Big Dip - Syracuse

Let's start with the basics: impeccably clean? Check. Friendly staff? Check. Fair prices? Check. Generous portions? Check. Ample parking? Check. Family-friendly picnic tables and a grassy area away from the road? Check. Excellent music at a perfect volume and a fun atmosphere? Check, check, check! Now, let’s talk about their selection and specials. On my first visit, I decided to keep it simple with a banana malt—akin to a perfect 135-yard wedge shot onto the green. The manager, Christie, certainly made it a memorable experience. The vanilla soft serve was incredibly smooth and creamy, with no ice crystals or gritty texture to be found. Many places cut corners in making ice cream by introducing extra air into the mix, a process known as "overrun." The vanilla base at The Big Dip, however, was dense and wonderfully consistent. Once you nail that aspect, everything else falls into place. The combination of Carnation Malted Milk Powder and fresh ripe bananas was just right, providing a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. After three sales talks, a quick 20-minute snack in the Wegman's parking lot, and a hearty dinner at Heid's (2 Hofmann Franks, 2 Coneys, fried pickles, and a Diet Dr. Pepper), I was ready for round two at The Big Dip. I showed up just after opening and took my place in line, feeling a palpable sense of excitement as the queue grew. Fortunately, a second window opened up, making the line move quickly. Sisters Jacquie and Alli were at the two windows, serving up frozen treats faster than you can say "six-dollar White Claws" at the New York State Fair, all under the watchful eye of Peter “See You at The Clipper” P. But I digress. I decided to order the chocolate peanut butter overload sundae and a dairy-free Dole Whip for later, especially to help settle my stomach. The sundae was the ice cream equivalent of a challenging 225-yard shot over water to a narrow landing area, and it was absolutely delightful, made with Hershey's ice cream packed with rich chocolate and peanut butter flavor. Anyone who loves this classic combination should make a beeline to The Big Dip to indulge in this masterpiece. It had an incredible mouthfeel, and the layers of flavor danced on my palate. I was so full I didn’t even get to try the Dole Whip; instead, I shared it with a new friend I made later that evening at the bar of the Americas Best Value Inn on Collamer Road, and they happily enjoyed it in a couple of gulps. What can I say? I once went to Plank Road Ice Cream and can’t even recall what I had—it was that forgettable. Effee's Frozen Treats is also a great stop if you find yourself in Warrenton, Virginia. Sure, you could go to Dairy Queen for a Brownie Batter Blizzard, but why not skip that and head straight to The Big Dip? You’ll be rewarded with an unbeatable combination of taste, quality, freshness, and value!

This is always a fantastic spot for ice cream. The service is friendly and quick, and there’s a wide variety of ice cream options to choose from!

Always big ice love this place they have found best taste combinations ever. Great people friendly and polite

We visited to purchase several T-shirts in various sizes and colors. The staff member was incredibly patient and friendly. We will definitely be returning for ice cream!

Great ice cream!! Great prices!! This place is the spot on a hot day!