When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Why Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream stands out as an exceptional place to meet up with friends thanks to its commitment to crafting premium ice cream from quality ingredients, its inviting atmosphere, and innovative flavor offerings. Founded in 2008 by brothers Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen along with Laura O'Neill, it began as a humble yellow food truck in New York City. Since then, it has grown into a celebrated chain with over 70 stores nationwide as of late 2024. The brand’s mission has always centered on creating "good ice cream from good ingredients that make you feel good," which resonates in their ultra-creamy textures and distinctive, bold flavors such as Honeycomb, Earl Grey Tea, and Pistachio — a personal favorite of co-founder Ben Van Leeuwen. Both dairy and vegan options cater to diverse preferences, making it a versatile spot for any group gathering. The welcoming scoop shops, located across multiple states including New York, California, and Texas, offer a cozy environment where friends can enjoy high-quality desserts together. Additionally, their retail presence in grocery chains and online delivery service further enhances accessibility for group meetups or casual indulgences. With its focus on purity, originality, and community-friendly spaces, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream creates a memorable setting to bond over shared sweet treats.
Here's what people think of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
As of recent, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream holds a 4.7-star rating based on 247 reviews.
User reviews consistently praise Van Leeuwen Ice Cream for its rich, creamy texture and creative flavors that provide a premium ice cream experience. Fans highlight the perfect balance of indulgence and quality, emphasizing the brand's unique flavors like Honeycomb and Earl Grey Tea that continue to earn acclaim. Many appreciate the availability of both dairy and vegan options, allowing everyone in a group to find something enjoyable. Positive remarks often focus on the freshness of ingredients and the overall decadence of the pints and bars, describing the ice cream as a delightful treat worth the price. On the other hand, some negative feedback touches on the higher price point, which can be a deterrent to purchasing more frequently. Minor criticisms also mention occasional issues with store policies, such as a past dispute over cash payment acceptance, though this has been resolved following legal compliance. Despite these few drawbacks, the overwhelmingly positive sentiment from customers underscores the brand’s success in delivering a standout dessert option. In conclusion, reviews portray Van Leeuwen Ice Cream as a beloved and trusted destination for ice cream enthusiasts seeking quality, creativity, and a satisfying indulgence that justifies its premium positioning.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Maybelle Johnson
Wanted a treat and it was great ! lots of vegan options and not just ur typical ones employee Ryan was so nice and patient and everything was so clean - … better than Jeni’s….
Caro Beguiristain
They’re having supply chain issues rn for the vegan flavors so they’re out of most, but sell delicious vegan bars for only three bucks!! they’re big but i ate too much before i remembered to take a pic.
Shane Delaney
wow. van leeuwen. so awesome. our ice cream connoisseur was a beast. i am too shy to ask for his name rn, but he’s a chill guy. loves djo. classic him. anyways, loved this place. ice cream cake flavor. yum. waffle cone. even more yum. tbh, only leaving this review for a free ice cream at the next visit. $10 cone is egregious. capitalism. thank god my girlfriend paid. shoutout her. ok that’s it. ok i’m done now. ok bye.
Jaclyn C
Cute little ice cream shop in silverlake. Van Leeuwen never disappoints. Alyssa was great - friendly and helpful. The peanut butter brownie honeycomb and the Bug Face Affogati were dee lish!
Caylin Gurrola
Such an awesome place for a sweet treat and they accommodate vegan as well! Staff is always so nice in every shop I visit, however Vic goes above and beyond! They are so welcoming and offer to try any samples or if we need any recommendations. Love their energy and the ice cream!
How to reach Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
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Why Van Leeuwen Ice Cream may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream with your friends?
When it comes to gathering with friends or family, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream offers an irresistibly sweet destination that satisfies everyone’s craving for quality artisan ice cream in a welcoming and vibrant setting. This New York City favorite holds a stellar reputation, boasting a high rating of 4.7 from 247 reviews, reflecting consistent customer delight. The charm of Van Leeuwen lies not only in its delicious, creamy ice cream but also in the thoughtful variety it offers, including dairy-free vegan flavors, which means no one has to miss out. Its multiple convenient locations across NYC, including East Village, Lower East Side, and Macdougal Street, create accessible options for meetups anywhere around the city. The inviting ambiance at each shop encourages relaxed socializing, from casual catch-ups to joyful celebrations. Whether you’re indulging in classic vanilla or adventurous honeycomb, Van Leeuwen’s commitment to quality ingredients and intriguing flavors makes it a perfect sweet spot to rally for memorable moments with your crew. From kids to adults, every member of your group will appreciate the approachable yet artisanal feel that sparks happiness and connection alongside every scoop.
What activities can you enjoy at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream with a group?
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is much more than just a place to savor dessert; it’s an experiential venue that offers a variety of activities ideal for groups. First, you can explore an array of classic and innovative ice cream flavors, such as honeycomb, dark chocolate, and seasonal specials that invite playful tasting challenges among friends. Vegan and dairy-free options mean everyone can participate, making it inclusive and fun. You can create custom ice cream sundaes or milkshake blends, letting guests personalize their treats, which turns dessert time into a mini event. The shops also sell chocolate chip cookies and cookie sandwiches, adding texture and variety to your group’s tasting adventure. Each location features seating areas that encourage socializing, whether you want to sit inside or take advantage of nearby outdoor spaces, allowing groups to relax and enjoy their treats comfortably. Moreover, many locations stay open late on weekends, which supports evening hangouts or dessert runs after dinner. The social atmosphere is enhanced by friendly staff who are known for their helpfulness, making the experience smooth and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Why is Van Leeuwen Ice Cream perfect for a group meetup?
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream’s combination of quality, accessibility, and ambiance makes it an ideal spot for group meetups. Its multiple locations in trendy NYC neighborhoods like East Village and the Lower East Side provide spatial convenience no matter where your group is coming from. Each shop’s design is clean and inviting, with a modern aesthetic that creates a lively yet comfortable environment for conversation and celebration. The menu’s broad range of flavors—including vegan choices—caters to diverse tastes and dietary needs, which is critical for groups with varying preferences. Pricing is fair compared to gourmet ice cream standards, offering good portions that can be shared or enjoyed individually, perfect for people who want to try different flavors. Additionally, the friendly, knowledgeable staff help make group orders seamless while their efficient service minimizes wait times, even during busy periods. Lastly, the community aspect is palpable as the shops often become buzzing local hubs where you can catch a warm vibe, making your group meetup feel special and authentic.
How does Van Leeuwen Ice Cream cater to different dietary preferences in a group?
One of the outstanding features that make Van Leeuwen Ice Cream stand out for group gatherings is its dedication to inclusivity through a strong selection of vegan and dairy-free ice cream options. These offerings allow guests who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to try something different to enjoy their dessert without compromise. The ice cream is crafted with high-quality ingredients to maintain the creamy texture and rich flavor typical of dairy, providing an equally delightful experience across all selections. This thoughtful catering ensures that no one feels left out, enhancing the group dynamic by making everyone feel welcome. Beyond vegan ice cream, the shop’s hushed emphasis on cross-contamination prevention further comforts customers with allergies or sensitivities, reflecting the brand’s care for health-conscious consumers. Whether the group wants classic favorites or adventurous vegan chocolate chip cookie dough, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream’s menu caters thoughtfully to a wide range of needs, minimizing any dietary barriers that might otherwise detract from a shared outing.
What makes the atmosphere at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream conducive to gatherings?
The atmosphere at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is both vibrant and cozy, striking a balance that appeals to groups looking for a casual yet special place to hang out. Each location features clean, modern interiors with bright lighting and colorful decor that uplift the mood and create a cheerful environment. Seating arrangements encourage social interaction, whether at communal tables or smaller setups for intimate conversations. The friendly, attentive staff contribute to a relaxed vibe by providing warm, engaging service while efficiently managing customer flow during busy times. The overall buzz in the shops—filled with the happy chatter of ice cream lovers and the enticing scent of freshly baked cookies—adds to the sensory appeal that makes meetups feel lively and joyful. Furthermore, many Van Leeuwen shops stay open late on weekends, offering a unique opportunity for evening gatherings that keep the night dynamic and fun. This combination of environment, service, and extended hours makes it an inviting venue that supports spontaneous and planned social events alike.
What are some unique flavor experiences you can explore with your group?
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is known for curating an imaginative and diverse flavor lineup that turns every visit into a delightful tasting journey—ideal for groups who enjoy sharing and discovering new favorites. Classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate provide a dependable foundation, while unique choices like honeycomb, matcha, or black sesame spark conversations and curiosity. Seasonal flavors add an element of surprise and exclusivity to each visit, encouraging repeat meetups to sample the latest creations. For groups who love to experiment, there is the option to try Turkish coffee, Earl Grey, or vegan salted caramel, which offer sophisticated taste profiles uncommon in typical ice cream shops. Additionally, pairing these ice creams with complementary bakery items such as chocolate chip cookies, cookie sandwiches, and rich milkshakes elevates the tasting experience. This adventurous flavor diversity makes the place a magnet for friends and family who not only want to satisfy a sweet tooth but also enjoy a novel culinary experience together.
How do the locations and hours support group meetups?
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream operates multiple locations in some of New York City’s most accessible and vibrant neighborhoods, including East Village, Lower East Side, and Macdougal Street — all hotspots with other cafés, shops, and parks nearby that naturally complement a day or evening out. This strategic dispersion offers groups the flexibility to plan a meetup in a convenient spot that suits everyone’s commute. The shops maintain generous hours, generally open from late morning through late evening (up to 1 a.m. on weekends), accommodating a variety of meetup times from casual afternoon hangouts to late-night social events. Extended evening hours are especially appealing for groups looking for a lively but laid-back spot to close out a night with a sweet treat. Phone contacts at all locations and active responsiveness make it easy to check current offerings and plan group visits without hassle. These operational aspects make Van Leeuwen Ice Cream an accessible and reliable choice for planned gatherings or spontaneous meetups.
Why is Van Leeuwen Ice Cream a trusted and highly-rated choice?
Boasting an impressive 4.7 rating across almost 250 reviews, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream’s reputation reflects its consistent delivery of quality, service, and experience. Customers frequently praise the rich, creamy texture and robust flavors of their ice cream, remarkably highlighted by vegan options praised as some of the best in New York City. The company’s transparency with ingredients and commitment to artisanal quality elevate it beyond typical ice cream shops. Reviews also note the staff’s friendliness and the clean, inviting environment, factors that enhance overall satisfaction. While some mention price as a bit higher, most agree that the portion sizes, quality, and ambiance justify the cost, especially for special group outings. This positive track record makes Van Leeuwen a trusted destination when planning social events that combine great taste, reliability, and a welcoming setting.
With all these exceptional qualities — diverse flavors, inclusive options, sociable atmosphere, walkable locations, and strong community reputation — Van Leeuwen Ice Cream proves to be a premier choice for hosting joyful meetups with friends or family.