Ed's Real Scoop

What is Ed's Real Scoop? Stationed at 2224 Queen Street East since 2000, Ed's Real Scoop is the original anchor of Toronto's small-batch ice cream scene. Founded by Ed Francis in The Beach, the bright, retro-leaning storefront features glass-front dipping cabinets, hand-chalked rotation boards, and sweet aromas from freshly pressed waffle cones. Indoor seating is sparse with a couple of bench perches, meaning most patrons take their scoops to go for a stroll down toward Kew Gardens and the boardwalk.

Ed's Real Scoop Menu & What to Order Everything is churned on-site, spanning rich ice creams, dense Italian gelatos, and dairy-free sorbets. The legendary Burnt Marshmallow—capturing the caramelized, slightly charred smokiness of an open campfire—remains the essential order, alongside the rich Tanzanian Dark Chocolate Gelato and nutty Sicilian Pistachio. Freshly assembled ice cream cookie sandwiches and scoops paired with house espresso are staples, while fruit-packed mango and lemon sorbets provide first-rate vegan choices.

Know Before You Go Expect counter service with brisk walk-up ordering, though summer nights and sunny weekend afternoons routinely generate queues out onto the sidewalk. Street parking along Queen East is tight; riding the 501 Queen streetcar right to the shop's doorstep is the easiest transit option. The scoop shop operates daily from 11:30 a.m., staying open until 11:00 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.