As we continue with the NYC food series, I want to talk about ice cream!! We visited this fun little ice cream shop Saturday night after dinner as part II of our date night! Most people know we are lovers of ice cream! Last year, we even visited the ice cream festival in Ohio.

Staying in the Upper West Side neighborhood, we found Van Leeuwen Ice Cream within a couple blocks, still on Columbus Avenue. A short line had formed outside despite a few pop up showers. It’s been so nice to walk around and see the streets of our neighborhood somewhat lively now that restaurants can offer outdoor dining options. One night, walking back from Central Park, we stumbled upon a singer in the middle of a side street, singing for restaurant guests on the adjacent sidewalks. It was beautiful! I think he was singing The Way You Look Tonight. And the twinkly lights and sun setting… so lovely!

Van Leeuwen ice cream began as a food truck in 2008 here in NYC with a mission to make people feel good! Their adorable aesthetic draws you in with the vibrant pastel colors and easy-to-read signs.

Darrell ordered a waffle cone with one scoop of cookies and cream. I ordered one scoop of honeycomb flavor ice cream (in a cup) with salted caramel topping! It was devine!

And in case you’re curious - Van Leeuwen ships nationwide!

Disclaimer: I am not a dietitian or medical professional and while I share what ingredients work for me or what I choose to eat (at my own risk) while dining out, I advise you do your homework when choosing ingredients and places to eat. I highly encourage everyone to do their own research when it comes to the products they cook with or restaurant’s procedures. I do not have celiac disease but rather a gluten-intolerance and I’m not an expert on gluten or other food intolerances, autoimmune diseases, or food allergies. I simply share the ingredients I have found work for me, the places where I’ve dined and my personal experiences.