Prepare your taste buds for a delectable journey as the renowned American artisanal ice cream purveyor, Van Leeuwen makes its grand entrance into the culinary scene of Singapore this upcoming August 2023.
With its roots nestled in the vibrant streets of New York, Van Leeuwen is poised to open its doors at Orchard Central, marking the inception of its Singaporean venture. The charming establishment will encompass a tantalising counter and a cosy dine-in area, beckoning ice cream aficionados to relish the symphony of flavours. Here, an array of French-style and vegan ice creams will be showcased, showcasing a medley of classic and signature tastes.
Van Leeuwen: Crafting Ice Cream Symphony Beyond Boundaries
The distinguishing feature that sets Van Leeuwen apart is its devotion to French-style ice cream, a velvety concoction crafted using twice the customary amount of egg yolks. This technique lends the ice cream its luscious custard-like texture that sets it apart. Complementing this, the brand’s vegan alternatives draw from oat, cashew, coconut, and cacao butter, forming a harmonious chorus of flavours and textures.
Delight awaits as these sumptuous creations are lovingly nestled within house-made waffle cones. The menu dances through a spectrum of sensations, from Sicilian pistachio’s nutty embrace and Earl Grey tea’s sophisticated notes to the refreshing mint chip. For the adventurers, the menu unveils imaginative treats such as honeycomb, marionberry cheesecake, and praline butter cake – each an epitome of culinary artistry. As anticipation builds, pricing details for these offerings remain a delightful mystery.
Image from Van Leeuwen website
Across the ocean, in the heart of the United States, Van Leeuwen’s stores offer a symphony of treats beyond mere scoops. Sundaes that transcend imagination, milkshakes that tantalise the senses, and root beer floats invoke nostalgia – all showcasing the brand’s unfailing dedication to craftsmanship. The journey doesn’t end with the ice cream itself; a host of toppings, including the delicate crunch of honeycomb candy, the airy embrace of vegan whipped cream, and the velvety cascade of salted caramel sauce, elevate the experience to new heights.
Origins: A Serendipitous Journey from New York’s Streets
The birth of Van Leeuwen in 2008 in the creative borough of Brooklyn was nothing short of serendipitous. Co-founder Ben Van Leeuwen’s vision took root as he discerned an untapped market for meticulously crafted ice cream, vending from charming trucks. This vision, realised in collaboration with his brother Pete and former partner Laura O’Neill, led to the inception of a venture that would soon swirl its way into New York City’s heart.
The tale didn’t stop at French-style delicacies; the brand’s offerings expanded to include vegan ice creams a few years later. With time, the repertoire has flourished to encompass an assortment of ice cream sandwiches, pint-sized pleasures, and delectable bars – each an embodiment of excellence. Crafted within a Brooklyn-based factory, these offerings radiate the same commitment to quality that initiated the brand’s journey.
From the city’s bustling streets to now gracing over 50 locations across the United States – from the sun-drenched streets of California to the heartwarming landscapes of Texas – Van Leeuwen has transcended its humble origins, crafting an empire built upon frozen fantasies.
Image from Van Leeuwen website
A Singaporean Indulgence
In a captivating collaboration, Van Leeuwen’s journey touches international shores for the first time. The awe-inspiring urban tapestry of Singapore welcomes the brand’s sumptuous offerings with open arms. Orchestrated in partnership with the esteemed local F&B group, Caerus Holding, which boasts a portfolio including beloved American establishments like Luke’s Lobster and Lady M New York, the opening of Van Leeuwen’s Singapore store at Orchard Central Units #01-19/20 marks an exciting milestone in the nation’s culinary narrative.
As the anticipation swells and the opening date inches closer, the streets of Singapore await the enchanting aroma and the heartwarming indulgence that Van Leeuwen promises to bring. Prepare to embark on a journey that merges cultures, flavours, and dreams as the timeless art of ice cream receives a whole new chapter in this urban paradise.