Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

- 550 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238

When the craving for a truly exceptional frozen treat hits in New York, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is a name that consistently comes to mind for many locals. What started as a single yellow truck on the streets of NYC has blossomed into a beloved institution, with scoop shops bringing their ultra-premium, artisanal creations to neighborhoods across the city and beyond. One of these gems is located right in the heart of Brooklyn’s Prospect Heights, on Vanderbilt Avenue. This particular location offers a full menu of their renowned ice cream, vegan ice cream, and other delightful desserts, all served in a casual and friendly setting that is perfect for a quick visit or a relaxing afternoon break.

The shop prides itself on using only the finest ingredients, a commitment that shines through in every scoop. They are famous for their "French ice cream," which is known for its rich and creamy texture derived from a high content of fresh milk, cream, egg yolks, and pure cane sugar. Whether you're a long-time fan who typically grabs a pint from the grocery store or a first-time visitor, stopping by one of their scoop shops is a great way to experience the full range of flavors and treats they have to offer. The staff are known for being courteous and helpful, ready to guide you through the extensive menu of options.

Beyond the classic ice cream, Van Leeuwen has built a strong reputation for its vegan offerings. This isn't just an afterthought; their vegan flavors are crafted with the same dedication to quality and taste as their traditional dairy-based counterparts, using alternative bases like oat milk and cashew milk. This inclusivity ensures that everyone, regardless of dietary preference, can find a delicious and satisfying treat. The atmosphere of the shop is trendy yet casual, making it an ideal spot for solo diners, families looking for a sweet outing, or anyone in need of a refreshing pick-me-up.

The location on Vanderbilt Avenue in Brooklyn provides a convenient spot for local residents and visitors to the Prospect Heights neighborhood. This area is vibrant and lively, with plenty to see and do. However, as is common in many bustling New York neighborhoods, finding street parking can be a challenge, so it's best to plan accordingly. The shop is designed for a quick and easy visit, perfect for those on the go.

The shop is also very accessible. They have a wheelchair accessible entrance, ensuring that all community members can easily come in and enjoy their products. For payment, they accept credit cards and debit cards, but in a nod to modern convenience, they operate as a largely cashless store. For those who prefer to use cash, a machine is available to convert your bills into a card that can then be used for your purchase, a thoughtful solution to accommodate all patrons.

Their menu is extensive and includes a variety of ice cream and dessert types to suit any craving. In addition to scoops, they also offer prepackaged pints, ice cream bars, and a range of other sweet treats. The variety of options is a major draw, with flavors ranging from the simple and classic to the uniquely creative. Whether you are in the mood for a classic scoop or something more adventurous, you will likely find a flavor that appeals to you.

Services Offered:

• In-store shopping and dining
• Takeout and in-store pickup for convenient ordering
• Local delivery options
• Full menu of ice cream and vegan ice cream
• Sorbets and other frozen treats
• A selection of coffee beverages
• A variety of sweet treats, including sundaes, milkshakes, and ice cream sandwiches
• Prepackaged pints and bars for at-home enjoyment

Features / Highlights:

• High-quality, artisanal ice cream and vegan ice cream made with fresh ingredients
• A family-friendly atmosphere that is good for kids
• Accommodates solo dining
• Casual and trendy ambiance
• Wheelchair accessible entrance for easy access
• Accepts various payment methods, including credit and debit cards, and has a machine for converting cash to a payment card
• A diverse menu that includes classic, seasonal, and unique flavors
• Offers a full range of products from scoops to pints and ice cream sandwiches

Contact Information:

Address: 550 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA

Phone: (347) 240-7453

What is worth choosing:

The immense variety and high quality are what truly set this ice cream shop apart. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream offers a delicious experience for everyone. For those who appreciate the classics, flavors like Strawberry, Vanilla Bean, and Earl Grey Tea are celebrated for their authentic taste and rich texture. The Earl Grey, for instance, is a long-time favorite steeped with organic black tea leaves and bergamot oil, offering a unique and aromatic profile. The Strawberry flavor is made with Oregon-grown strawberries, providing a smooth and natural taste. The Sicilian Pistachio, sourced from Mount Etna in Italy, is another standout, renowned for its fragrance and intense flavor.

For those with dietary restrictions or a preference for non-dairy options, the selection is equally impressive. Their vegan ice cream is not just an alternative; it's a destination in itself. Options like the Vegan Choc Chip Cookie Dough and Vegan Cookies & Cream Caramel Swirl showcase their ability to create creamy, flavorful vegan treats that stand up to their dairy counterparts. They also offer refreshing sorbets for a lighter option. The menu isn't limited to just scoops either. Patrons can enjoy everything from sundaes and milkshakes to housemade waffle cones and chocolate chip cookies.

The shop's commitment to quality extends to their coffee offerings as well. The Coffee Affogato is a popular choice, blending coffee ice cream with sweet cream for a rich and creamy experience. Whether you’re stopping by for a single scoop of a popular flavor like Honeycomb or picking up a pint of a seasonal special like Marionberry Cheesecake, the shop provides a satisfying and memorable dessert experience. While the price may be on the higher end, as one customer noted, the generous scoop size and premium quality of the ingredients justify the cost for many. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make it an excellent spot for a casual treat, whether you’re dining in or taking your dessert to go. It’s a place that caters to individual diners, couples, and families alike, making it a true neighborhood hub for all things sweet and cold.

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream

550 Vanderbilt Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11238, USA