What 10Below Ice Cream Is

10Below is a rolled ice cream chain that makes ice cream to order by freezing a liquid mixture on a cold metal plate, then rolling it into cylinders and serving it in a cup. You choose a base flavor, pick mix-ins and toppings, and watch the staff prepare your order in front of you. The process takes a few minutes from start to finish.

The chain operates in multiple U.S. locations and some international markets. Each shop follows the same core method: the staff pours your chosen base onto a sub-zero plate (around −30°F), spreads it thin, lets it freeze for about a minute, scrapes it into rolls with two metal spatulas, and transfers the rolls to a cup. You then choose toppings from a separate bar.

10Below differs from traditional soft-serve or scooped ice cream because the base freezes in front of you rather than being pre-made and stored. This means the texture is denser and the flavor intensity can feel sharper than conventional ice cream.

Key Takeaways

  • 10Below makes ice cream by freezing a liquid base on a metal plate, rolling it, and serving it in a cup with your choice of toppings.
  • You select a base flavor, watch it freeze and roll, then add mix-ins or toppings from the topping bar at the end.
  • The entire process from order to finished product takes roughly three to five minutes.
  • Prices vary by location and size, but a single serving typically costs between $7 and $12 before tax.
  • 10Below locations are not in every city; you can find nearby shops through their website or app.

How to Order at 10Below

When you arrive, you will see a menu board listing base flavors. These change by location and season, but common options include vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, cookie dough, and seasonal specials. You tell the staff which base you want, and they begin preparing it.

While your base freezes on the plate, you can decide whether to add mix-ins — items like chocolate chips, fruit, candy, or cookie pieces that get folded into the ice cream as it rolls. Some mix-ins cost extra. Once the ice cream is rolled and placed in your cup, you move to the topping bar, where you can add sauces, sprinkles, whipped cream, or other garnishes.

The staff will ask about your preferences at each step. If you are unsure what to choose, asking for a recommendation is normal; staff members can suggest popular combinations or tell you which mix-ins pair well with your base flavor.

Pricing and What Affects the Cost

A single serving at 10Below typically ranges from $7 to $12, though this varies significantly by location, shop size, and whether you choose premium mix-ins or toppings. Smaller cities or franchise locations may charge less; high-traffic urban areas often charge more.

Most locations offer a small and large size option. Large sizes cost more but contain roughly 50% more ice cream. Some shops charge separately for premium mix-ins like brownie chunks or imported chocolate, while basic toppings like sprinkles or standard sauces are usually included.

10Below does not typically offer discounts through the main chain, though individual franchise locations may run local promotions. Checking the shop's social media or asking staff about current deals is worth doing if you visit regularly.

Texture and Taste Compared to Other Ice Cream

Rolled ice cream is denser and colder than soft-serve because it freezes at a lower temperature and contains less air. The result is a texture closer to traditional scooped ice cream but slightly smoother. Because it is made fresh to order, the base flavor tastes more concentrated than pre-made ice cream that has been stored.

The rolling process also creates a visual appeal — the cylinders stack visibly in the cup, and the texture is noticeably different from what you would get from a scoop. Some people prefer this texture; others find it too dense or icy. Tasting a sample before ordering is usually possible if you ask.

Mix-ins and toppings work the same way as they do at other ice cream shops, though the rolling method means they are distributed throughout the ice cream rather than sitting on top.

Finding a 10Below Location Near You

10Below has locations across the United States, but they are not in every city. The chain is concentrated in certain regions and continues to expand. You can find a nearby shop by visiting the 10Below website and using their location finder, or by searching "10Below near me" in Google Maps.

Each location operates independently as a franchise, so hours, menu options, and pricing can differ. Calling ahead or checking the specific shop's hours on Google Maps or their social media is a good idea before making a trip, especially if you are visiting for the first time.

Some 10Below shops are in shopping centers or downtown areas; others are standalone. Parking and accessibility vary by location.

Dietary Restrictions and Allergen Information

10Below bases typically contain dairy, and most mix-ins and toppings contain common allergens like nuts, soy, or gluten. If you have a food allergy or dietary restriction, ask the staff about ingredients before ordering. They should be able to tell you what is in each base and topping.

Some locations may offer dairy-free or vegan bases, but this is not standard across all shops. Calling ahead to ask whether your dietary needs can be met is the safest approach.

Cross-contamination is possible during preparation, especially if the same tools are used for multiple bases and toppings. If you have a severe allergy, discuss this with staff before they begin preparing your order.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my ice cream?

From the moment you order to when you receive your finished cup, expect three to five minutes. The freezing and rolling process takes about one to two minutes, and the rest is choosing toppings and payment. During busy times, the wait can be longer if there are customers ahead of you.

Can I get a sample before I order?

Most 10Below locations will let you taste a small sample of a base flavor if you ask. This is especially helpful if you are trying a new flavor or unsure whether you like rolled ice cream. Staff can usually provide a sample spoon without charge.

Do they have sugar-free or low-calorie options?

This varies by location. Some shops offer sugar-free bases or reduced-calorie options, but not all do. Call your local 10Below to ask what they have available, or ask the staff when you visit.

What if I do not like my order?

If something is wrong with your order — wrong flavor, unwanted mix-in, or quality issue — tell the staff when ready. Most locations will remake it or offer a refund. Since the ice cream is made fresh to order, returning it later is not practical because it will have melted.

Is 10Below more expensive than other ice cream shops?

10Below is generally pricier than chain soft-serve shops like McDonald's or Dairy Queen, but comparable to or slightly less than specialty ice cream shops. You are paying for the made-to-order experience and the novelty of watching the rolling process. Whether it is worth the cost depends on your budget and how much you value that experience.