Where to Get Nugget Ice Near You (2026)
Nugget ice — the soft, chewable pellets people call "the good ice" — is easier to find than you'd think. You can buy it by the cup or bag at chains like Sonic and Chick-fil-A, pick up bagged nugget ice at some grocery and convenience stores, or make unlimited amounts at home with a countertop nugget ice maker. Here's every way to get nugget ice near you in 2026.
What is nugget ice?
Nugget ice (also called pellet ice, chewable ice, or "Sonic ice") is made by compacting flakes of ice into small, soft nuggets. It's beloved because it's easy to chew, absorbs the flavor of your drink, and doesn't crack your teeth like cubed ice. It's the same ice used in most hospitals and many restaurants — which is why it sometimes gets called "hospital ice."
Where to buy nugget ice near you
Sonic Drive-In. The most famous source. Sonic sells cups of its signature nugget ice and, at most locations, a large bag of ice (usually around 5–10 lb) for a few dollars — one of the cheapest ways to get a lot of nugget ice. Check the Sonic app or Sonic's location finder for the nearest drive-in.
Chick-fil-A. Chick-fil-A uses nugget ice in its drinks and sells bagged ice at many locations. Ask at the counter or drive-thru, or use the Chick-fil-A locator.
Other spots. Some Zaxby's, Cook Out, and regional burger and BBQ chains serve nugget ice, and many hospitals, QuikTrip and Kwik Trip stores, and grocery stores carry it or sell it bagged. If a place advertises "chewable" or "pellet" ice, that's nugget ice.
| Source | What you get | Rough cost |
|---|---|---|
| Sonic Drive-In | Cup or bag of nugget ice | $1 – $4 |
| Chick-fil-A | Cup or bagged ice | $1 – $4 |
| Grocery / convenience | Bagged pellet ice (where stocked) | $2 – $6 |
| Home nugget ice maker | Unlimited, on demand | $0 after machine |
Make nugget ice at home
If you're a true nugget-ice devotee, a countertop nugget ice maker pays for itself fast. Machines like the GE Profile Opal and similar competitors produce cafe-style nugget ice in about 15–20 minutes and refill automatically. Expect to spend roughly $350–$600 for a quality unit. See our guide to the best home nugget ice makers for what to look for.
Why people love nugget ice
It's soft enough to chew comfortably, it's porous so it soaks up soda, tea, or cocktails, and it chills a drink fast without watering it down as quickly as crushed ice. Once you're hooked, regular cubes never feel the same. If you're comparing types, see nugget ice vs crushed vs cubed ice.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy nugget ice near me?
Sonic Drive-In and Chick-fil-A are the most reliable sources — both sell cups and, at many locations, bags of nugget ice for a few dollars. Some grocery and convenience stores stock bagged pellet ice, and a home nugget ice maker gives you an unlimited supply.
Is Sonic ice the same as nugget ice?
Yes. "Sonic ice" is just nugget ice (also called pellet or chewable ice). Sonic made it famous, but the same soft, chewable ice is used in hospitals and many restaurants. Learn more in what is Sonic ice.
Can you buy bags of nugget ice?
Yes. Sonic sells bags of its nugget ice at most drive-ins, Chick-fil-A offers bagged ice at many locations, and some grocery and convenience stores carry pellet ice in the freezer section.
Craving something to go with that good ice? Find an artisan ice cream shop near you.