It might seem ridiculous to talk about ice cream on the first day of fall. But Morgenstern's "New American Ice Cream Parlor"  is so special, it defies seasonal logic. 

Start with the inexplicably clean, retro-styled interiors. Then the preternaturally friendly staff in paper hats who discuss your ice cream selection as seriously as a second mortgage. Fast forward to the maker of your cone or cup, who places your scoop with scientific precision. 

Then, the ice cream. Ahh, the ice cream. The consistency is perfect, creamy yet firm. Each unique flavor (I've tried four at this point) is packed with unusual intensity, at times almost uncomfortably real. But in this strangeness comes a kind of kind of joy...

If I'm making this sound like a mystical experience, it's because it kind of is. Next time you're in the Lower East Side, check it out. You won't be disappointed.

Banana Curry

Cardamom Fig Jam

Burnt Honey

Szechuan Peppercorn Chocolate