Old Town Alexandria is buzzing as Van Leeuwen Ice Cream makes its debut. This popular New York brand opens its first local shop at 400 King St. on June 18, celebrating with $1 scoops from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and free tote bags for the first 100 guests.
Alexandria has a rich ice cream history. It was even dubbed the “Ice Cream Cone Capital of the United States” by Forbes.
Van Leeuwen started in 2008 with just a food truck in NYC, thanks to brothers Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen and Laura O’Neill. Now, they boast over 100 scoop shops nationwide. Their ice cream stands out because it uses a French-style, custard base with 5% to 8% egg yolk, giving it a creamy, dense texture. They also cater to those seeking dairy-free options, using cashew, oat, or coconut bases.
The menu features around 30 flavors, mixing classics like Vanilla Bean and Pistachio with unique choices like Earl Grey Tea and Marionberry Cheesecake. Their famous Honeycomb flavor combines vanilla ice cream with crunchy honey toffee.
In recent years, Van Leeuwen has gained attention for its creative collaborations, releasing flavors like Kraft Macaroni & Cheese and Hidden Valley Ranch ice cream. Such bold flavors attract new customers, who may later seek out their crowd-pleasing staples.
If you’re an ice cream lover, Alexandria has a lot to offer beyond Van Leeuwen. Here are some local favorites to try this summer:
- Ben & Jerry’s (103 South Union St.): Famous for its signature ice cream flavors and fun sundaes.
- Casa Rosada Artisan Gelato (111 South Payne St.): Offers unique Argentinian-style gelato with adventurous flavors.
- The Creamery (110 King St.): Local favorite for homemade ice cream and quick service.
- ESP Tea & Coffee (1012 King St.): Known for its gelato, sorbet, and a cozy atmosphere.
- Fabled Ice Cream (130 South Royal St.): Specializes in small-batch flavors inspired by literature.
- Goodies Frozen Custard (200 Commerce St.): A daily fresh custard shop known for its nostalgic treats.
Recent Trends and User Reactions
Social media has seen a surge in excitement about ice cream shops, especially with Van Leeuwen’s arrival. Many users are celebrating unique flavors on platforms like Instagram, sharing their sweet experiences and recommendations for local stores.
Ice cream is more than just a treat; it often evokes nostalgia and joy, creating cherished memories. A recent survey indicated that over 70% of people associate ice cream with happiness and summer fun.
So, as summer heats up, grab a cone and explore Alexandria’s vibrant ice cream scene!
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