The City’s Best Snowballs
The tastiest way to beat the heat
By Suzanne PfefferleHansen’s
4801 Tchoupitoulas St.
For nearly 70 years, Hansen’s has been serving snowballs to sweets-loving New Orleanians. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beloved stands in the city. Every summer, locals eagerly wait in line for a taste of one of their famous frozen indulgences that just never seem to go out of style.
LuLu’s
734 Papworth, Metairie
One summer, I developed an addiction to these icy treats that was so severe, the server would say “See you tomorrow” each time she handed me my snowball. Even though that should have signaled some sort of snowball intervention, I kept going back, nearly graduating from the “Large” cup to the “Big Dog.” Whether it is the ice that is so soft it melts in your mouth, or the sweet tooth-satisfying flavors, something about LuLu’s has me hooked. If you still don’t take my word for it, grab a spot at one of their picnic tables to enjoy your LuLu’s snowball. I guarantee you will be back!
Pandora’s
901 Carrollton Ave.
A crowd can always be spotted from a mile away at this popular snowball stand, which sits on the corner of Carrollton, across from Fellini’s. Locals eagerly line up to place an order for their favorite flavor. With an array of options to choose from, like King Cake Cream and Cajun Red Hot, deciding can be difficult! Whichever flavor you choose to go with, Pandora’s is the perfect solution for a hot summer day.
Plum Street
Plum St. & Burdette St.
For years, one of the most buzzed about snowball stands has always been Plum Street Snowballs. Famous for their unique carryout containers instead of cups, it has become the locals’ favorite therapy for fighting the summer heat. Because of its convenient location on the corner of Plum Street and Burdette, college students can easily stroll to the stand and enjoy their icy treat under the umbrella-shaded picnic table.
Queen of the Ball
8116 Oak St.
Also in the university area is a Sweet Shoppe that is quickly becoming one of my favorites – Queen of the Ball. This relatively new snowball stand definitely deserves the royal treatment with its creative flavors and diva-ish décor. Try one of their delicious creations like strawberry-stuffed wedding cake or pie a la mode. In addition to quaint tables and chairs, a wireless internet station is also available. Best of all, there is no need to rush off and eat on the go. The sit-down snowball parlor is embellished with chandeliers made out of Mardi Gras beads, vanity mirrors, and polka dots.
Sal’s
1823 Metairie Ave.
When I went to Sal’s for my first snowball of the season, it had just rained and it was still windy. Despite the fact that the weather was cold enough for me to show up in a sweatshirt, Sal’s was still packed! Surprisingly, I didn’t have to wait long for my cup of ice, overflowing with sweet strawberry syrup. The line of sugar-craving customers quickly disappeared because of the prompt and friendly service.