Eli’s Ark
Ice cream shop · Chicago
1843 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
About
Located at 1843 W North Ave in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood, Eli’s Ark has become a destination for those seeking a creative twist on traditional gelato. The shop is best known for its signature service: transforming scoops of creamy, unique gelato into adorable, edible animal faces. With a wide variety of designs ranging from koalas and pandas to unicorns and pigs, the shop offers a whimsical experience that appeals to both children and adults. The menu features an array of inventive flavors, including popular choices like ube, tiramisu, and various fruit-forward options, with many selections catering to vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free dietary needs. The shop maintains a 4.7-star rating from hundreds of reviewers who frequently highlight the friendly and attentive nature of the staff. While the popularity of the shop often results in a wait, visitors generally find the experience worthwhile for the combination of high-quality, velvety gelato and the innovative presentation. Inside, the space is designed to be visually engaging, featuring a flower wall that serves as a popular backdrop for photos. Whether guests are looking for a unique treat or a fun outing in the city, Eli’s Ark provides a distinct, memorable approach to dessert that keeps locals and visitors coming back.
Reviews Eli’s Ark
Eli's Ark is a popular Wicker Park gelato shop known for its creative, animal-shaped ice cream decorations and unique, high-quality flavor offerings. While the experience is widely praised for its visual appeal and friendly staff, customers frequently note long wait times due to the shop's popularity.
Strengths
- Creative animal-shaped ice cream
- Unique and delicious gelato flavors
- Friendly and welcoming staff
Weaknesses
- Long wait times
- Limited indoor seating
- Higher price points
Best for
Families, groups, and individuals looking for a visually fun and unique dessert experience in the Wicker Park area.
Opening hours
- Friday
- 3–9 PM
- Monday
- Closed
- Sunday
- 1–8 PM
- Tuesday
- 3–9 PM
- Saturday
- 1–9 PM
- Thursday
- 3–9 PM
- Wednesday
- 3–9 PM
Contact
- 1843 W North Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
- (773) 687-9072