Jan K.
Yelp
Paradise Ice Cream [PIC]. (4 stars).
Truth be told... I have always preferred gelato to ice cream but there aren't many Gelaterias in the DMV.
Gelato uses fresh ingredients to flavor the base, has less fat, and is softer than ice cream. But Ice Cream keeps me satisfied until I can get my gelato fix...
I came to PIC for a Yelp Elite Event but I purchased the vanilla ice cream sandwich, Mad Oreo Crush cake, and Fried Oreos.
PIC is located in a small industrial mall in the "middle of the road". It isn't the easiest to find as all the signs have the same design... Red with white lettering.
Parking is available in the shared lot.
There are a few things during my visit that I just thought were a bit different...
The employees can be heard screaming at each other from the outside. Perhaps they are unaware but it isn't the most welcoming...
This is a PICK UP ONLY establishment. There is no dining area.
Perhaps, due to COVID, no one is allowed inside. You have to order on the phone or by knocking on the door and having an employee come out to take your order.
After purchasing my items, I received my card back, but no receipt was given. While I can easily check my account online, I was surprised that receipts weren't offered. Not a major issue for me, but I imagine some may want or need a receipt...?
The Oreo cookie ice cream cake (Mad Oreo Crush Cake) was good. The Oreos were very prevalent and helped to mellow the sweet vanilla based cream. The Oreo crumbles gave a nice texture along with the 4 Oreos on top.
The fried Oreos were equally delicious. I would just recommend eating them immediately. By the time I got home, the batter was soggy. In between the batter and the Oreo, there is a layer of custard which helped to add a creamy texture to each bite. I appreciated the added custard. Otherwise the Oreo would be on the dry side... Ask for the powdered sugar on the side. It dissolves quickly so sprinkling it on yourself when you eat it is the best way to enjoy this tasty snack.
The vanilla ice cream sandwich was tasty. The chocolate chip cookies were chewy and tasty. The rainbow sprinkles were generously applied and vibrant in color!!
The double chocolate cake ice cream was chocolatey but I'm a dark chocolate lover so it was a little subdued for my taste.
PIC has some premium flavors of ice cream as well. Definitely check them out!!
If I'm in the area again, I would definitely consider stopping by for an ice cream snack.
I wish PIC well. I was grateful for the snacks and happy to support this local small business.