There is always room for Dessert - the Jersey City Version

From the "holy grails" of ice cream to hidden chocolate boutiques, here is our guide to the best dessert shops in JC.

1. Torico Ice Cream

You can’t call yourself a JC parent until you’ve stood in the Torico line on a Saturday.

The Vibe: Pure nostalgia. It’s loud, busy, and the ultimate reward for a good report card or a successful potty-training day.

What to Order: Ube or Coconut, they are famous for their tropical flavors for a reason. For our kiddos, a small cup of Banana (it actually tastes like real fruit!) will brighten their days

Mom Hack: The line looks intimidating, but it moves fast. Take your scoops two blocks over to City Hall to let the kids run around the fountain while you eat.

2. Dulce de Leche Bakery

This Argentinian bakery is my go-to when I need to pick up a birthday cake or just a "we survived the week" treat.

The Vibe: Always humming. It feels like a bustling neighborhood hub where everyone knows each other.

What to Order: A Factura, a Cortado, The Churros with Dulce de Leche. Warning: these will result in sticky fingers, so bring extra wipes!

Mom Hack: It’s located in the Heights, but worth the trip. Grab a box of assorted pastries so you have breakfast sorted for the next morning.

3. L'atelier du Chocolat

This is where I go when I need a "Mommy Timeout." It feels like stepping into a little piece of Paris.

The Vibe: Quiet, elegant, and smells like heaven.

What to Order: a selection of their Hand-Painted Bonbons or the Salted Caramel Tart.

Mom Hack: This is a "look with your eyes, not your hands" kind of shop. Best for kids who are content in their strollers or older kids who can handle a fancy boutique.

4. Milk Shake Factory

The new kid on the block in Downtown JC, and it is a total "cool mom" destination.

The Vibe: Sleek, modern, and very "New York City."

What to Order: The Midnight Resse's, Gourmet Hot Cocoa. and a Classic Strawberry Shake.

Mom Hack: These shakes are huge. One shake plus two straws equals a very happy (and shared) experience for siblings.

5. Buongiorno Gelateria d’italia 1972

When you want to pretend you're on a Roman holiday instead of on the Newark Ave Plaza.

The Vibe: High-end Italian vibes with incredibly authentic gelato.

What to Order: Pistachio, Stracciatella and Sorbetto (it’s dairy-free and vibrates with fruit flavor).

Mom Hack: They have great seating right on the pedestrian plaza, which is the safest place for a toddler to "roam" while you finish your cone.

6. The Hidden Gem: Tart-Da

If you want something unique that isn't just another scoop of chocolate, this is your spot.

The Vibe: Artisanal and cozy.

What to Order: The Signature Egg Tart: The crust is unbelievably flaky. The Classic Custard Tart: it’s like a little handheld pie.

Mom Hack: These are the perfect "park snacks." They aren't as messy as melting ice cream, making them great for a walk over to Van Vorst Park.

7. Mango Mango

A fruit-forward dessert house that feels refreshing rather than heavy.

The Vibe: Clean, bright, and great for a sit-down treat.

What to Order: Mango Pancake (it’s more like a crepe wrap) or the Mango Pomelo Sago.

Mom Hack: If your kid is picky about textures, the mango ice cream here is some of the smoothest in the city.