
Getty Images
The readers of Up North News have spoken. The votes are in and Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream has been noted as the Best Ice Cream Winner in Madison. The Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company dates back to 1962 when the Deadman family decided to embark on a new adventure: a candy and ice cream shop. Chuck Sr. and his wife, Nancy, set on a mission to craft the best ice cream possible, and over sixty years later, Chocolate Shoppe continues to set the standard for ice cream in Madison.
Today, Chocolate Shoppe has four ice cream parlors and a manufacturing plant in Madison. With over 100 flavors, the Deadman family proves determined to cater to a wide audience. You can find vegan ice cream, seasonal varieties, peanut-free, and a whole lot of other options by visiting one of their locations.
The Deadman family opened their first location on State Street in 1964, which continues to be the company’s oldest and most notable location. By 1979, the Chocolate Shoppe had grown in popularity and the demand prompted the Deadman family to open their manufacturing plant. And they’ve clearly done something right to maintain such dedicated fans over the years.
Chocolate Shoppe is voted Best Ice Cream in Madison, and to celebrate, you can try one of their 100 flavors.
READ MORE: The best pizza in Madison, according to our readers

Refugee-turned-restauranteur brings a ‘Touch of Ukraine’ to Wisconsin
In November 2022, Katya Temchenko arrived in Madison as a refugee from southeastern Ukraine. A year-and-a-half later, she’s serving her country’s...

Madison Food Guide: The best overall restaurants of 2025
Whoever says you have to drive to Chicago for amazing food doesn’t get it. The restaurants right here in Madison have plenty to offer if you know...

Madison Food Guide: The best fish fry spots
In Wisconsin, Friday fish fries are where it’s at. It’s an event. A ritual. A sacred, deep-fried tradition. And in Madison, the fish fries are as...

Madison Food Guide: Where to find the best old fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a Wisconsin staple. A classic. A cocktail that sings, “I want to party like it’s 1959.” In Madison, the Old Fashioned is king....