In a world that has a plethora of frozen treats to satisfy every sweet tooth craving, ice cream still prevails as the top choice for yummy, cold eats. Every true ice cream lover has their favourite ice cream shop but for Torontonians, the options seem endless. Whether you’re searching for options while hanging out at the beaches, or indulging while walking through downtown, you’re bound to find a place to grab a cone. And while the debate on what the best option truly is still rages on, there’s no doubt that Sweet Jesus is definitely a contender.
Photo by Amanda Marsh
I’m a strong believer that ice cream doesn’t have to be a seasonal treat. But there’s no denying a cold cone on a hot day is one of the most quintessential summer things. So, when I was planning a day trip to Toronto, and I knew it was going to be a scorcher, I had ice cream on my mind. Through Instagram I came across the account of Sweet Jesus. Being one who’s always down to try trendy new places, after one quick scroll I was sold.
Located on John Street, between King and Adelaide, Sweet Jesus describes themselves as an edgy ice cream parlour. After one step in the door, you’ll understand why. The shop is decorated with industrial-style decor from floor to ceiling. The large hanging lights and wood panelled ceiling definitely help give off the edgy vibe. This ice cream shop is the perfect blend of modern edge, but still vintage enough to make you reminisce about the ice cream parlours you’re too young to even remember.
Another visual landmark of this location is the long line you’re sure to see winding out the door. This may seem intimidating, and might persuade you to turn around, but stick it out and you won’t be disappointed. A server will usually bring menus to those waiting in line. Since everyone knows what they want before they get inside, the line moves faster than you’d expect.
It’s a good thing they give customers a long time with the menu, because the flavours are sure to leave you indecisive. Nowadays it seem like crazy ice cream flavours are the new normal, but Sweet Jesus has stuck to using delicious toppings to stand out in the crowd. The menu’s most enticing feature is their specialty soft serve. These are big cones of chocolate, vanilla or toasted marshmallow soft-serve piled high with drool-worthy toppings.
If sweet is your style, you could give Krusty the Kone a try. It’s vanilla soft serve topped with cotton candy and sprinkles. Sounds to me like the tastiest parts of a carnival in a cone. Sweet Jesus has even created the classic PB&J sandwich ice cream cone. Vanilla soft serve, peanut butter sauce, strawberry jam, and toast is your middle school lunch reinvented into dessert.
Photo courtesy of @ccarmen_ on Instagram
The list of specialty cones they offer is insane, there’s something for every chocolate, candy or sour lover. Their cones are so recognizable that one stranger, deep in a conversation on her cell phone, suddenly turned to me with a look of envy and said, “OMG is that Sweet Jesus?” I like to think her phone call was something important but the allure of Sweet Jesus just became too overpowering of a distraction.
If you’re looking for a cone that’s a little smaller, and cheaper, they offer their soft serve flavours by themselves. Treat yourself to a cone of burnt marshmallow, chocolate, vanilla, or raspberry lemonade ice cream. If you want something a little different, try one of their famous paletas, which is a Mexican-style popsicle or one of their chocolatey lattes if it’s one of those not-so-rare cold Toronto summer days. Whatever your dessert desires are Sweet Jesus is the spot to satisfy them, right in the heart of the entertainment district.