Abbott’s Frozen Custard — 934 Great Plain Ave
Decidedly different than ice cream in texture, frozen custard is a delightful treat that’s surprisingly hard to find. Tucked away among consignment stores, Abbott’s Frozen Custard is a small shop with a long counter, offering thick, smooth frozen custard in a variety of flavors. Their acclaimed frozen custard birthday cake and staples such as Abbott’s old fashioned float, Mexican sundae and peanut butter sundae also attract flocks of customers. Abbott’s has been recognized in countless magazines and newspapers for their super smooth texture that no other frozen custard place seems to achieve. Abbott’s has counter service only, so it’s best to go there on warm days when you can walk around while you enjoy your treat.
The Closet Exchange — 918 Great Plain Ave
Located just across the street from Abbott’s Frozen Custard, The Closet Exchange consists of three different shops lined up in a row; a consignment store, a “newer” clothing store, and a 50-70 percent off store. The main store is home to items for several weeks until they drop to half-price, and then they are sent to the 50-70 percent off store, where they decrease in price again. Mother-daughter team Brenda and Maggie Stark run these stores, and the two women are always friendly and helpful (as are all of the cashiers). With three different stores from which to choose, it’s difficult not to find at least one item at a great low price.
Sweet Basil — 924 Great Plain Ave
Great for lunch or dinner, Sweet Basil offers almost excessive portions of delicious Italian food. Always packed and bustling, Sweet Basil has a dedicated customer base that raves about the raviolis, freshly baked bread and homemade pesto. Sweet Basil is also a great choice for vegetarians, with its large selection of delicious pasta and vegetable dishes. The lunch menu is reasonably priced, while the dinner choices are slightly steeper, with bigger portions. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, and the service is always friendly and attentive. For a lovely dinner or lunch and a heavy bag of leftovers on your way out, Sweet Basil is the perfect choice.
