This 'Kentucky Proud' Ice Cream Was Named the Best in the State

I'll admit to becoming spoiled when it comes to ice cream. About 10 years ago, I discovered Jeni's Splendid Ice Cream in Nashville, and my world changed.

Jeni's is known for its unique varieties--that's an understatement, by the way--and that they change up the offerings at their various shops frequently. You never know what you'll find when you get there, and that's a good thing. And recently, I've noticed more and more shops seriously upping their game and offering similarly decadent and unusual flavors. Bring. It. On.

And since ice cream is only an occasional indulgence, I don't mind spending a little extra for something so special. But for the best ice cream in Kentucky--according to Travel & Leisure--I would need to spend a LOT extra.

This 'Kentucky Proud' Ice Cream Is a Costly Delight

Formerly a Thai food restaurant called the Thai Orchid Cafe, Crank & Boom Ice Cream Lounge--ice cream cocktails and "adult" sundaes are on the upstairs lounge's menu--transformed into what it is today because no one was eating the Thai food. They'd come in for coconut ice cream--the only flavored served--and gobble it all up. That's when the owners made the decision to switch tracks. Here, owner Toa Green discusses her amazing brainchild:

Hey, I'm ready to enjoy signature flavors like bourbon & honey, blueberry lime cheesecake, Kentucky blackberry & buttermilk, coffee stout, and so many more. From time to time, there's even a limited edition flavor called Candy Beshear.

Crank & Boom in Lexington has been "cranking" out uniquely flavored ice cream for more than a decade, and business is "booming."

We'll all have to go there and help it to continue to boom. I can absolutely think of WAAAYY worse ways to spend my time.