It's a good thing that the friendly staff in this family-owned establishment will patiently hand out tiny spoon after spoon of samples to bewildered customers gazing into the glass cases. Vibrantly colored ice creams in flavors like avocado, lychee, purple yam and spicy ginger stand up next to blissful-looking versions of favorites like mint chocolate, mocha and glistening lemon custard. Put a toe in the pool with maiz, a vanilla base with the unmistakable buttery flavor of sweet corn; or dive headfirst with Halo Halo Fiesta, a combo that blends pineapple, coconut, red beans, white beans and Rice Krispies.

Owner Lito Valeroso, a veteran of the ice cream business, showcases his Filipino heritage by blending Asian flavors into traditional American cream-and-butterfat based recipes. His specialty ice creams are handmade on-site, using a special method he chose because it cuts down on the air in the mix, making the ice cream richer, creamier and denser.

Single four-ounce scoops cost $2.29 (make it a double for $1.70 more) and can be heaped onto a waffle, cake, sugar or candy-coated cone. Any flavor you choose can also be blended into massive shakes, malts or even bubble teas ($4). If you've got some friends along or haven't eaten in days, go in on the Village Volcano, which stuffs you with seven scoops, four toppings and cookies for $13.

Otherwise, take it home in pints ($4.50) or larger packed quantities, or hit the road with frozen bars on a stick ($1.89). The Village Creamery will also create custom ice cream cakes, or even cater your next party.

Centerstage Reviewer: Julia Steinberger