New York has plenty of places to satisfy a sweet tooth, but GLACE NYC is playing an entirely different dessert game. The Upper East Side ice cream shop has turned hot chocolate, toasted marshmallows and wildly creative frozen treats into an Instagram-worthy obsession — proving that sometimes dessert deserves its own reservation.
Founded by Sasha Zabar, part of the family behind New York gourmet institution Zabar’s, GLACE combines French-inspired ice cream craftsmanship with unapologetically indulgent American treats. The result is a neighborhood dessert destination where even ordering hot chocolate feels like an event.
The S’mores Hot Chocolate Everyone Is Talking About
GLACE’s signature S’mores Hot Chocolate is the star of the show. A rich chocolate drink arrives topped with a dramatic marshmallow halo, whipped cream and a toasted finish that looks almost too good to disturb. Almost.
Other creations turn the classic hot chocolate into a full-blown dessert experience, including white chocolate brûlée, cookies and cream, and Ferrero-inspired chocolate hazelnut versions. Expect generous toppings, playful presentations and enough chocolate to make even the most committed dessert minimalist reconsider their position.
When temperatures rise, GLACE switches gears with frozen hot chocolates, house-made soft serve and elaborate sundaes. Seasonal creations have included the Amalfi Lemon Sundae, served inside a frozen lemon with lemon sorbet, frozen yogurt and toasted marshmallow. It’s sweet, tart, refreshing and practically engineered for your social media feed.
Ice Cream With a Gourmet Twist
Beyond the viral drinks, GLACE offers house-made ice cream, sorbets, gluten-free waffle cones and its signature Macwich — an ice cream sandwich tucked between two macarons.
The shop’s menu balances classic flavors with creative combinations, making it equally appealing for a quick afternoon scoop or a full dessert detour.
Where to Find GLACE NYC
GLACE is located at 1266 Madison Avenue between East 90th and 91st Streets on the Upper East Side. The shop is known for its inventive seasonal menu and eye-catching sweets.
For New Yorkers searching for the best hot chocolate and ice cream in NYC, GLACE is a sweet spot worth knowing. Come for the marshmallow halo, stay for the sundaes — and don’t be surprised if dessert becomes the main event.
