Last week, the New York Times reported a rise in shaved ice, a refreshing, summery treat loved around the globe. Denver’s icy offerings (which are more of the Italian ice and snow cone variety) are more limited than New York’s, but they’re still tasty.

Along with the raspados carts that dot Federal Boulevard, those looking to cool off can head to Marco’s Coal-Fired Pizzeria for Italian ice (a sorbet-like frozen dessert). Owner Mark Dym just added four flavors to the menu—the zesty lemon is the most popular, but also look for cherry, chocolate, and the kid-friendly rainbow (a mix of lemon, cherry, and blue raspberry).

Just off Santa Fe Drive, Interstate Kitchen & Bar takes its ice seriously. The bar crew turns out frosty mint juleps, fruit-flavored “torpedos” from the slushie machine (mixed with vodka), and snow cones in adult flavors such as the bourbon Manhattan. They also freeze pans of water so as to hand-chip ice chunks—which co-owner Joey Newman calls “whiskey diamonds”—for those ordering whiskey on the rocks.

Last summer, we hit up the New Orleans SnoBall Shack on the 16th Street Mall, but it’s nearly July and we’re still waiting for it to appear. Stay tuned.

Marco’s Coal-Fired Pizzeria, 2129 Larimer St., 303-296-7000

Interstate Kitchen & Bar, 901 W. 10th Ave., 720-479-8829

Amanda M. Faison
Amanda M. Faison
Freelance writer Amanda M. Faison spent 20 years at 5280 Magazine, 12 of those as Food Editor.