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.

More from LOUtoday
Make the most of good weather by taking your meals al fresco on one of Louisville’s many beautiful patios.
This Atherton High School grad is the most decorated American winter Paralympian of all time.
Get hooked on these spots from March through April.
This Louisville bookstore has been closed for over 20 years, but it lives on in the memories of its erstwhile patrons.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
These Louisville resources can help you in family history research
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
It’s the biggest lineup in the festival’s history
From classical music to new compositions and pop music, Louisville’s Grammy-winning orchestra has a little something for everyone this year.
This Black-owned pharmacy is bringing local care to Russell and beyond.