Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream

For discerning ice cream enthusiasts across Virginia, particularly those in the Arlington area, Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream stands out as a truly exceptional destination. This esteemed ice cream shop has quickly become a local legend, celebrated for its unique, handcrafted flavors and a commitment to quality that places it among the very best. From classic favorites to adventurous, globally inspired creations, Mimi's offers an unparalleled experience that captivates both adults and children. It’s more than just a place to grab a scoop; it's a testament to the art of ice cream making, promising a delightful and memorable indulgence in the heart of Northern Virginia.

Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream has garnered a reputation that extends beyond its immediate neighborhood, attracting ice cream connoisseurs from across the country who seek out establishments that pride themselves on making their own ice cream. The secret to Mimi's success lies in its dedication to crafting all flavors from scratch, without additives or colorants, ensuring a pure and intense taste experience. The owner, Chef Rollin Amore, draws inspiration from his European heritage and extensive travels, particularly through Southeast Asia, leading to an exciting array of flavors that you simply won't find elsewhere. This commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients (when possible) and innovative flavor profiles, combined with genuinely friendly service, solidifies Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream as a truly remarkable spot in the Virginia dessert scene.

Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream is conveniently located at 1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202, USA. This address places it within the vibrant Pentagon Row area of Arlington, a bustling hub known for its retail, dining, and residential spaces. Its proximity to the Pentagon, Crystal City, and other major employment centers makes it an incredibly accessible spot for residents, office workers, and visitors alike. Whether you're coming from a day at work, enjoying an afternoon out, or just looking for a sweet treat, Mimi's is strategically positioned for easy access.

The accessibility of Mimi's is a significant advantage for locals in Northern Virginia. Located within Pentagon Row, there's typically ample parking available in the surrounding garages and lots, making it convenient for those arriving by car. Furthermore, Pentagon Row is highly accessible via public transportation, including the Pentagon City Metro station (on the Blue and Yellow Lines), which is within easy walking distance. This allows for a seamless visit whether you're driving, taking the Metro, or even walking from nearby residences or offices. The pleasant surrounding area, as noted by customers, also encourages visitors to relax and enjoy their time, making the journey to Mimi's an enjoyable part of the experience.

Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream offers an impressive and constantly evolving menu of handcrafted frozen delights. Their commitment to making all their ice creams, sorbets, and sherbets from scratch ensures a fresh and unique product. Here's a glimpse into their services and offerings:

• Handmade Ice Cream Flavors: They boast over 36 varieties at any given time, including both traditional favorites (like Butter Pecan) and a wide array of unique, globally inspired options. Examples include Blueberry Rosemary with Lemon Curd, Butterfly Pea with Coconut, Grilled Beets, Hojicha, Finocchio (Fennel), Guava, Snow Ginger, Peach & Cream, Wasabi Peas, Sweet Corn, Matcha, Ube (Filipino purple yam), Lychee (also as a sorbet), Thai Tea, Red Adzuki Bean, Sichuan Spicy Girl (savory with brown pepper corns, red chili oil, peanuts, dried red pepper flakes), Espresso, and Almond Biscotti.
• Sorbet & Sherbet: In addition to ice cream, they offer refreshing sorbets (like Mango Puree, Lychee, Red Guava) and sherbets (like Cucumber and Raspberry), providing dairy-free and lighter options.
• Adult/Boozy Flavors: For those seeking an extra kick, they feature flavors such as Drunken Cherry Choco, Rum Raisin, and Bailey's Irish Cream.
• Pints: Customers can purchase hand-packed pints to enjoy their favorite flavors at home, available in one or two flavors.
• Scoops: Available in Kiddie, Single Scoop, and Double Scoop sizes.
• Sundaes: Classic sundaes like the "All American Hot Fudge" and creative options like "Brownie Sundae" are available, allowing customization with your chosen ice cream flavor.
• Milkshakes & Floats: Creamy milkshakes and soda floats (with root beer or orange soda) can be made with any of their delicious ice cream flavors.
• Pup Cups: A thoughtful offering for canine companions, ensuring furry friends can also enjoy a treat.
• Flavor Sampling: Customers are encouraged to sample new flavors, with staff being patient and assisting in selections. This generous tasting policy helps customers discover new favorites without commitment.

Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream is distinguished by several outstanding features and highlights that contribute to its high acclaim:

• Unparalleled Flavor Innovation: This is arguably Mimi's biggest highlight. Their commitment to creating unique, "interesting-good" flavors, drawing from global inspirations (like ube, lychee, Sichuan Spicy Girl, Thai Tea), sets them apart from virtually any other ice cream shop. They are truly adventurous with their flavor profiles, ensuring a discovery with every visit.
• Homemade from Scratch: All ice creams, sorbets, and sherbets are made in-house, from scratch, using natural ingredients and no artificial additives or colorants. This dedication to craftsmanship results in superior taste and texture.
• Exceptional Quality: Customers consistently rate their ice cream as "high quality" and "top-notch flavor," even comparing it favorably to other highly-regarded ice cream shops across the country.
• Customer-Centric Service: The staff, including owners Alan and Lisa (though primarily Chef Rollin is mentioned as owner), are noted for their "genuinely friendly" and patient service, even close to closing time. This welcoming attitude enhances the overall customer experience.
• Generous Portions: Customers appreciate the "great portion sizes," ensuring a satisfying amount of ice cream for the price.
• Picky-Eater Approved: The fact that even an "extremely picky" child loved the ice cream speaks volumes about its universal appeal and deliciousness.
• Thoughtful Inclusivity: The availability of sorbets and potential vegan options (implied by "made from natural lychee" for lychee sorbet and general commitment to natural ingredients) broadens its appeal.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The "pleasant surrounding area" and the ability to "grab an ice cream, relax, and enjoy your time there" suggests a comfortable and inviting environment.

For those eager to experience the extraordinary flavors at Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream or to make an inquiry, here is their contact information:

Address: 1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202, USA

Phone: (571) 858-5457

Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in Virginia, particularly those residing in Arlington and the broader Northern Virginia region, for a multitude of compelling reasons. Firstly, its unwavering commitment to making all ice cream from scratch with natural ingredients truly sets it apart. In a market often saturated with mass-produced options, locals who value quality, authenticity, and unique culinary experiences will find Mimi's to be a refreshing and unparalleled choice. The adventurous and diverse flavor menu, inspired by global tastes, caters perfectly to the cosmopolitan and discerning palates common in the Northern Virginia area, encouraging residents to explore beyond traditional options.

Secondly, the combination of "high quality and top-notch flavor" with "genuinely friendly" and patient service creates an inviting and pleasant atmosphere that fosters loyalty. For local families, especially those with picky eaters, the fact that even the most selective children "LOVED the ice cream" is a powerful endorsement. This ensures that a visit to Mimi's is a guaranteed hit for everyone, making it an ideal spot for family outings or a satisfying treat after a long day.

Finally, the convenient location within Pentagon Row, coupled with easy parking and proximity to public transport, makes Mimi's a practical and accessible choice for daily indulgences or planned visits. The ability to grab a pint to go also means locals can enjoy these unique flavors in the comfort of their own homes. Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream offers not just delicious frozen treats, but an enriching culinary experience and a consistent source of delight, making it a truly cherished and suitable local gem for residents across Northern Virginia.

Mimi's Handmade Ice Cream

1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202, USA