Ice Cream at Emack & Bolio’s

On the coldest days of winter, ice cream may not be the first snack that comes to mind, but last Wednesday, despite the February wind, some friends and I headed out to Albany after class to Emack & Bolio’s for some ice cream and sweets.

Emack & Bolio’s began when a music lawyer created some ice cream with some famous musicians, and now over 30 years later there are over 25 locations across the country.

One location is on the corner of Delaware Avenue and Marshall Street in Albany and stands out when driving down the road.

The small white building looks as though it’s meant to be near the beach with a Cape Cod, cottage house design.

Among the townhouses, the white picket fence around the building creates a very inviting atmosphere.

Upon entering the building, the counter is filled with sweets. The wall marks the unique ice cream flavors, such as “Deep Purple Cow” and “Twisted Dee-Light,” yogurts and smoothies, and both hot and cold drinks.

Next to the register, a case of baked treats, including mini-cheesecakes and brownies tempt a sweet tooth.

For chocolate lovers, Emack & Bolio’s has a case filled with hand dipped chocolates, which include chocolate covered Rice Krispy treats and Nutella cups.

For anyone looking for a delicious sweet after class, the shop is a short 15 minute drive away from campus.

Between the four of us that ventured there, we all found something to enjoy.

“Chocolate Moose,” a flavor for the chocolate lovers is made with chocolate liqueur, cocoa, and imported chocolate that creates a dark chocolate looking ice cream.

“Grasshopper Pie,” a flavor made with crème de menthe liqueur, Oreos, and chocolate flakes is a delicious green ice cream that is similar to a mint chocolate chip ice cream, only better.

A great combination between “Mud Pie,” a flavor made with java ice cream, Oreos, and chocolate flakes and “Cosmic Crunch,” a flavor with vanilla ice cream, caramel swirl, chocolate chips, walnuts, and cookies, was the favorite amongst all the ice cream flavors we had.

We also tried the “Passion Fruit” sorbet and a Strawberry Shortcake cake bar.

Overall the experience was enjoyable, even with our unique tastes.

For music lovers, Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. all year round, live music can be heard from both the indoor and outdoor stages. There is also an open mike night Tuesdays at 7 p.m.

For free Wi-Fi, friendly service, and delicious sweets, Emack & Bolio’s is a great spot to hang by the fireplace in the winter or sit outside on the garden patio on the warmer days.