Pink Spot

For a city with no shortage of hot weather and spicy food, Phoenix often seems lacking in good quality independent places for ice cream, frozen yogurt, and gelato. On a 110-degree July day, a frozen treat is often one of the few appealing deserts, but until recently the options have been limited to either chain operations or old-school ice cream parlors such as Mary Coyle, MacApline's, and the Sugar Bowl. Fortunately, 2008 has ushered in a wave of new shops serving all types of icy treats. Chill fills the niche in Tempe, Sweet Republic does its part in north Scottsdale, and Pink Spot now brings its cold comfort to Midtown, just two blocks west of the Thomas / Central Avenue station.

Pink Spot is under the same ownership as the adjacent Z Pizza franchise, a restaurant that has a steady record of community involvement despite being part of a national chain. Although the businesses are distinct, they are connected inside, making it easy to enjoy every kid's dream: a meal of pizza and ice cream. There are even high chairs available for the most junior ice cream enthusiasts. Adults should be reassured, though. There's plenty at Pink Spot for more mature taste buds. As the shop's name suggests, the decor emphasizes pink, and the overall look is cheerful, clean, and welcoming.

Pink Spot serves Lappert's, a brand of ice cream produced in California but based on the Lappert's brand of Kauai. This ice cream is no low-fat froyo or airy gelato. It's hefty, high butterfat ice cream. Since the ice cream is not made on site, the artisan touch of Arlecchino Gelateria should not be expected, but the ice cream is dependably good and the flavor selection always interesting. Each day brings not only several decadent ice cream flavors, but also a selection of sorbets or other lighter choices.

The Hawaiian influence shows in flavors like Kona Mocha Chip, one of the standouts in a rotating assortment of flavors. The Casablanca date ice cream (center photo below) is also particularly good; the flavor suggests a tropical environment, even if date palms are not usually associated with the Pacific. The typical cups and cones area available, but there are also some signature sundaes. Kona Mocha Mint (right photo below) combines coffee and mint flavors in an unexpectedly harmonious blend. There are also shakes, malts, floats, coffee, baked goods, and even green tea smoothies. Pink Spot is open seven days a week starting at 6:00 AM and offers free wi-fi for those who want to enjoy some ice cream or a cappuccino while catching up online.

49 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, AZ, 85013
(602) 265-3889
http://www.pinkspoticecream.com

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