1984 Best Ice Cream

Toscanini's

In a quiet, understated way. Try the gingersnap molasses. 899 Main St., Cambridge, MA .

2014 Best Ice Cream

Toscanini's

PHOTOGRAPH BY JESSE BURKE

We can confidently say that we’ve sampled just about every cone in Greater Boston—and scoop by scoop, Gus Rancatore’s Central Square ice cream shop remains unchallenged. The endless array of creative flavors—bourbon black pepper, mango-ginger, green tea—keeps things interesting, but it’s the thick, custardy texture that makes this ultra-rich ice cream the undisputed heavyweight champion of the slow-churned world. 899 Main St., Cambridge, MA 2139, tosci.com.

1990 Best Ice Cream, Flavors

Toscanini's Ice Cream

The only thing more intense than the flavors at Toscanini's is Roger Clemens's fastball. And nothing beats the variety. 899 Main St., Cambridge, MA .

2002 Best Ice Cream

Christina's Homemade Ice Cream

You know the contenders as well as we do, and the good-natured competition they generate is making area ice cream better by the minute. Case in point: Christina's, which is holding its own against such long-loved local big boys as Herrell's and Toscanini's with flavors including carrot cake, avocado, and khulfi (cardamom and pistachio). But originality alone doesn't cut it: The textures here are addictive, and the toppings are fresh. Go ahead, make a meal out of it—you might be able to cover all the food groups. 1255 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA christinasicecream.com.

2003 Best Ice Cream

Christina's Homemade Ice Cream

With all due respect to the old-fashioned flavors at Brigham's and the rich, smooth scoops at Toscanini's, we keep coming back to Christina's. This Inman Square institution continues to distinguish itself, with 40 imaginative flavors—from ginger and Kahlúa to cinnamon rice pudding and orange chocolate—and an intense flavor that's neither too sugary nor artificial. Owner Ray Ford's specialty is creating unusual varieties from herbs and spices. Rosewater, lemon thyme, and chamomile ice cream may not be what you craved walking in, but you'll be hooked by the time you walk out. 1225 Cambridge St., Cambridge, MA christinasicecream.com.

1982 Best Ice Cream, When You're Tired of Steve's

Toscani's

A newcomer, perhaps our Rookie of the Year. 899 Main St., Cambridge, MA .