Arizona’s Most Nostalgic Ice Cream Shop Has Been Scooping Since the 1950s

With streets filled with new and modern restaurants, trendy bars and clubs, and upscale shopping, Old Town Scottsdale is a popular place for a night out. One of my favorite spots in this part of town, however, is one that's been around since the 1950s. Sugar Bowl is a place that hasn't changed much since it first opened. Aside from that, the cotton-candy pink color throughout is a throwback to decades past, a dose of nostalgia, and a place where you can satisfy your sweet tooth in the most fantastic way possible — with ice cream!

I've only been to Sugar Bowl at night, as we would typically come here after having dinner in the area. Walking up to this iconic diner and ice cream shop, with light pouring through its large windows as those seated at tables and the soda fountain enjoy their desserts, always reminds me of the 1942 Edward Hopper painting, "Nighthawks."

When entering the doors of Sugar Bowl, you can't help but notice how incredibly pink it is inside — it's the same shade of pink as its exterior, with the colorful "Sugar Bowl" sign. The booths, chairs, light fixtures, and even squares on the checkerboard-patterned floor are that 1950s pink that will transport you back in time.

Just like the interior, the menu has remained relatively unchanged since Sugar Bowl opened in 1958, and that's certainly part of its appeal. There aren't too many places like this left! While you can have lunch or dinner here — choosing from options like a tuna melt, a Reuben, peanut butter and jelly, or even meatloaf — it's the ice cream that draws the crowds.

This is always an exciting place to take my kids. Not only is there ice cream, but there is also an arcade room attached to the restaurant. Just walk through the hallway past the restrooms, and you'll find a variety of modern arcade games that spit out tickets that can be traded for prizes. This is obviously not original to Sugar Bowl, but it's a welcome addition for families to enjoy with their ice cream.

Sugar Bowl isn't just a family-friendly place that kids love; it's also a fantastic spot to bring a date for a sweet treat. So, what will you order to satisfy your sweet tooth? My favorite is the Tin Roof Sundae, featuring ice cream covered in chocolate sauce and topped with Spanish peanuts, a generous dollop of whipped cream, and a bright red maraschino cherry. It's divine! But there are plenty of other options, including malts, shakes, ice cream floats, and more. If you feel like having a sundae, choose one from the menu like I usually do, or create your own!

Sugar Bowl in Old Town Scottsdale is a special place and remains a popular spot to visit in town. This landmark restaurant and ice cream shop is both a Founding Business of Scottsdale and is listed on the Historic Preservation Register of Scottsdale. Have you visited this iconic place for some of the best ice cream in Old Town Scottsdale? If not, I urge you to go, especially if you're craving a dose of nostalgia while treating yourself to an ice cream sundae. Visit the Sugar Bowl website for location information and to view a menu.