i'll have a scoop of...

ICE CREAM! Ice cream season has officially begun and there are several places where you can get your vegan ice cream fix here in Philadelphia.

Now, first, I must introduce you to Klein's. This Kosher ice cream company makes the best vegan ice cream around in regards to both flavor and texture. This stuff is not all-natural or healthy or organic. Just delicious.

Franklin Fountain (116 Market St.) now carries Klein's soy flavors. It looks like they always have chocolate and vanilla on hand, and sometimes mint chocolate chip if you're lucky.

You can also get Klein's soy goodness at Govinda's Gourmet to Go (Broad and South), but nothing fancy like a milkshake. Just a small or large container. The benefit of going to Govinda's is that they usually have at least 4 or 5 very fancy flavors to choose from, but definitely call ahead because sometimes they run out.

Sketch, (413 E. Girard) a burger place in fishtown, offers a soy milkshake to go with your huge burger. But, I can't say that I've tried or asked about it yet. I just know that it exists. I do highly recommend their huge homemade vegan burger, though.

I've heard that Cafe Grindstone (622 S. 5th) has vegan milkshakes, but I have yet to investigate this rumor. Supposedly they also have vegan sandwiches. I should put this place at the top of my list.

B2 (1500 E. Passyunk) has vegan soft serve. Vanilla only. I'm not a huge fan, but a lot of people seem to like it. So check it out.

Last night, a friend and I checked out the brand new South Philly Capogiro location. It is so nice not to have to trek to Center City to get my icy treat fix anymore! Even though it isn't ice cream, Capogiro's sorbet is really good. Really, really good. They always have interesting flavors, and the friendly staff is more than happy to give you samples until you figure out what you'd like. I feel like I'm not even missing out when I get a scoop of that artisanal fruity goodness.