Winner: J. P. Licks
J. P. Licks is such a hometown institution that when shortstop Nomar Garciaparra left the Red Sox for Chicago, it renamed the Cherry Garciaparra ice cream Cherry Ortiz — and left Nomar's name crossed out on the menu as a warning to potential defectors. Founded in Jamaica Plain, Licks now has eight locations around Boston. There are more than 20 flavors of ice cream at every store, plus sorbets, lactose-free flavors, and even the Moolatta, the J. P. Licks take on the ubiquitous frozen coffee drink.
311 Harvard St.
Brookline (Coolidge Corner)
617-738-8252
Runner up: Cold Stone Creamery, 201 Brookline Ave. (in the Landmark Center), Boston, 617-266-2653
Third place: Angora Café, 1024 Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-232-1757
Pizza | French Fries | Sushi | Burrito | Burger | Ice cream | Coffee | Place to Dine on Parents' Dime | Late Night Eats | Place to Go on a First Date | Open Mic Club | Karaoke | Live Music Club | Dance Club | Place to Watch a Game | Place to Buy Dorm Gear | Place to Buy Sneakers | Place to Buy Vintage Clothes | Hair Salon | Place for a First Kiss | Spot for Wi-fi Access | Day Trip by Public Transport | Bike Ride and Jogging Route | Place to Study | Place to People-Watch