Sweet Janes: Sweet Find in Astoria

On our recent food excursion to find some new vegan restaurants, I stumbled upon a delightful "Sweetery" in Queens whose ice cream will awaken your tastebuds and have you comin' back for more.  Sweet Janes on 24th Avenue in Astoria was the most recent visit for the Travelin' Cousins for an after dinner treat.

With the takeover and popularity of the well-known ice cream chains and their processed goods, it was pure heaven to indulge in the natural goodness of homemade iced treats, with a superior taste and exceptional texture.

Spotting the striped awning and colorful shop, Tanya and I along with all four kids, excitedly barged into this intimate little neighborhood spot, making a noticeable entrance. What we found was something for everyone with a sweet tooth. Traditional ice cream, dairy-free ice cream and sorbet as well as gluten free options, all in an offering of unique flavors.  

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The manager, Chris, was as welcoming as could be, guiding us through a tasting adventure and giving us a brief history of this little gem.  Opened this past Spring, Sweet Jane's has been embraced by its Astoria neighborhood and I'm betting it's because of the freshness and yumminess of their frozen desserts.  All of the dairy free and gluten free are made on premises and all products -  ice creams, ices and sorbets are all-natural and contain no corn syrup, and Non-GMO.

Dairy free was the preference for Tanya and her kiddies, as these are coconut-based, almond-based and soy-based, depending on the flavor. Dominic dove right in with savory scoops, selecting gingerbread and pumpkin, while Cosette didn't take much time deciding on the sweet dairy-free Chocolate Brownie.  Tanya took the longest with her decision which is perfectly understandable considering that there are over 20 non-dairy flavors to choose from including intriguing flavors like Strawberry Balsamic Vinegar and Mango Basil. She eventually settled on Banana Chocolate Chip.

My group was a little more decadent and went traditional ice cream all the way!  With more than two dozen flavors, Gianna and Kelsey both chose Birthday Cake. This is their "usual" when going to some of those well-known ice cream chains.  Let me tell you that hands-down, there was absolutely no comparison.

In fact, tasting Sweet Janes Birthday Cake formula will forever make it impossible for my girls to enjoy the processed taste elsewhere. Naturally sweetened and creamier, the pieces of cake were soft and fresh, as well as the small pieces of what tasted like fondant.  

Now, I decided pretty quickly as I went with my first instinct - Raspberry Chip.  It was scrumptious!! A smooth tartness combined with dark chocolately sweetness, I was tempted to order another scoop! After a quick taste, both of my girls' eyes opened wide with delight! I know what flavors they will be trying next visit!

So, what else can you expect from Sweet Janes?  Well, their flavors change every season, so be sure to check the website for updated flavors.  They also have geared up for the colder weather with Hot Chocolates, Hot Cider and Homemade soups! Ask for a tasting sample when you visit of the day's special soup.  Waffles with a variety of toppings round out their current menu.

I give this place a thumbs up and will be heading back in the near future to try some more of their flavors.

According to Jane, the founder and owner, "it doesn't have to be bad to be good" and I couldn't agree more!

For Your Reference
Sweet Janes Frozen Desserts
27-17 24th Avenue,
Astoria, NY 11102
(bet. 27&28th St.)
(347) 507-0456
www.sweet-janes.com
Menu