Lemon Ice King of Corona
Iconic NYC institution serving delicious, dairy-free Italian ices since 1944. A taste of Queens history!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cool down after a hot day
Lemon Ice King of Corona
Best Time
Cool down after a hot day
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic NYC institution serving delicious, dairy-free Italian ices since 1944. A taste of Queens history!
"This spot always delivers: it’s simple, iconic, and unbeatable. "
Bring Cash! 💰
This spot is strictly cash-only. Come prepared to avoid any last-minute scrambles.
One Flavor Per Cup ☝️
You can only choose one flavor per cup, so pick your favorite wisely!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Classic Lemon Ice
Main counter
The iconic, perfectly balanced tart and sweet lemon ice that started it all. A true taste of NYC summer.
Over 40 Flavor Options
Flavor board
From traditional fruit to unique choices like peanut butter, explore a vast array of dairy-free Italian ices.
King of Queens Cameo
Exterior
Spot the iconic storefront featured in the opening credits of the beloved sitcom, 'The King of Queens'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King Here!
Embrace the Walk-Up Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash! 💰
This spot is strictly cash-only. Come prepared to avoid any last-minute scrambles.
One Flavor Per Cup ☝️
You can only choose one flavor per cup, so pick your favorite wisely!
Enjoy in the Park 🌳
No seating on-site, but Flushing Meadows-Corona Park across the street is perfect for enjoying your treat.
Late Night Cravings? 🌙
They're open until midnight, making it a great spot for a late-night sweet treat.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash! 💰
This spot is strictly cash-only. Come prepared to avoid any last-minute scrambles.
One Flavor Per Cup ☝️
You can only choose one flavor per cup, so pick your favorite wisely!
Enjoy in the Park 🌳
No seating on-site, but Flushing Meadows-Corona Park across the street is perfect for enjoying your treat.
Late Night Cravings? 🌙
They're open until midnight, making it a great spot for a late-night sweet treat.
Try the Peanut Butter! 🥜
Beyond fruit, the peanut butter flavor with chunks is a surprisingly delicious and unique option.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
A true NYC institution, The Lemon Ice King of Corona is celebrated for its authentic, dairy-free Italian ices and vast array of flavors. Visitors consistently praise its refreshing taste and nostalgic charm, though some note the cups are small for the price and that it's cash-only. It's a beloved spot that embodies the spirit of summer in Queens. +1
"An absolute NYC classic. Every flavor here hits, but the lemon-lime takes the cake—it’s the perfect balance of tart and sweet. Pro tip: it’s cash only, so come prepared.
Whether it’s a hot summer day, a casual first date, or you just need something to turn a frown upside down, this spot always delivers. There’s a reason it’s been around forever—it’s simple, iconic, and unbeatable."
Daniela Triana
"Located at 52-02 108th Street in Corona, Queens, The Lemon Ice King of Corona has been a beloved institution since 1944. Founded by Nicola Benfaremo and later run by his son Peter, this iconic Italian ice shop has become synonymous with summer in New York City. Its fame even extended to television, featuring in the opening credits of the sitcom The King of Queens.
Authentic Italian Ices
What sets The Lemon Ice King apart is its commitment to traditional, dairy-free Italian ices. Crafted in-house using small-batch churning, these ices achieve a creamy, semi-solid texture without any dairy ingredients. This method results in a smooth, refreshing treat that captures the essence of real fruit flavors.
Flavorful Selections
With over 40 flavors available, there's something for every palate. The classic lemon remains a favorite, offering a balance of tartness and sweetness that refreshes on hot days. Other popular choices include cherry, rainbow, and the uniquely rich peanut butter, which contains chunks of peanuts throughout. It's important to note that mixing flavors isn't permitted, encouraging patrons to savor each flavor individually.
Community and Tradition
Beyond the delightful ices, The Lemon Ice King is a cornerstone of the Corona community. The shop operates from a walk-up window, maintaining a nostalgic charm that harks back to its early days. Across the street, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park offers a perfect spot to enjoy your treat while watching local bocce games, adding to the authentic neighborhood experience.
Final Thoughts
The Lemon Ice King of Corona isn't just a place to grab a frozen treat; it's a slice of New York history. Its dedication to quality, tradition, and community has solidified its status as a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of Queens."
John Gonsalves
"Historic place with homemade Italian Style Ices.
Many Flavors to choose from.
If you ask for a spoon they'll give you one!
Young kids serve you and they are respectful and helpful."
Nicholas Pascale
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Lemon Ice King of Corona is located at 52-02 108th Street, Corona, NY 11368. It's accessible by public transportation, with several bus lines nearby. Parking can be challenging in the area, so consider public transit or ride-sharing.
Parking is often described as difficult, especially during peak hours. It's best to be prepared for a bit of a search or consider alternative transportation.
Many visitors opt for the subway, as it avoids parking hassles. The 7 train is a common route to the Corona area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are required. It's a walk-up window establishment where you order and pay directly.
They are open late, often until midnight, making them a great option for a late-night treat. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's always a good idea to check their social media or call ahead. +1
Yes, it is strictly cash-only. Make sure to bring enough cash to purchase your desired flavors.
Prices range from $3 to $9, depending on the size. Cups are described as a bit small for the price by some visitors.
No, you can only choose one flavor per cup. This encourages patrons to savor each flavor individually.
🎫 🍦 Onsite Experience
The classic lemon ice is a perennial favorite, but strawberry/banana and peanut butter are also highly recommended by visitors.
There is no dedicated seating at the shop itself. Many people take their ice across the street to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park to enjoy.
It's a classic, old-school NYC institution with a nostalgic feel. Expect a busy, lively atmosphere, especially on warm days. +1
Yes, all the Italian ices are dairy-free and made in-house using traditional methods.
Yes, if you ask for a spoon, they will provide one.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the iconic storefront, the colorful array of ice flavors, and the bustling walk-up window. The nearby park also offers scenic backdrops.
Absolutely! Visitors often share photos of their treats and the shop's exterior. It's a popular spot for Instagrammable moments. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Instagrammers & Foodies
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of History: The Lemon Ice King's Legacy
Nicola's son, Peter, continued the legacy, ensuring the shop maintained its commitment to authentic, dairy-free Italian ices. The process involves small-batch churning, creating a creamy, semi-solid texture that's a hallmark of their product. This meticulous approach to crafting their frozen treats is what has kept customers coming back for decades, solidifying its status as a must-visit destination for an authentic taste of Queens.
Beyond the delicious flavors, The Lemon Ice King is deeply woven into the fabric of the Corona community. Its walk-up window and nostalgic charm evoke a simpler time, while the nearby park provides a communal space for enjoyment. It represents a classic New York experience, offering a refreshing escape and a connection to the city's rich cultural heritage.
Navigating the Flavors: A Guide to Your Perfect Ice
It's important to remember that the shop adheres to a strict 'one flavor per cup' policy. This means you'll need to commit to a single flavor for each serving, encouraging a focused appreciation of each distinct taste.
When making your selection, consider the season and your mood. For a truly refreshing experience on a hot day, the fruit-based options are ideal. For something richer and more decadent, the peanut butter or even a chocolate option might be more appealing. Don't hesitate to ask the friendly young staff for recommendations if you're feeling adventurous!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit