Detroit Water Ice Factory

In the heart of downtown Detroit, a local treasure offers a unique and refreshing twist on the traditional ice cream shop experience. Detroit Water Ice Factory, located on the iconic Woodward Avenue, is not just a place to get a sweet treat; it’s an institution with a mission. The brainchild of author Mitch Albom, this establishment follows a philanthropic model, where all profits are dedicated to helping Detroit's neediest citizens through the S.A.Y. Detroit foundation. This commitment to giving back to the community is deeply woven into the fabric of the business, making every purchase a contribution to a greater cause. For locals, visiting this shop is a way to enjoy a delicious dessert while also supporting a business that is actively working to make Detroit a better place. The unique combination of an excellent product and a powerful mission creates an experience that is both satisfying and meaningful.

The core product at Detroit Water Ice Factory is, as the name suggests, water ice. It's a dessert that is often confused with Italian ice, but has its own distinct, smooth, and creamy texture. One customer review perfectly captures the appeal, describing it as a "slushie-type ice cream" with an "amazing selection." The menu boasts a wide variety of flavors, many of which are cleverly named to celebrate Detroit's culture and history, from "Bo's Black Cherry Bordeaux" to "Zetterberry." This playful and localized approach to their flavors adds another layer of charm that resonates with local patrons. The shop also offers frozen custard, and a review points out that they have increased their selection to mix with the water ice, providing even more customizable options. This blend of water ice and frozen custard, known as a "Motown Twist," is a signature creation that combines the refreshing nature of water ice with the rich creaminess of custard, a perfect representation of the store's inventive spirit.

The experience at Detroit Water Ice Factory is consistently praised for its friendly and helpful staff. One customer review highlights this, stating that the employees were "exceptionally polite and helpful" and made them "feel welcomed." This level of customer service is a crucial part of what makes a business a local favorite. It’s a place where you're not just a customer, but a valued member of the community. Another review mentions a dog-friendly atmosphere, with a special treat provided for their pet, which further underscores the welcoming and community-oriented nature of the shop. This kind of attention to detail and care for both human and animal patrons sets the Detroit Water Ice Factory apart. It's clear that the staff takes pride in their work and enjoys creating a positive environment for everyone who walks through their doors.

Beyond the delicious treats, the brand's connection to the city runs deep. The menu includes items with Detroit-centric names, like the popular "Motown Mash," which one customer described as "very sweet, thick, and if you love chocolate chips this treat is for you." The description of the Motown Mash as something two people could share also speaks to the generous portion sizes, offering great value for customers. In addition to water ice and frozen custard, the shop also offers other locally-inspired products like "Brown Bag Popcorn," which has grown into its own brand, and Philly Pretzels, adding a savory counterpoint to the sweet menu. This diverse range of products makes it a versatile spot, suitable for a quick snack or a full dessert experience.

Detroit Water Ice Factory is centrally located at 1014 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226. This prime spot on Woodward Avenue, a major downtown thoroughfare, makes it an easily accessible destination. The shop is a great stop for people exploring the downtown area, whether they are on their lunch break, attending a game, or simply enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere. Parking in the downtown area can be challenging, but the store's website provides a helpful list of nearby parking garages and lots, including One Detroit Center and The Z Park, as well as street parking options on Griswold and Fort Street. This proactive guidance ensures that customers can plan their visit with ease, making the journey to get their favorite treat as smooth as possible.

Detroit Water Ice Factory offers a focused yet diverse menu of treats, with a few popular specialties.

• Water Ice: Their signature product, a smooth, non-dairy, and fat-free dessert with an amazing selection of flavors, many with Detroit-themed names.
• Motown Twist: A unique blend of water ice with soft-serve frozen custard, available in vanilla, chocolate, or a twist.
• Frozen Custard: A creamy alternative to water ice, available to be mixed with water ice or enjoyed on its own.
• Motown Mash: A popular treat, described as a thick and sweet creation perfect for chocolate chip lovers.
• Brown Bag Popcorn: Handcrafted, gourmet popcorn available in a variety of flavors.
• Philly Pretzels: A savory snack that complements their sweet offerings.

The features that make Detroit Water Ice Factory a truly special place are tied to its community spirit and unique offerings.

• Philanthropic Mission: All profits go to the S.A.Y. Detroit foundation, making every purchase a donation to a great cause.
• Unique Product: The star of the show is the water ice, a smooth, delicious alternative to traditional ice cream, with many unique flavor options.
• Community-Centric Naming: Flavors are named in a fun, Detroit-themed style, from sports figures to local landmarks.
• Exceptional Customer Service: As noted in customer reviews, the staff is known for being polite, helpful, and welcoming.
• Dog-Friendly: They welcome dogs and even offer them special treats, which is a great bonus for pet owners.

For those who wish to visit or contact this unique Detroit establishment, here is the essential information.

Address: 1014 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA

Phone: (313) 888-9106

In conclusion, Detroit Water Ice Factory is the perfect spot for locals in Michigan because it's a business that truly embodies the spirit of the city. It offers a unique and delicious product that stands out in the crowded dessert market, providing a fun and refreshing alternative to traditional ice cream. The friendly and welcoming staff, as well as the dog-friendly policy, create an environment that feels like a genuine community space. Most importantly, the philanthropic mission of the business gives every customer a chance to contribute to a worthy cause, making a simple indulgence feel purposeful. For Detroit residents, this is more than just a place to get a dessert; it’s a place to celebrate their city's unique culture and support a business that is actively working to improve the lives of their neighbors.

Detroit Water Ice Factory

1014 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, USA