Cold treats for hot days this summer in Louisville

Summer is on its way, and some days even a hot meal feels like too much. Fuel up for a day in the sun with these cold drinks, refreshing bites, and sweet treats.

A row of colorful gelato flavors with toppings like fruit, sprinkles, and cookie crumbs.

Stop by every day and try a new flavor every time. | Photo via Gelato Gilberto

Table of Contents

Temperatures are starting to climb and they won’t be coming down for a while. Here’s the scoop on spots to grab a refreshing treat to keep those patio days going.

Brew-tifal ways to start the day

Heine Brothers | Various locations
Heine’s robust menu features iced coffee and non-coffee energy drinks like the Lavender RACING BOOST (in honor of our very own Racing Louisville FC).

Please & Thank You | Various locations
It’s not just warm chocolate chip cookies. The Thai iced coffee, rosemary lemonade, and “Laura Palmer” will keep you going through the dog days.

Honeydew | 135 Breckenridge Ln.
Summer is about strolling around with bubble tea, and for that, Honeydew has you covered. Pro tip: Save the heavier teas, like cookies and cream, for a day of sitting in the shade.

Beat the midday heat

Pokehana | 436 W. Market St.
A poke bowl with cold-brewed green tea won’t sit heavy in your stomach — perfect for a day of walking the town.

Lueberry | Various locations
Açai bowls are the star of this “Cali-inspired” menu, but don’t miss any of the classic summer salads (think: quinoa, berries, and sun-dried tomatoes).

Cold Smoke Bagels | 1001 Logan St.
Fill your plate with lox, pickled veggies, marinated herrings, and other NYC Jewish classics.

Sundaes for sunny days

Dairy Kastle | 575 Eastern Pkwy.
This Louisville staple’s old-school soft serve and root beer floats are the taste of summer.

Gelato Gilberto | 2240 Frankfort Ave.
It’s hard to find a place that specializes in artisanal gelato, and Gelato Gilberto delivers. Plus, in case you didn’t know, gelato melts slower.

Panchito’s Ice Cream | Various locations
This ice cream shop and taqueria offers churro sundaes, fruit cocktails with chamoy, and milkshakes in 30+ flavors.

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