Tony's Ice Cream
Gastonia, NC • ★ 4.6 (3973 Google reviews)
The Story
The scent of sugar and smiles fills the air the moment you step inside, a sweet echo of simpler times. Generations have gathered here, drawn by the vibrant hum of happy chatter and the promise of a perfect scoop. Each creamy, homemade flavor is a little taste of yesteryear, best enjoyed with good company in this beloved old-fashioned haven.
From the Counter
Recent Google reviews
I L Perez - El Reseñero
★ 3 • 2 months ago
Tony's Ice Cream is a total mid-century time capsule of flavors and history, and a clear multi-generational favorite for local parents and kids. The staff is incredibly nice, and the vibe is completely raw and authentic. The food from the grill is nothing to write home about (the bologna was thick but the flavors were basic and underwhelming), but the homemade ice cream saves the day. The Butter Pecan milkshake was great, complete with their signature massive scoop packed right on top of the rim with no lid. It’s a gritty, nostalgic landmark that’s absolutely worth visiting for the shakes alone.
D 28092
★ 5 • 6 months ago
February 2026...As in every year I can recall for decades, today Tony's Ice Cream delivered great service and fantastic food. The photos will tell the story better than I can. You'll see a massive hot fudge cake, some fresh hot fries, and a Lemon milkshake. Fries ...fresh, hot, crisp shoestring fries, perfect for swiping thru your ice cream... Shake... My very first in this flavor. I usually go for the butter pecan, or black walnut. Why not try something new, I said... And, just like when I tried the grape, its a great choice. Creamy, light lemon flavor hits just right. Fudge Cake...Good cake . I had one made with traditional vanilla, and one eirh peanut butter ripple. Both were sandwiched between devils food layers, covered in thick hot fudge, and topped with whipped cream and a cherry. I can't see how these can get better. Ive felt the same for 50+ years, now. Someday they may disappoint...not today.
J-Kube
★ 5 • 5 months ago
You can not go wrong with this Gastonia Staple business! Have been coming here for 20+ years. Do not live nearby anymore but was passing through the “Gashouse” and had to take my kid to check out the milkshakes! Let’s just say she Approves! 💯 thank you!
Greg Mazza
★ 5 • 9 months ago
Due to many recommendations I went to Tony’s for lunch last Saturday. For this visit I stuck to food (ice cream next visit) : - people had told me that the hot dog is the thing to get. There actually is quite a big menu but I stuck with the hot dog. Added onion rings for side - the girl at the counter gave a wink and “good choice” for that … - overall it was far better than expected. Yes - hot dog was good. Some for the sweet and crispy onion rings. It was a good choice ! - loved the old school vibe. Looks like it’s rhe same since the 60s. And of course some local characters enjoying lunch as well - highly recommend based on this visit. - ice cream review coming soon.
