It’s officially summertime, and that means it’s official ice cream time. Here’s a quick look at some of what’s happening on the Asheville ice cream scene:
–Ultimate Ice Cream: Did you know that you can subscribe to an ice cream CSA? For $23 a month, you’ll get four pints of ice cream. Usually there’s a theme to each month, but by subscribing, you’ll be treated to special flavors created just for the CSA. (Get eight pints for $46; there are dairy and vegan flavors.) You pick up the ice cream at an Ultimate location.
–The Hop Ice Creamery: Get over to Sugar Alley (nickname for the stretch of Haywood Road that’s home to The Hop Ice Creamery, Hole doughnuts and Short Street Cakes) and try The Hop’s ice cream tacos. The Hop has amazingly creative flavors, from “grilled corn” to “pineapple salsa sorbet” and everything in between.
Keep your eye on some new outdoor events at The Hop Ice Creamery (167 Haywood Road). Owner Greg Garrison says he’s fixed up an outdoor loading dock area to begin hosting more events. Metalworker David Earl Tomlinson has created bike racks for the space. Garrison says he’s reaching out to the local biking community and will host a benefit for Asheville on Bikes from 4-7 p.m. on July 14.
“There aren’t as many family friendly events for the cycling community,” Garrison says. “This is a way to encourage families to ride their bikes” to a family-friendly destination.
Look for a dog-friendly ice cream social in August, Garrison adds.
–Sunshine Sammies: Susie Pearson started her business a handful of years ago with a food truck and solar-powered cart. Now she’s graduated to a brick-and-mortar location at 99 S. Lexington Ave. (the former Motovicious motorcycle shop). The location officially opened Friday, so get over there to check out Pearson’s giant ice cream sandwiches made with fresh-baked cookies. Sunshine Sammies will also feature a selection of ice cream floats, milkshakes and more.