How Van Leeuwen Ice Cream grew from a truck to 100 shops nationwide

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream has grown from a small mobile operation into a nationwide favourite. The brand, known for its rich flavours and quality ingredients, now boasts over 100 shops across the US. Recently, journalist David Muir visited their SoHo location in New York City as part of the Made in America Christmas series to explore what makes their ice cream special. The company began in 2008 when founders Ben Van Leeuwen, Pete Van Leeuwen, and Laura O’Neill launched their business from a repurposed US Postal Service truck. Two years later, they opened their first permanent shop in Brooklyn’s Greenpoint neighbourhood. Their approach to ice cream relies on simple but high-quality ingredients—Ben Van Leeuwen has shared that a generous mix of cream and eggs gives their product its signature richness.

Sourcing plays a key role in their recipes. Pete Van Leeuwen highlighted the use of Totem strawberries from Oregon in their strawberry flavour, while the company partners with farmers nationwide for other ingredients. Even the way they serve it stands out: the Zeroll Ice Cream Scoop ensures every portion is perfectly shaped. During his visit, David Muir sampled a range of flavours, from classic options to inventive ones like mango sticky rice and Earl Grey tea. The brand’s expansion has allowed them to ship nationwide, bringing their handcrafted ice cream to customers far beyond their original New York roots.

From a single truck to a coast-to-coast presence, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream has built a reputation for quality and creativity. Their commitment to premium ingredients and traditional techniques continues to attract fans. With over 100 locations and nationwide delivery, the brand remains a standout in American ice cream.