Good News Café & Ice Cream in Madison, WI

Key Highlights

• Artisan, house-made ice cream 🍦 every scoop crafted in-house—cones too!
• Inventive flavors—from Strawberry Balsamic to Lavender & Honey, plus a trio of vegan options
• Lively café energy with both indoor and outdoor seating
• Mexican hot chocolate drinks (boozy options for adults!) that'll warm your soul or kick up your taste buds
• Friendly, down-to-earth staff that make first-timers feel instantly at home

Features & Amenities

• Dine-in service: Settle into a colorful, playful space with a mix of tables and quirky art
• Delivery available: Craving cold brew ice cream but stuck at home? They’ll come to you
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance: No hassle to get in—everyone’s welcome
• Payment made easy: Accepts both credit and debit cards, so no need to scramble for cash
• No dedicated parking: Street parking only, so plan ahead if you’re driving—walking or biking is popular here

What Guests Love (And Occasionally Don’t)

Regulars and newcomers alike rave about the distinctive, ever-changing flavors. Think outside the usual ice cream shop box: Fig & Honey, Lavender & Honey, Strawberry Balsamic—each one a local favorite. Vegan guests are delighted to find more than the token sorbet, and those who prefer light, refreshing treats appreciate the not-too-heavy texture.

The Mexican hot chocolate (and its adult beverage cousin) gets special mention for its authentic flavor profile—spicy, gently sweet, and just a little different than the norm. Folks often recommend it when you want a dessert that doubles as a conversation starter.

Atmosphere is a big draw. Guests enjoy the vibrant decor, playful art touches, and a vibe that feels both relaxed and bustling—especially on weekends or after the dinner rush. The indoor/outdoor seating means you can people-watch on King St or cozy up inside.

Many mention the service is cheerful and helpful, though some note wait times can stretch a bit if there’s a crowd and only one server manning the counter. Still, the staff’s genuine enthusiasm for their creations tends to win folks over.

Pro tip from locals: The ice cream here is on the softer, creamier side—ideal for savoring (but don’t dawdle on a hot day).

Menu Notes & Must-Trys

• Strawberry Balsamic: Tart, fruity, with a zing from real balsamic; frozen strawberry bits add a bite
• Vanilla Bean: Deeply flavorful, way beyond your standard vanilla—intense and aromatic
• Cold Brew: Coffee lovers call this one a “WOW”—smooth, bold, and never overpoweringly sweet
• Lavender & Honey: Fragrant and floral, with a touch of rich sweetness
• Boozy Mexican Hot Chocolate: Only for dining in, but totally worth it if you’re feeling adventurous

Pro tip: Ask for flavor recommendations—staff love sharing their personal favorites, and you might discover a new obsession.

Hidden Gem

The cones are house-made, not just the ice cream! And if you’re lucky, you might catch a batch coming fresh off the press, filling the shop with the sweet smell of vanilla and butter. 🍯

Vibe & Crowd

• Young couples and families alike—this place is both date-night-friendly and kid-approved
• Post-dinner crowd: Many pop in after eating at one of King Street’s restaurants (that outdoor seating is clutch in summer)
• Students, creatives, and city explorers: The café doubles as a casual hangout or study spot, especially off-peak hours

Accessibility & Parking

• Wheelchair-accessible entrance—no steps or tight squeezes
• No parking lot: Rely on street parking, nearby garages, or—better yet—stroll over from the Capitol or a downtown event

Weekends can get lively, so bring some patience if lines are long. The payoff? Some of the quirkiest, most satisfying frozen treats in Madison.

Did You Know?

Good News Café & Ice Cream rotates flavors with the seasons—so you might stumble onto a one-off like Sweet Corn or Toasted Coconut during special events. There’s always something new for adventurous palates!

Quick Take: This downtown gem reimagines ice cream (and hot chocolate!)—one bold, house-made flavor at a time.

Pro Tip

Planning a post-dinner treat or afternoon pick-me-up? Check out the shop’s social feed for daily flavor updates—they sometimes announce surprise releases or pop-up specials only hours in advance. And if you crave a quieter visit, come mid-afternoon before the dinner rush. Don’t forget to snap a pic—the funky decor and colorful cones are prime Instagram material!