As You Like It

In the borough of Raritan, New Jersey, there’s a local institution that has been serving up sweet memories for decades: As You Like It Ice Cream. For many residents of Somerset County, this shop is not just a place to get dessert; it's a neighborhood staple with a rich history and a strong sense of community. Having served the area for over 40 years, As You Like It has become a cherished part of the local landscape, a place where generations have gathered for a simple, classic treat. The shop prides itself on being the kind of neighborhood spot that people have come to know and love, offering a straightforward and satisfying ice cream experience. While the ice cream scene in New Jersey has become increasingly competitive with the rise of many new and trendy spots, As You Like It holds its own by sticking to what it does best: providing classic, high-quality ice cream that stands the test of time.

As You Like It is celebrated by many for its dedication to classic flavors and a nostalgic feel. A customer review highlights this perfectly, stating that the shop offers "the best ice cream in the area—especially if you love classic flavors like vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate!" For fans of these timeless tastes, the shop is a consistent and reliable source of "heavenly" scoops. This focus on getting the basics right is a major draw for a segment of the local population who appreciate a well-executed classic over a fleeting trend. The shop's legacy is further supported by a report from Patch, which describes the business as a family-run operation that maintains an "old-school ice cream store" feel, offering a variety of treats including hard ice cream, soft ice cream, yogurt, ice cream cakes, and sandwiches. This continuity in ownership and approach is a testament to their commitment to their roots and the community they serve.

However, it is important to note that public opinion is not monolithic, and experiences can vary. A different customer review offers a contrasting view, expressing disappointment with the hard ice cream's quality and flavor selection, even suggesting it tasted "freezer burned" and was inferior to other local options. This review, which also mentioned a decline in quality compared to the "old owners," highlights that while the shop has a strong base of loyal fans, it may not appeal to everyone, particularly those seeking more innovative or a different texture of hard ice cream. On the other hand, the same reviewer did state that the soft ice cream "still tastes the same as the old owners," suggesting a more consistent experience with that particular offering. This variety of feedback showcases the diverse tastes within the local community and the different expectations people have from their favorite ice cream shops.

As You Like It is located at 62 W Somerset St, Raritan, NJ 08869, USA. This address places it at a very accessible and central point in Raritan, right on the corner of Wall Street and W. Somerset Street. The shop's official website provides detailed directions for those coming from different routes, including Route 202 and Route 206, making it easy to find for both locals and those traveling from nearby towns like Bridgewater and Somerville. Being situated on a main street within the borough means it's a convenient stop for a quick dessert after dinner at a local restaurant or a perfect post-game treat for a local sports team. The location on a corner also makes it highly visible, and its long-standing presence ensures that it is a well-known landmark for anyone in the area. This accessibility is a key reason why it remains a go-to spot for so many residents.

The services offered at As You Like It cater to a wide range of preferences, focusing on classic ice cream parlor offerings.

• Hard Ice Cream: They carry 24 flavors of premium hard ice cream, with a focus on classic and seasonal options. Flavors can range from traditional staples to more creative ones like maple bourbon pecan.
• Soft-Serve Ice Cream and Yogurt: They offer fresh vanilla, chocolate, and twist soft-serve, as well as soft-serve nonfat frozen yogurt, and a no-sugar-added option.
• Ice Cream Cakes: All cakes are made on-site and can be ordered in standard vanilla and chocolate, or a combination of any available flavors, making them a popular choice for birthdays and celebrations.
• Cones, Cups, and Sundaes: The shop serves ice cream in classic cones and cups, and creates traditional sundaes, banana splits, and milkshakes.
• Other Novelties: The menu also includes novelties like ice cream sandwiches, floats, and egg creams, providing a variety of choices for customers.
• Gift Cards: For those looking for a perfect gift for an ice cream lover, gift cards and certificates are available for purchase.

This comprehensive menu demonstrates the shop’s commitment to providing a full, classic ice cream parlor experience.

Several features and highlights contribute to As You Like It's status as a local favorite.

• Longstanding Community Presence: The shop has been a fixture in Raritan for over 40 years, creating a sense of history and nostalgia for many residents.
• Focus on Classic Flavors: For fans of traditional tastes like vanilla and chocolate, the shop is praised for the quality and deliciousness of its classic hard ice cream.
• In-House Ice Cream Cakes: The fact that all ice cream cakes are made on-site is a significant highlight, offering a fresh and customizable option for special occasions.
• Variety of Offerings: Beyond hard ice cream, the availability of soft-serve, nonfat yogurt, and other treats ensures that there is something for everyone, including those with specific dietary needs like no-sugar-added options.
• Family-Owned and Operated: The business is described as a family affair, which contributes to the old-school, neighborhood feel and personal touch that many locals appreciate.

These features help explain why the shop has endured for so long and remains a point of local pride.

For those planning a visit or needing to get in touch, here is the essential contact information for As You Like It.

Address: 62 W Somerset St, Raritan, NJ 08869, USA

Phone: (908) 526-9010

The shop also maintains a website and social media presence, which customers can use to stay updated on flavors and hours.

In conclusion, As You Like It is a cherished part of the Raritan community and a suitable choice for locals for a variety of reasons. For many, it represents the best of a traditional, classic ice cream parlor, a place where the simple joys of a perfectly made vanilla or chocolate cone can be savored. The long-standing history, family ownership, and commitment to providing a welcoming, neighborhood-style experience make it a special place for residents. While opinions on specific products may vary, the shop's enduring popularity and loyal customer base are a testament to its overall value as a local institution. It's a place where families can continue a tradition, friends can meet for a casual treat, and everyone can enjoy a taste of local history. For anyone in the New Jersey region seeking a nostalgic and reliable ice cream experience, As You Like It is an ideal destination. It's a place that truly lives up to its name, allowing customers to enjoy their ice cream, "as you like it."

As You Like It

62 W Somerset St, Raritan, NJ 08869, USA