Van Leeuwen Ice Cream To Open Scoop Shop In New Canaan

NEW CANAAN, CT — Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, a nationally popular brand known for its made-from-scratch dairy and vegan ice creams, will open a new scoop shop in New Canaan on Dec. 14.

The New Canaan store is the brand's third location in Connecticut. Van Leeuwen also operates scoop shops in Darien and Greenwich, according to a news release provided by Van Leeuwen.

The launch also marks a return to its roots for co-founders Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen, Fairfield County natives whose ice cream journey began in the area 20 years ago.

"Connecticut holds a special place in my heart," CEO and Co-Founder Ben Van Leeuwen said in a news release, "not only did I grow up here, but it’s where my ice cream journey first began back in 2002. So I am super excited to be opening our third scoop shop in my hometown state in just over a year. We can’t wait to come to New Canaan and bring the community good ice cream made with good ingredients that makes you feel good."

The shop will be open Dec. 14 from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. In celebration of the grand opening, the shop will offer $1 scoops on its opening day from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The first 100 customers will receive a free tote. Van Leeuwen has also teamed up with popular New Canaan restaurant Elm on a signature Cognac and Black Truffle Dulce de Leche sauce topping, which will only be available opening day.

The shop will also hold a giveaway with personalized keepsakes brand Monogram Mary offering ten lucky winners a custom monogrammed ice cream mug, which entitles them to free scoops in the mug through the end of the year, according to Van Leeuwen.

Located at 88 Elm Street, Van Leeuwen's New Canaan scoop shop will be open daily. Guests can enjoy their treats at the scoop shop or order pints for takeout or delivery.

Van Leeuwen's extensive menu features over 30 signature flavors, including honeycomb, marionberry cheesecake, praline butter cake and Earl Grey tea, in addition to sundaes, housemade waffle cones, ice cream sandwiches, root beer floats and milkshakes.

Popular vegan flavors include churros and fudge, peanut butter brownie honeycomb and strawberry shortcake, according to the company.