
About The Franklin Fountain
Bow-tie-wearing staff dispense classic ice cream parlor/soda fountain treats in an old-timey space.
What People Are Saying
from Google & Yelp"Ice cream - 5/5 Service - 4/5 Atmosphere- 4/5 I really loved the ice cream BUT like much or the reviews said the experience was a bit over-hyped. There is no indoor seating and it is difficult to actually interact and watch the bow-tied server concoct your concoctions. I would recommend going if you are in the area but it probably isn’t worth going out of your way just for the ice cream. There are plenty of other high-end artisanal ice cream shops in Philly. It’s cute and kitsch and the serving are huge but it isn’t a must visit while in town."
"I visited after seeing this place featured on the Cooking Channel, where they highlighted the New York Egg Cream made from the old-style fountain. I came specifically for that and was very happy. The brownie was also delicious. The restaurant has an old-fashioned feel, and no indoor seating."
"Food- 5/5 Service- 4/5 Ambiance- 4/5 Drinks- 5/5 (milkshakes) Value- 3/5 A Sweet Step Back in Time at Franklin Fountain Franklin Fountain in Old City Philadelphia is more than just an ice cream shop – it's a delightful dip into history with a side of truly delicious, hand-crafted ice cream. From the moment you step inside, you're transported by the charmingly old-fashioned decor, packed with historical artifacts that add a unique flavor to the experience. The ice cream itself is the star of the show. With a good array of flavor options, it's clear that care and quality go into each batch. The "hand-crafted" description isn't just a label; the rich and satisfying taste speaks for itself. Be prepared for a bit of a wait! On our visit, there was a line of about 15 people ahead of us, and it continued to grow behind us. This popularity speaks to the quality of their offerings, but it's something to keep in mind if you're on a tight schedule. While the ice cream was undeniably good and the historical ambiance added to the enjoyment, I wouldn't necessarily make a special trip just for Franklin Fountain. However, if you find yourself exploring the historical wonders of Old City, a stop here for a sweet treat is an absolute must. It's a lovely way to cap off a day of sightseeing and indulge in a taste of the past. Overall: Delicious, hand-crafted ice cream in a uniquely historical setting. Worth the wait if you're in the area!"
"The ice cream was ok, thought it would be something amazing being they have such a long history there. Not much space in this corner lot. There are only a few customers that are allowed inside at one time and ifs the summer you have the close the door behind you to keep the AC from escaping. Your ice cream is served in a take out box. There is no seating inside, only outside seating."
"If you look at the reviews for this place and the photos online you’re thinking you’re about to have the best experience and ice cream sunday or banana split of your life. Not the case. Rather your wooed by the ambience and old-fashioned atmosphere, the signs for the homemade whipped cream, house made sodas etc….and then you get your order. My “banana split for my baby” didn’t have one singular slice of banana in it, not one spanish peanut, was drowning in store-bought whipped cream and had two cherries on it (which were not listed as a part of it on the menu). My husband’s hot fudge Sunday was below average and overall we spent $32 😱 on two items. Wish the product lived up to the overall cool vibe of the place. I loved the phone (that still works) and all the old school knickknacks. Maybe next time we’ll stick with a waffle cone and flavored ice cream."
"We came in for some hot chocolate for the kids. It was very rich and actually our kids didn't like it because it didn't taste like the normal powder kind,..."
Hours
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