That said, all in all, Handel's is still a great place for delicious ice cream! At Handel's a cone is not big enough, a pint is not big enough, noooooo, it takes a QUART (each) when Handel's is concerned! Excellent, excellent, excellent ice cream! This is probably why, despite the fact that they are 3 miles from our home, we cannot allow ourselves to go too often, lest we fail to fit out the front door for subsequent trips! Seriously, my husband and I don't finish a quart in one sitting, but we do each get one, and greedily guard and savor it for days after, like rabid children. This is some of the creamiest, richest ice cream I have ever had. Cold Stone, I would say, is creamier, but theirs is so creamy it makes me a little ill. I would place Handels' creaminess between Cold Stone and Brewster's. But for us, the freshness and overall taste of Handel's exceeds anything else. I tried cookies and cream (I believe they call it vanilla Oreo, or something) the first time I went, and in many many trips since, I have not changed to anything else. I am not yet ready to be over this flavor, and I may never try anything else. My husband tries something different each time, and is always thoroughly pleased. The employees are normally very friendly. The owner's family is most professional. One time we had an issue with the quarts not being packed very well, but Buck, the franchise owner, called back, immediately, and took care of everything, with generosity.
(5)Kathryn W.
Graham station is so good! Very different from any ice cream ice had before with lots of graham cracker bits. Also the spouse one is super good.
(5)Denise P.
Best ice cream I have had!!! Will definitely stop there again!!!! Lots of flavors to choose from and the service was quick!!
(4)Danan R.
Yes, it was raining and a dreary Tuesday. Did I care? Not at all. My hurricane with Nestle Crunch pieces, cookie dough, and brownie bites was the perfect afternoon treat/lazy dinner (ice cream counts as protein, right?). The soft serve was creamy yet simultaneously refreshing and there were plenty of toppings. Way better than a Blizzard. And for once, there wasn't a long line because of the weather. Be sure to get some of the chocolate covered kettle chips. They are just delicious...and semi-addiction inducing. In fact, I kinda wish that I had some right now...
(5)Sam L.
Be still, my ice cream-fiending heart! That's what I have to tell myself when I'm within a 1-mile radius of Handel's, so imagine the heart palpitations while I'm actually waiting in line. Ah, the line. Is it likely to be long, especially on a summer day? Yes. Is the ice cream worth the wait? Yes! So much yes. Even the obnoxious, entitled, posturing Main Line folks can't derail a happy Handel's ice cream experience. Or maybe I've just become so used to these sorts that they've become comedic fodder rather than genuine aggravation. And their offspring can be off putting too, but hey ho. If you're a little less forgiving than I, then don't go in the evening, especially when it's warm outside. That's when the lines are the worst. But how Handel's handles (*wink*) their long lines earns major points with me. There are always multiple windows open and things generally move quickly here. The employees are well-trained, competent, and friendly. The fact that Handel's is open all year long is in complete accordance with ice cream philosophy: ice cream should be enjoyed during all times of the year, not just on warm, sunny days. Now, onto the ice cream, which is just the the kind I like: rich, dense, creamy, not the least bit icy, and magically delicious, no matter which flavor I choose. Despite the dulce de leche securing a permanent place in my heart (I have a "thing" for caramel), all of the other flavors I've tried have been amazing, from the peanut butter, to the butter pecan, to the buckeye, to the cookie dough, to the coconut cream pie, to the strawberry cheesecake, to the black cherry. The dulce de leche is my go-to, though, and tastes especially spectacular in a brownie sundae. The brownies are ultra chocolatey, fudgey, gooey, and taste just like my mom's homemade larger-than-life brownies that I've enjoyed since forever. Plus, they're served warm. So imagine this: ice cold caramel ice cream on top of a warm fudge brownie, drizzled with genuine hot fudge, crowned with coils of whipped cream, and topped with a maraschino cherry. Honest to goodness perfection, yo. Handel's hot fudge is out of this world and so is their caramel sauce. You can sample four ice creams at once for $4.75, which is a steal, especially in comparison to their $3.15 single-scoop cones. This is where I get my ice cream fix and it should be your number one ice cream spot, too.
(5)Nicole J.
I scream. You scream. We all scream for Handel's Ice Cream. Their homemade icecream is insanely good that its worth typing out this corny opener. All over their windows are awards for best ice cream in the city. It is well deserved and lives up to the hype. I got a (generous) single scoop of strawberry cheesecake icecream and I couldn't finish it all. It was delicious and studded with chunks of cheesecake. Single scoops on a cone are $3.15 but you can get a 4 scoop sampler for $4.75. They take credit card and you order outside. I've heard the line gets ridiculous as night so be prepared to wait.
(5)Lydia B.
Handles prepared 2 whimsical birthday cake/pie's for my daughter six birthday. I asked them to make it look cute and pretty and I was very please with the adorable result. The ice cream is always delicious, of course it's ice cream made fresh. I hope they put cinnamon ice cream back on the menu it's not always on and it's always so good. Handles produces a consistently top-notch product with very friendly service.
(5)Tori W.
No complaints! My personal favorite is buckeye! It's delicious but I also enjoy the cookie dough hurricane! There is always a line so you know it's worth the wait!!! I've never had anything bad there. Also the butter pecan is delicious and made with the biggest pecans I've ever seen! The staff is so nice and let's you sample whatever you would like!! Plus they always give extra napkins!!!!!!
(5)Robert B.
Homemade ice creams in a very wide variety... And all are terrific, as far as I can tell ( guess I have to keep trying other favors, oh well, someone has to do it!)
(5)LaDonna M.
Had an vanilla ice cream sandwich, the chocolate peanut butter brownie, and the buckeye. They were all amazing and perfect for a hot day.
(5)Bruce B.
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream is a landmark in Berwyn near Paolo, and I came here for some dessert with a good friend of mine. The lines were very long but don't get discouraged they move very fast. Handel's has dozens of flavors, I forgot just how many though, and the combination is endless. I chose a cup with black cherry and a scoop of coconut custard pie on top. Both flavors were so delicious, but the coconut cream pie was the winner. It had pieces of pie crust with Coconut custard pudding and lots of coconut meat throughout. The ice cream was very, very creamy and the sweetest was just perfect. We were driving home while eating the ice cream and if we hadn't drove so far, I would have went back for seconds! There was a problem however, but it had nothing to do with Handlel's ice cream. Apparently I have a lactose problem which was awakened by that rich, creamy delicious ice cream. My ample belly had Blown up and filled with the mother gas cloud of them all! By the time I got home, I was gassing off to the tune of The Big Payback by James Brown. I went upstairs to my bedroom to lay down in peace, and after 5 minutes, my cat Max evacuated the premises with extreme prejudice. I had so much gas that OPEC Was texting me. I saw a PGW Truck parked outside with workers shining flashlights in my window! Was it worth it? I would do it again in a heartbeat!
(5)Yasuji M.
They do ice cream right. It's not a surprise they run business since 1945. Be prepared to make a line for 10 min minimum which is an indication of their quality. Wish to have this closer to home but it is worth driving for 15 min for this ice cream.
(5)Jan G.
Wonderful ice cream....our faves: chocolate pecan and, yes, vanilla. Just ordered our daughter's birthday cake
(5)Tim T.
Awesome homemade ice cream!! Great selection of flavors, preparations, and at decent prices. Tucked into Wayne and a great place to bring the family. Parking is not bad, just be watchful for the long lines. We came here after a disappointing dinner somewhere at A place to never be mentioned again, in Wayne. As we rolled-up, were a little daunted by the long line, but knew this place was going to be good because of the line. We gazed at the menu and were amazed by the shear number of flavors and selections of preparations for ice cream and frozen yogurt. I tired a couple flavors like chocolate cake batter and buckeye which were delicious. My friend enjoyed the graham central station. The servers were cool and patient. They also placed the ice cream in the cones properly with large to small scoops. I was pleased that the seemed knowledgable at flavors, taste, textures, and placement. If your in Wayne and you like ice cream, come here. One of the best places to go for ice cream!!
(4)Eric M.
This is some of the best ice cream ever. It's a shame we don't live closer but if we did I would be eating it every night. Be sure to try the Graham Central Station.
(5)Rebecca R.
We drive twenty minutes out of our way to go to Handels. Even when the line is long, the employees work as efficiently as possible to get it moving. Our personal favorites are: cake batter, black raspberry, and chocoholic chunk. Delicious!
(5)James D.
Amazing homemade quality, great variety of flavors, and very friendly staff. Ice-cream how it should be.
(5)Jocelyn P.
I stopped by Handel's with my stepdaughter and her boyfriend last week and was kind of unimpressed. The kids working seemed put off by having to answer the window and after we each ordered one thing, were met with a frustrated "Anything else???" to close out our order. Our ice cream was good, but nothing extraordinary, so with feeling like I was inconveniencing them by coming to their business, I doubt I'll go back. Maybe it was just a bad day, but if your product is good, but nothing special, I'm not inclined to feel like you're doing me a favor by letting me give you my money.
(2)Steve Z.
3.2 Stars. The icecream is a def step above Bryers but I expected better for the price you pay. Better than Dairy Queen of course but nowhere near the quality of Artisan Gelato but ALMOST on par with decent boardwalk custard. Get the flavor 4 pack to try a nice combo of flavors. I came with high hopes and it had a nice family/neighborhood atmosphere. Slightly disappointed when the spoon hit the mouth.
(3)Miguel G.
National Geographic rated this Youngstown, Ohio based chain the number one place to get ice cream in the world. And............. they're right. I guarantee what ever flavor you try will not disappoint, make sure to try the waffle cones which are the best I have ever had, they make their ice cream fresh every day and are open year-round. Parking is kinda weird and small. They have plenty of windows to order from so the line never gets to long. This is the cream de la cream. Plenty of toppings and they have their own version of a DQ blizzard, as well as many other specials like sundaes, ice cream brownies y mucho mas.
(5)Jim H.
Maybe I was bored. Maybe it was the fact that its been so hot lately. Maybe it was because it was 7pm and my kids were still in their pajamas. Either way, I insisted that we all go out to get some ice cream at Handels. Ive also been dying to take someone , anyone! , here since I came earlier in the summer. Anytime you have a fantastic culinary experience, its always great to go back, and see if it was a fluke. I'm happy to report that the ice cream was actually better than I remembered it. Handels has ruined me to any other ice cream. Its so refreshing and delicious. You don't get that sticky, thirsty feeling afterwards, that you get from most other ice cream. Yes, lines are long but you need that time to figure out which flavor and style you want...and then change your mind...multiple times...before making a game time decision at the window. Hilarious Dialog from the Ride Home *while passing a local school* son: (pointing out the window) Look! That schools on fire! dad: no, i think its just a flag with a light under it , blowing in the wind. son: (disappointed) When is something exciting going to happen in my life!
(5)Vin D.
Wow, I'm not even a huge ice cream guy but this place is terrific. The lines are justified. Cherry vanilla is my go to. My girl is all about the coffee chocolate chunk.
(5)J. S.
Best ice cream anywhere. Nothing more to say. Just be prepared to stand around in the parking lot to eat your ice cream.
(5)Cathy C.
The best ice cream shop!!!
(5)Adrian B.
Good ice cream but nothing to drive across town for - so 3 stars. If it was closer to me it would get 4.
(3)Rick R.
Our first visit here was just about an hour ago. The staff was incredibly nice! The flavors were.... very hard to choose because they all looked great! My girlfriend and I both chose the 4 scoop samplers. This will make it much easier to pick something on our next trip. If you are making your first visit, this is my recommendation to you as well. I tried the cotton candy, strawberry, coffee, and cake batter. I liked them from amazing to good in that order. None were bad. My girlfriend blueberry cobbler, butter pecan, dulce de leche, chocolate malt caramel. She enjoyed them all but really preferred the butter pecan over the rest. We highly recommend you stop by if you're in the area! We will definitely be back!
(5)Theresa M.
Great flavor options! Great employees! Free baby cone for the really little ones!
(5)Glen M.
Now THIS is ice cream! It is window service only, with periodic specials worth trying, and the highest quality. It's popular, you *will* wait in line, so be prepared.
(5)Brian C.
I don't need to go to this location to tell you this is the best ice cream you will ever have. Open all year round, this little ice cream parlor serves up some of the creamiest, most delicious flavors of the cold stuff. They have probably a hundred flavors, but i'm partial to the butter pecan. Don't wait for the summer lines, go now!
(5)Curtis F.
YUM YUM YUM! So many flavors to choose form with so many few days of Summer to enjoy them all. We go here for special treats when neither of us care about our waist lines. Tonight's delicacies were praline pecan and dolce de lece ice cream. Always crowded with lines to the parking lot, but worth a few minutes wait. Don't let Summer end.
(5)Jaime D.
Location is a standard walk-up ice cream shop. There has never been not a line whenever I've gone but the lines and/or the wait is well worth it. We couldn't get enough of this place while we were in Malvern. All I can say is "Spouse like House", I dream of you when I think of ice cream. Yum Factor = 10/10.
(5)Alex V.
For some reason the Philadelphia area lacks good ice cream places. Handel's is definitely the best option out there, but be prepared to wait. There is usually a 10-15 minute line anytime during the night.
(5)Chelsea S.
For some reason now after a large, filling meal I just crave Handel's ice cream, no matter where I am. I was in Philly having a cheesesteak and all I craved was Handel's ice cream! What?! I don't care what flavor you get, they're all good. The only reason I'd get one flavor or another is if I'm more in the mood for one kind of deliciousness rather than another. I love maple walnut and butter pecan, but i recently discovered vanilla cake batter. Vanilla itself is always a win. Every time I go I try to get a different flavor - which is fine, because you can always get samples. When the bf and i go to our friends' house in Berwyn for our weekly cookouts, dinner is always followed up by a hike over to Handel's. So worth the walk! The five of us usually take over one window while the other windows can keep moving people out because invariably one or two of us (the girls, of course) end up asking for samples before we order, leaving the guys to roll their eyes while they munch away on their vanilla waffle cones. Oh yea, and everyone there is so nice and friendly, even when you show up 5 minutes before closing! (That doesn't mean you SHOULD show up 5 minutes before closing... please, people! They have lives, too! They want to GO HOME!)
(5)Bob B.
Stopped there last night to get some ice cream to take back to my son's place. Got the 4 scoop sampler, and it was awesome. They assured me it would be fine by the time I made the 10 minute drive, and they were absolutely right. Great texture and taste. The place was packed, but the service didn't suffer. My go-to place in Chester County for ice cream.
(4)Rebecca R.
We drive twenty minutes out of our way to go to Handels. Even when the line is long, the employees work as efficiently as possible to get it moving. Our personal favorites are: cake batter, black raspberry, and chocoholic chunk. Delicious!
(5)James D.
Amazing homemade quality, great variety of flavors, and very friendly staff. Ice-cream how it should be.
(5)Harry E.
No matter the season, temperature, weather, humidity... Handel's is always a good choice! The portions are huge, the array of flavors are vast and it really is hard to go wrong. They let you sample several types of ice cream before you buy, not that you would be remorseful with any pick you made. Aside from ice cream they also have pops, stuff for the kids, samplers and QT sizes to take with you, or share... Who am I kidding to eat alone while you weep that you've been dumped because handels is the only thing to heal heart ache.
(5)Megan W.
O...M...G... I love local ice cream shops. Had a brownie sundae and it was probably one of the better things I have ever had in my life. The long line was completely worth the wait. Check it out!
(5)Tom Z.
Drove 20 miles from our hotel based on these reviews while in town for a lacrosse tournament. My son and I loved it.
(5)Pam A.
In the ice cream category - this is a Michelin 5 star..not quick, be patient...
(5)Paige B.
In 2006, /National Geographic/ magazine awarded Handel's the title of top ice cream spot in the country--and for good reason. All flavors are made fresh daily and in-store. There are approximately 40 flavors available on any given day, which include classics as well as more unique offerings (Banana Cream Pie, Blueberry Cobbler, Spouse Like a House are the first few that come to mind). If you're more of a traditionalist, the Chocolate flavor is fantastic! It's soft, creamy, and rich. Menu highlights include: Chocoholic Chunk (the richest, most "decked out" chocolate you'll find), Banana, and Peanut Butter Parfait.
(5)Jake A.
Now who goes to have ice cream on a cold wintry day? Yours truly. Why? Because there is nothing else in the world that compares to Handel's! I'm not an ice cream kind of guy. But I'm the first to admit if something is so deliciously flavorful, I'd be willing to throw caution to the winds and grab a coneful. Or rather a quartful. That's what a friend and I are doing today on this cold day in December. Now you'd think that we'd be the odd ones out to want an ice cream on such a day. But I'm happy to report that there are other odd folks like us in here today. Seriously though, they have the best flavors. Even their chocolate ice cream is so delightful. I have no idea how they do this, but yes, you've got me. Coming here has become one of my vices.
(5)Jo L.
Yummy! So many flavors! I loved the Black Raspberry Ice Cream. They have these cool looking "Handel Pops" which is ice cream covered in chocolate on a stick. I didn't get to try it but I will be back to!
(5)Andrew L.
First time. Single scoop of Coconut Cream Pie was fantastic. Great deal. Would certainly swing by again if I was in the area.
(5)Halima G.
Handles has so much different flavored ice cream you don't even know. I love the coffee chocolate chip and the mint chocolate chip . They put a lot of ice cream on the cone and it's about 3 dollars for a cake cone. The other cones are about 4.30$ The ice cream is delicious and it's definitely for what you paid for
(5)Sam L.
Be still, my ice cream-fiending heart! That's what I have to tell myself when I'm within a 1-mile radius of Handel's, so imagine the heart palpitations while I'm actually waiting in line. Ah, the line. Is it likely to be long, especially on a summer day? Yes. Is the ice cream worth the wait? Yes! So much yes. Even the obnoxious, entitled, posturing Main Line folks can't derail a happy Handel's ice cream experience. Or maybe I've just become so used to these sorts that they've become comedic fodder rather than genuine aggravation. And their offspring can be off putting too, but hey ho. If you're a little less forgiving than I, then don't go in the evening, especially when it's warm outside. That's when the lines are the worst. But how Handel's handles (*wink*) their long lines earns major points with me. There are always multiple windows open and things generally move quickly here. The employees are well-trained, competent, and friendly. The fact that Handel's is open all year long is in complete accordance with ice cream philosophy: ice cream should be enjoyed during all times of the year, not just on warm, sunny days. Now, onto the ice cream, which is just the the kind I like: rich, dense, creamy, not the least bit icy, and magically delicious, no matter which flavor I choose. Despite the dulce de leche securing a permanent place in my heart (I have a "thing" for caramel), all of the other flavors I've tried have been amazing, from the peanut butter, to the butter pecan, to the buckeye, to the cookie dough, to the coconut cream pie, to the strawberry cheesecake, to the black cherry. The dulce de leche is my go-to, though, and tastes especially spectacular in a brownie sundae. The brownies are ultra chocolatey, fudgey, gooey, and taste just like my mom's homemade larger-than-life brownies that I've enjoyed since forever. Plus, they're served warm. So imagine this: ice cold caramel ice cream on top of a warm fudge brownie, drizzled with genuine hot fudge, crowned with coils of whipped cream, and topped with a maraschino cherry. Honest to goodness perfection, yo. Handel's hot fudge is out of this world and so is their caramel sauce. You can sample four ice creams at once for $4.75, which is a steal, especially in comparison to their $3.15 single-scoop cones. This is where I get my ice cream fix and it should be your number one ice cream spot, too.
(5)Nicole J.
I scream. You scream. We all scream for Handel's Ice Cream. Their homemade icecream is insanely good that its worth typing out this corny opener. All over their windows are awards for best ice cream in the city. It is well deserved and lives up to the hype. I got a (generous) single scoop of strawberry cheesecake icecream and I couldn't finish it all. It was delicious and studded with chunks of cheesecake. Single scoops on a cone are $3.15 but you can get a 4 scoop sampler for $4.75. They take credit card and you order outside. I've heard the line gets ridiculous as night so be prepared to wait.
(5)Denise P.
Best ice cream I have had!!! Will definitely stop there again!!!! Lots of flavors to choose from and the service was quick!!
(4)Shravya N.
four sampler :) can always try different flavored ...i loved pistachio, peanut butter and buckeye. Black cherry, vanilla, butterscotch,chocolate chunk, banana are very simple but good.
(4)L K.
The lines can be awful, especially when there are a million kids that none of the bourgeois parents feel like dealing with, because they're too busy posturing to try to look like a Real Housewife, and working hard to stare at everyone else around them, which they think intimidates people and makes them cool, but which really is just vile and offensive. This people-who-live-in-the-little-houses-but-act-like-Âthey-live-in-the-big-houses complex is a real turn-off, and actually a bit of a deterrent for us, BUT Handel's works to process the line quickly, to cure this pain, and then you have ice cream at the end of it! Besides, most of the anorexic-wannabe women don't order anything big or time-consuming anyway (they get a child's cone and take one lick because they're so mentally disturbed). What a relief. That said, all in all, Handel's is still a great place for delicious ice cream! At Handel's a cone is not big enough, a pint is not big enough, noooooo, it takes a QUART (each) when Handel's is concerned! Excellent, excellent, excellent ice cream! This is probably why, despite the fact that they are 3 miles from our home, we cannot allow ourselves to go too often, lest we fail to fit out the front door for subsequent trips! Seriously, my husband and I don't finish a quart in one sitting, but we do each get one, and greedily guard and savor it for days after, like rabid children. This is some of the creamiest, richest ice cream I have ever had. Cold Stone, I would say, is creamier, but theirs is so creamy it makes me a little ill. I would place Handels' creaminess between Cold Stone and Brewster's. But for us, the freshness and overall taste of Handel's exceeds anything else. I tried cookies and cream (I believe they call it vanilla Oreo, or something) the first time I went, and in many many trips since, I have not changed to anything else. I am not yet ready to be over this flavor, and I may never try anything else. My husband tries something different each time, and is always thoroughly pleased. The employees are normally very friendly. The owner's family is most professional. One time we had an issue with the quarts not being packed very well, but Buck, the franchise owner, called back, immediately, and took care of everything, with generosity.
(5)Kathryn W.
Graham station is so good! Very different from any ice cream ice had before with lots of graham cracker bits. Also the spouse one is super good.
(5)Taylor S.
The ice cream is absolutely to die for and they have a huge selection of flavored to choose from. The people at the counter are always nice too. Definitely best ice cream around. Come here and you won't be disappointed.
(5)Lydia B.
Handles prepared 2 whimsical birthday cake/pie's for my daughter six birthday. I asked them to make it look cute and pretty and I was very please with the adorable result. The ice cream is always delicious, of course it's ice cream made fresh. I hope they put cinnamon ice cream back on the menu it's not always on and it's always so good. Handles produces a consistently top-notch product with very friendly service.
(5)Tori W.
No complaints! My personal favorite is buckeye! It's delicious but I also enjoy the cookie dough hurricane! There is always a line so you know it's worth the wait!!! I've never had anything bad there. Also the butter pecan is delicious and made with the biggest pecans I've ever seen! The staff is so nice and let's you sample whatever you would like!! Plus they always give extra napkins!!!!!!
(5)Robert B.
Homemade ice creams in a very wide variety... And all are terrific, as far as I can tell ( guess I have to keep trying other favors, oh well, someone has to do it!)
(5)LaDonna M.
Had an vanilla ice cream sandwich, the chocolate peanut butter brownie, and the buckeye. They were all amazing and perfect for a hot day.
(5)Bruce B.
Handel's Homemade Ice Cream is a landmark in Berwyn near Paolo, and I came here for some dessert with a good friend of mine. The lines were very long but don't get discouraged they move very fast. Handel's has dozens of flavors, I forgot just how many though, and the combination is endless. I chose a cup with black cherry and a scoop of coconut custard pie on top. Both flavors were so delicious, but the coconut cream pie was the winner. It had pieces of pie crust with Coconut custard pudding and lots of coconut meat throughout. The ice cream was very, very creamy and the sweetest was just perfect. We were driving home while eating the ice cream and if we hadn't drove so far, I would have went back for seconds! There was a problem however, but it had nothing to do with Handlel's ice cream. Apparently I have a lactose problem which was awakened by that rich, creamy delicious ice cream. My ample belly had Blown up and filled with the mother gas cloud of them all! By the time I got home, I was gassing off to the tune of The Big Payback by James Brown. I went upstairs to my bedroom to lay down in peace, and after 5 minutes, my cat Max evacuated the premises with extreme prejudice. I had so much gas that OPEC Was texting me. I saw a PGW Truck parked outside with workers shining flashlights in my window! Was it worth it? I would do it again in a heartbeat!
(5)Jan G.
Wonderful ice cream....our faves: chocolate pecan and, yes, vanilla. Just ordered our daughter's birthday cake
(5)Yasuji M.
They do ice cream right. It's not a surprise they run business since 1945. Be prepared to make a line for 10 min minimum which is an indication of their quality. Wish to have this closer to home but it is worth driving for 15 min for this ice cream.
(5)Tim T.
Awesome homemade ice cream!! Great selection of flavors, preparations, and at decent prices. Tucked into Wayne and a great place to bring the family. Parking is not bad, just be watchful for the long lines. We came here after a disappointing dinner somewhere at A place to never be mentioned again, in Wayne. As we rolled-up, were a little daunted by the long line, but knew this place was going to be good because of the line. We gazed at the menu and were amazed by the shear number of flavors and selections of preparations for ice cream and frozen yogurt. I tired a couple flavors like chocolate cake batter and buckeye which were delicious. My friend enjoyed the graham central station. The servers were cool and patient. They also placed the ice cream in the cones properly with large to small scoops. I was pleased that the seemed knowledgable at flavors, taste, textures, and placement. If your in Wayne and you like ice cream, come here. One of the best places to go for ice cream!!
(4)Eric M.
This is some of the best ice cream ever. It's a shame we don't live closer but if we did I would be eating it every night. Be sure to try the Graham Central Station.
(5)Jessica M.
Wonderful - staff was really nice & helpful. And the ice cream was YUM! I got a root beer float, but also tried the cookie dough ice cream - mmmmm
(4)Jessica S.
There is a reason that the line is so long at Handel's!! The ice cream is delicious. I tried one of the featured flavors - salted caramel cream. It was delicious. There are so many great flavors that the most difficult part is choosing just one!! Can't wait to go back again soon!!
(5)J. M.
I have stood in line in the freezing cold and pouring rain for Handels. Either I and everyone else in line are insane, or, it's 5-star ice cream. Hint: it's 5-star ice cream.
(5)Jenn G.
This is one of those rare situations where I was completely wrong. My friend has been trying to get me to go to Handel's for years. Coming from a more rural environment, I believed there was no such thing as homemade ice cream if it was a chain. Don't they have stores in South Carolina? Yeah, good homemade ice cream means you go to a shop in front of a dairy farm where the cows causally graze as you nom on their delicious product. WRONG. I was craving ice cream. Decided to stop being a snob and actually try Handel's. I got the the buckeye. WOW. THIS IS THE BEST BUCKEYE ICE CREAM I HAVE EVER HAD. The ice cream is incredibly creamy. There are actual peanuts in the ice cream as well as buckeyes ( and now those crappy buckeyes either). Since then I have been frequenting here and only managed to stray from the heavenly buckeye on my last visit. Hello, peach. Oh my sweet Jesus. It was so light and creamy. There were junks of actual peach in the ice cream. You could tell this was the real deal. These are definitely not frozen. It's so fresh! There is always a line, but it moves fairly quick. The staff has always been willing to entertain my numerous "what's in ____?" Dang it Yelp! Now I want some Handel's ice cream!
(4)Zeke T.
There is no better ice cream anywhere. Doesn't matter what you order, it is truly the best you can find. The only reason I take off 1 star is because of the wait sometimes. There really needs to be a scoop only line and a shakes/sundays/etc line at the other windows when there is a large crowd which is common when it warms up outside. There has to be a way to move things along because waiting in a line that extends through the parking lot is worth the ice cream, but I am sure it can still be avoided with some optimizing of service.
(4)Roni G.
Read the buzz about Handel's on YELP and after a hot day trip to Valley Forge we visited on our way home to Delaware. It was only a 10 minute drive from the park to Handel's and well worth the detour. I tried the Spouse like a House ( their version of B&J's Chubby Hubby) it was delicious. My daughter would not even let me try her chocolate malt, but luckily my other two let mom get a lick of theirs and each one was great. I'm still not sure how my husband resisted the urge to skip ice cream, it's beyond my comprehension. The kids behind the counter are friendly and the price is reasonable, I'll be back next time we're in that neck of the woods. Thanks Handel's!
(4)Steve S.
Being a Delco snob like I am... OK, wait a minute. Should the words "Delco" and "snob" ever be in the same sentence? No, what I'm trying to say is that when it comes to eating on the Main Line, I go hot and cold. There are certainly good places to eat on the Main Line, but in my personal experience, I've also found some of the most overrated eating places on the Main Line too. Call it an overall love-hate realtionship. Considering I work near the Main Line, I have had my share of Main Line experiences. When I judge a place on the Main Line, I always think of it in terms of "Would I drive 30-45 minutes from my Delco home just to eat here?" My fellow Yelpers, when it comes to Handel's Ice Cream, not only would I drive 45 minutes to get here, if my car broke down I'd consider walking here! I've been here several times over the past few years. They've never let me down. But my most recent experience here may have vaulted them into all-time favorite category. I got into an October ice cream mood while driving back to work from a doctor's appointment recently and made a quick stop here for a dish. I just happen to love fall flavors, and they had two that I got to sample before having. But after sampling them, I couldn't decide between the pumpkin and the apple pie flavors. Well, after ordering one scoop of each, I thanked the ice cream gods for my indecisive brain. Sweet Mother Of All That Is Good And Holy, this place is incredible! The flavors sang to me. I swear to God that dish screamed "Hallelujah" back to me as I ate it! i think that if I ever got to eat Handel's Ice Cream in one sitting with a couple of Hope's Cookies right up the street, I'd transport myself to Dessert Nirvana!
(5)Suyin L.
Best ice cream place ever!! My first visit here and this place totally nailed it. There's always a line but the wait was worth it. My personal favorite flavor is the chocolate raspberry truffle. I got a four scoop sampler and you really can't go wrong with any flavor here. If it's your first visit and you can't really decide on one or two flavors you'd like to try then go for the four scoop sampler:) I can't wait to go there again this Friday!!
(5)Nelson S.
Long line.... but they had 3 windows open so it went quickly. Get the flavor "spouse like a house". Ridiculous to say but it is vanilla with peanut butter and chocolate covered pretzels. I just felt like Homer Simpson typing that last sentence.
(5)Fred L.
There's a lot of to love about Handels. It's great ice cream. High (not too high) butter-fat content. Low (not too low) overrun - the amount of air pumped into the mix. Some great flavor options. I hesitate to add to the list of favorite flavors listed in other reviews - everybody has their own favorites. But two seasonal favorites - (fresh) peach in the summer and pumpkin in the fall are worth special mention. The perfect balance. To my taste, even better than Bassetts and significantly better than Brusters. Baskin-Robbins: No comparison. Real ice cream, not DQ. That said, I sometimes with there weren't so many flavors and so many different varieties of frozen treats on the menu at any one time. At times the lines are really long and all those "options" just seem to slow things down. So do people with kids letting the kids try out multiple samples. Add to that extra time when people order sundaes, sodas, shakes or "hurricanes" or to hand-pack pints and quarts. If you come by and see the line extending through the parking area, you have to ask if the wait is worth it. I'm in the neighborhood so this isn't a special trip as it is for some reviewers, so sometimes I just keep going. Management seems unconcerned with speeding things up. (The Creamery at State College gets bigger crowds and they make the line move to get also great ice cream; it can be done.) The line-ups are a sign of great ice cream and good location; also poor logistics. Five stars for product; two stars for delivery. Management does do a great job with their staff. Mostly high school kids. They work hard, move fast and are always polite. I've never seen anybody goofing off.
(3)Bill B.
Delicious flavors in a broad variety, many of which are non-standard. Cheerful staff. Good to-go option as there's no indoor seating.
(3)Emily C.
I have never had better ice cream than from Handel's. The long lines (which move quickly) are worth the wait. So many delicious flavors, but i highly recommend the chocolate chip cookie dough - so good!
(5)Domenic F.
One of the gems of the main line. This ice cream shop is by far a rare institution and something that is of abundant quality and rarity in today's day and age. This is Handels and this is a place that has been serving the families of the main line ice cream and other wonderful treats for YEARS. I routinely go here when I shouldn't but need a fix of that goodness which is the hot apple dumpling. Let me forewarn you this is not for the amateur ice cream eater. Oh no, this is the prime example of something that should be split but is perfect for a meal for 1. This beautiful, wonderful, delicious goodness is all that is great about this place. First let's start out with a hot apple dumpling that is of generous size and portion. On top of that let's get deep dish apple pie on it and omg. It's truly a wonderful experience that i am sure is taking days off of my life, but darn it its a quality of life thing. In all seriousness folks, please do yourself a favor and go to Handel and try this creation and enjoy this place. It's rare for a non-chain ice cream place to exist and this is one of the absolute gems of the entire mainline. Always open (year round!) and something magical happens in the ice cream here. Love it on so many levels.
(5)Craig B.
It's really good. Out on a turn in the road on the Main Line on a summer's evening when nothing else is going on, you'll always find a line at Handel's. It's a little bit out of the way, but I always make the trip when I'm in the area. There you'll find families and small children, people coming from a dinner out, young couples on a date, whatever, lined up in the fast moving line to get one of the farm fresh teenagers to scoop them some ice cream. Real ice cream. Yes, there are a few flavors with a little cute marketing names like Spouse Like a House and Graham Central Station (and they are good), but most of the ice cream is what it is: traditional, homemade, no frills, excellent ice cream. Some charming places to sit would be great, but just focus on eating the ice cream. Me? Butter Pecan. It never disappoints.
(5)Danan R.
Yes, it was raining and a dreary Tuesday. Did I care? Not at all. My hurricane with Nestle Crunch pieces, cookie dough, and brownie bites was the perfect afternoon treat/lazy dinner (ice cream counts as protein, right?). The soft serve was creamy yet simultaneously refreshing and there were plenty of toppings. Way better than a Blizzard. And for once, there wasn't a long line because of the weather. Be sure to get some of the chocolate covered kettle chips. They are just delicious...and semi-addiction inducing. In fact, I kinda wish that I had some right now...
(5)Shari N.
If you find yourself out in the burbs craving a cool, tasty treat...be sure to look for the blue and white striped awnings on Handel's Homemade Ice Cream! Located on Lancaster Avenue in Berwyn, Handel's offers award-winning ice cream that's made fresh daily right there in the store. On any given day, you can choose from about 50 flavors--but they probably make at least 100 different ones--so the choices seem endless. Grab a cup, cone, or hand-packed pint/quart of your favorite flavor or, if you're like me and just can't decide, go for the four-scoop sampler. If you want something with a little extra oomph, opt for a sundae, split or hurricane (ice cream mixed with your favorite toppings). Handel's ice cream is incredibly rich and creamy... and it has the calories and fat content to prove it. Fortunately, Handel's is keenly aware that high ice cream eating season coincides with swimsuit season, so it offers a flavorful array of fat-free, no-sugar-added ice creams, as well as low-fat yogurts, sherbets and ices. I like my ice cream loaded with chocolate, coffee and nuts--and then more chocolate, coffee and nuts--so I typically avoid the fruity flavors. But for you fruit lovers out there, Handel's won't disappoint. Old standbys such as strawberry, cherry and banana are always available, and Handel's seasonally cycles through fruits such as apple, blueberry, grape, lemon, mango, orange, peach, pineapple and raspberry. Handel's also offers seasonal/themed flavors such as Pumpkin Ripple, Eggnog, Girl Scout Thin Mint, Elvis, and Spouse Like a House. I don't even know what those last two are but I'm sure they're fantastic. Of all the delicious choices, my favorite treat is the "Handel Pop." It's a generous scoop of ice cream--vanilla, chocolate, chocolate mint, or the monthly special (go coffee!!)--covered in a thick coat of rich, dark chocolate, and served on a stick for clean-and-easy, eat-while-you-drive consumption. All this for less time and less money than it takes to stop at Wawa for a Dove bar!! Last, but not least, Handel's offers a complimentary "Baby Pop" for all those two- and four-legged tykes you're towing around. Be sure to pick the "kids" up a FREE miniature cake cone topped with a golfball-size dollop of vanilla ice cream...and enjoy a blissfully peaceful drive home as both your toddler and your dog chomp happily away in the backseat.
(5)ben c.
i drive by here often but have never stopped by. my friend and i were craving ice cream one night and most places around during the winter are closed. handels was open so we made the drive from broomall. they have a lot of selection to satisfy any palette! the worker there was patient with us as we were newbs and didnt understand half the things on the menu board. in the end we got what we wanted and it was definitely good! it's softer than was i was expecting and would have liked. also keep in mind it was really cold out. i can't imagine how the ice cream would hold up in the spring/summer months! i like this place and will definitely be back more often.....there's always room for ice cream!!!!!
(4)Brian M.
A fantastic little ice cream stand in Berwyn! Always a good crowd there. Large selection of familiar and not-so familiar flavors. Handel's is probably why a nearby Cold Stone Creamery went out of business. No comparison-Handels "hands-down."
(4)Evann G.
Graham Central Station ice cream. Changed my life. Yup. Have it with the PB sauce, it's indescribable.
(5)jeff o.
I love this place -- they always have a ton of great flavors (my favorites are: blueberry cobbler, banana cream pie & coffee chocolate chunk) & best off all the are open year-round. There's something strangely great about walking up to a window & ordering an ice cream cone while its snowing in January. Also I am already salivating at the thought of the pumpkin pie ice cream they add to the menu in the fall. the chunks of pie crust rock. Suggestion: get the 4 scoop sampler...it's less than 4 bucks & let's you try a variety of flavors without feeling guilty for asking for multiple free samples. One suggestion for the summer when the lines are insane: have a single line form (like a bank) so the flow of customers is better. i get tired of picking a line where the guy in front of me is ordering for the 12 little leaguers in his car!
(5)Joanna W.
Meh... I LOVE ice cream. This ice cream is OKAY...it was way too mushy for my liking. I went for ice cream, not soft serve. It was also way overpriced.
(3)Emily M.
Ohmygosh my absolute favorite ice cream place and only a couple blocks away from me. My favorite is chocolate cake batter but I haven't met anybody who likes ice cream who hasn't liked this gem.
(5)Nope M.
Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie. Chocolate Raspberry Truffle. 'Nuff said. In all sincerity, they have great service and delicious ice cream, although it is overpriced. I won't hold that against them though since they are on the Main Line.
(5)Nyssa H.
as good as ice cream gets!
(5)Barney B.
best black and white shake I have had in quite a while. so happy that Philly area is not just all water ice and gelato
(4)Savannah H.
Their Graham Central Station ice cream is amazing. The ice cream is graham cracker flavored with bits of chocolate covered graham cracker in it. Spouse Like a House is also delicious with peanut butter, chocolate pieces, and pretzels. There are benches to enjoy your ice cream on and the staff is very friendly.
(5)