Hovermale's Tastes Best

For generations of residents in Fort Washington, Maryland, Hovermale's Tastes Best is more than just a place to grab a bite or a sweet treat; it's a cherished local landmark that evokes a delightful sense of nostalgia. Since 1954, this casual ice cream shop and food stand has been a cornerstone of the community in Prince George's County, offering a unique blend of classic American fare and beloved frozen desserts. It's a place where tradition holds strong, from its straightforward menu to its cash-only policy, providing a charming "throwback to the 90s" experience, and even further back to its mid-century roots.

Hovermale's Tastes Best has cultivated a loyal following by consistently delivering on its promise of simple, delicious food and refreshing ice cream at very reasonable prices. Families have been taking their children here for years, making it a multi-generational tradition to enjoy a light dinner before indulging in a creamy soft-serve. The atmosphere is unpretentious and inviting, centered around the outdoor experience of enjoying your meal on the grassy area with "stumps" for seating. While popular, leading to "sometimes a long line," customers consistently note that the line "always moves quickly," a testament to their efficient service. For anyone in Fort Washington or the surrounding DMV area looking for a taste of authentic Americana and reliably good food, Hovermale's Tastes Best offers an experience that is both satisfying and delightfully memorable.

Hovermale's Tastes Best is conveniently situated at 9011 Livingston Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744, USA. This accessible location in Fort Washington makes it an easy destination for residents throughout Prince George's County and beyond, including those from nearby areas like Oxon Hill, Clinton, or even parts of Washington D.C. Livingston Road is a well-known artery, ensuring that finding the shop is straightforward whether you're driving from within the community or from further afield.

A key aspect of its accessibility is the availability of parking. Customers consistently mention that it's "always easy to find a parking spot," which is a significant convenience, especially during peak hours. This ensures a hassle-free visit, allowing patrons to quickly get their treats and find a comfortable spot. The outdoor seating arrangement, utilizing picnic tables or "stumps in the grassy area behind the parking lot," contributes to a relaxed and informal atmosphere. While the shop itself operates as a walk-up stand, its design and ample outdoor space make it very accommodating for families, groups, and even those with pets, as it is noted to be a pet-friendly establishment. The focus on efficiency, even with long lines, further enhances its accessibility, ensuring a relatively quick and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Hovermale's Tastes Best offers a straightforward yet satisfying menu that caters to both savory and sweet cravings, staying true to its classic American stand roots.

• Ice Cream: Their primary sweet offering.

  • Soft Serve: The staple, often available in classic vanilla, chocolate, and twist flavors. It's known for its creamy consistency.

  • Cones: Standard offerings, though it's noted they "won't dip chocolate," which is a unique characteristic to be aware of.

  • Sundaes: Popular choices include "banana splits," "hot fudge sundaes," and "strawberry shortcake," providing indulgent dessert options.

  • Fudge Royale Cake: Another dessert item indicating a wider range of sweet treats beyond just cones and sundaes.

• Savory Food Items: Offering more than just ice cream, they provide a light dinner menu.

  • Hot Dogs: A classic American stand favorite, often enjoyed by families.

  • Half Smokes: A popular regional sausage, a "half smoke" is a local favorite often found at stands like Hovermale's.

  • Beef BBQ Sandwich: A specific food item mentioned by customers, indicating traditional barbecue sandwich options.

Hovermale's Tastes Best sets itself apart in the Fort Washington area through several unique features that contribute to its lasting appeal and charm:

• Nostalgic "Throwback" Experience: Customers frequently describe it as an "amazing throwback to the 90s" and a place that has been "serving wholesome cones since 1954." This vintage Americana vibe provides a unique and memorable experience, transporting visitors back to simpler times.

• Cash Only Policy: A distinctive feature is its "cash only" payment method. While requiring planning for some, it contributes to the old-school charm and keeps prices "very reasonable," as noted by customers. An ATM is available across the street, though it may incur a surcharge.

• Combination of Food and Ice Cream: Unlike pure ice cream shops, Hovermale's offers a selection of savory items like "hot dogs and beef BBQ sandwich" and "half smokes." This makes it an ideal spot for a light dinner followed by dessert, catering to a wider range of needs.

• Efficient Service, Even with Lines: Despite sometimes experiencing "long lines," customers consistently report that the line "always moves quickly." This efficiency ensures that wait times are minimal, enhancing the overall customer experience.

• Ample Outdoor Seating: The availability of "stumps in the grassy area behind the parking lot" for seating creates a relaxed, informal, and family-friendly outdoor dining environment, perfect for enjoying treats on a warm day.

• Pet-Friendly: Hovermale's is noted as a pet-friendly establishment, welcoming Fido to join owners while they enjoy their treats, which is a big plus for dog owners in the area.

• Reasonable Prices: Customers highlight that prices are "very reasonable," making it an affordable and accessible option for families and individuals looking for quality food and ice cream without breaking the bank.

To plan your visit to Hovermale's Tastes Best in Fort Washington, Maryland, you can use the following contact details. Please remember to bring cash, as it is a cash-only establishment.

Address: 9011 Livingston Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744, USA

While a phone number was not explicitly provided in the core information, for establishments of this nature, checking local online directories or social media for the most current operating hours is often recommended. Reviews indicate it operates seasonally, typically opening around Memorial Day and closing at the end of summer. Their standard operating hours appear to be Tuesday through Saturday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with Mondays being closed. It's always a good idea to confirm hours, especially if planning a visit late in the season.

For the residents of Fort Washington, Maryland, Hovermale's Tastes Best is much more than just a place to get ice cream; it's a cherished local tradition and a nostalgic retreat. Its prime location on Livingston Road offers easy accessibility for families and individuals throughout Prince George's County, making it a convenient stop for a quick meal or a delightful dessert.

What truly makes Hovermale's Tastes Best suitable and deeply beloved by locals is its unique blend of classic charm and consistent value. The "cash only" policy, far from being an inconvenience, adds to its authentic "throwback" appeal, and customers appreciate that prices remain "very reasonable." The ability to grab a light dinner, like "hot dogs and beef BBQ sandwich" or a "half smoke," before enjoying a classic soft-serve ice cream, offers a complete and satisfying experience. Even during busy times, the lines "always move quickly," ensuring efficiency. The ample outdoor seating, including charming "stumps in the grassy area," provides a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere that encourages lingering and creating memories. For a taste of classic Americana, delicious and affordable treats, and a consistently pleasant experience, Hovermale's Tastes Best stands as an iconic and indispensable local gem in Fort Washington, making it the perfect go-to spot for generations to come.

Hovermale's Tastes Best

9011 Livingston Rd, Fort Washington, MD 20744, USA