Will H.
Yelp
We've popped into this location a few times, and while the ice cream is okay, it's nothing memorable. Emack & Bolio's will suffice if I'm desperately craving ice cream, I'm nearby, and the line isn't out the door, but we've passed it up numerous times because the ice cream wasn't worth the wait and chaos.
The space is so cramped and inefficient, and the staff aren't nearly as colorful as the menus, flavors, and artwork in the store would make you hope. During my last visit, the person at the counter wasn't convincing me that anything was going to be worth my time, so I went with a "Best in New England" vanilla bean. As with many "best of" menu items in life, the hype fell short. It was strong on the vanilla with a decent texture, but not sure how this was considered the best. The more adventurous flavors are better in my experiences.
The one door in/out and the constant lines and jockeying with tourists and families for position is so ridiculous that this location has always been a last resort. Maybe it's the crazy cones, or wild flavors that draw customers in, but if you're looking for simple, excellent ice cream, this might not be your spot. If you can't stand disorganization, you may also dislike this location.
Overall, the Instagram hype in pictures far outweighs what I've had in the cup or cone. If that's what draws you in, you won't be disappointed by what you see or the size of your ice cream. The prices may shock you a bit, though. I wish I had a better suggestion in the area for ice cream, but sadly, there aren't many options in Back Bay. Emack & Bolio's will hit the spot if you have a craving, but don't expect to walk away saying, "this is everything I had hoped for!"