About Us
Homer's Homemade Gourmet Ice Cream
A Chicago tradition since 1935
In 1935, restaurant owner Gus Poulos crafted his first batch of homemade ice cream—rich, dense, and unlike anything Chicago had ever tasted. What began as an experiment in his small Wilmette restaurant quickly became a sensation. Word spread fast through the North Shore, and soon the tiny two-table parlor on 1237 Green Bay Road was filled with neighbors eager for a scoop of something extraordinary. More than eight decades later, that same address remains the home of Homer’s Ice Cream—a place where every visit feels like stepping back into a simpler, sweeter time.
As demand grew, so did Homer’s. The two-table shop evolved into a full-service restaurant and ice-cream parlor, yet its soul never changed. Each batch is still made the old-fashioned way: slow-churned, high in butterfat, and bursting with homemade flavor.
Using only the finest ingredients and generations-old recipes, the Poulos family continues Gus’s legacy, preserving the same quality and charm that have made Homer’s a North Shore institution. Families who once came as children now bring their own kids and grandkids, carrying on a local tradition built on flavor, community, and care.
Today, Homer’s remains proudly family-owned and operated, serving both locals and fans from around the world. Our “super-premium” ice cream—made with up to 16% butterfat for that signature richness—is still handcrafted in Wilmette and shipped nationwide.
From classic favorites to seasonal creations like Pumpkin Pie, Fresh Peach, and Black Raspberry, there’s always something new to discover.

Whether you stop by our original shop for a cone, or order pints shipped overnight to your doorstep, you’ll taste the same tradition and care that’s made Homer’s a Chicago treasure since 1935.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create ice cream that honors our past while delighting today’s tastes. We blend craftsmanship, quality ingredients, and a touch of creativity to ensure every scoop delivers the same joy and satisfaction that’s defined Homer’s for generations.
Awards:
For more than 80 years, Homer’s has been perfecting the art of homemade ice cream. With every batch, we stay true to the original recipe created by Gus Poulos in 1935, using only fresh, natural ingredients and traditional small-batch methods.
Our dedication to quality has earned numerous awards from critics, readers, and industry experts alike—including recognition from Chicago Magazine, Bon Appétit, and the American Tasting Institute. Each honor reminds us that the extra care we put into our ice cream truly makes a difference.
We’re grateful to every fan who’s supported us through the decades. Thanks to you, Homer’s remains a Chicago favorite and a proud maker of super-premium ice cream that continues to delight generation after generation.
"Number one ice cream"
Pioneer Press
"Best in Chicago"
Chicago Magazine
"Best of North Shore"
North Shore Magazine
"Top Ten in the country"
Bon Appetit
"Finest in the Nation"
American Tasting Institute
