Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Introduce
Welcome to Van Leeuwen Ice Cream in New Canaan, a truly unique and delightful addition to Connecticut's vibrant culinary scene. More than just your average ice cream parlor, Van Leeuwen brings its nationally renowned commitment to high-quality, made-from-scratch ice cream to the heart of Fairfield County. This beloved brand, with roots in New York City, has found a welcoming home in New Canaan, offering both classic dairy and exceptional vegan ice cream options that cater to every preference. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their distinctive flavors, a visit to Van Leeuwen promises an elevated ice cream experience that stands out in the local landscape.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream prides itself on crafting ice cream that isn't just delicious, but also made with integrity. Their philosophy revolves around using good ingredients to make good ice cream that makes you feel good. This commitment is evident in the rich, satisfying taste of their products. From their ultra-creamy French-style ice creams, which often use more cream and egg yolks than other brands, to their equally impressive range of vegan options, they ensure a premium experience for all. Customers consistently rave about the "delicious" ice cream, with specific praise for unique flavors like Honeycomb, which one reviewer described as "Phenomenal." The dedication to fresh, in-store preparations, such as making waffle bowls from scratch, further elevates the experience, demonstrating their passion for delivering exceptional quality in every scoop. It's this blend of artisanal craftsmanship, diverse offerings, and a genuine passion for ice cream that makes Van Leeuwen a must-visit spot in New Canaan.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is conveniently located at 88 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA. This prime address places it right in the heart of downtown New Canaan, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Elm Street is a bustling hub known for its charming shops, eateries, and vibrant community atmosphere, ensuring that Van Leeuwen is nestled in a highly visible and frequented area.
The location offers excellent accessibility. For those driving, New Canaan's downtown area typically provides various parking options, including street parking and nearby lots, allowing for a convenient stop. Being in a walkable downtown district also means that patrons can easily stroll over after shopping, dining, or enjoying other local attractions. This integration into the town's lively center makes a visit to Van Leeuwen Ice Cream a seamless part of a day out in New Canaan. For residents of surrounding Fairfield County towns such as Darien, Norwalk, or Stamford, reaching New Canaan via major local roads is straightforward, making this scoop shop a viable and enticing destination for a special treat. The central location not only offers ease of access but also enhances the overall experience by placing you amidst the charming local ambiance of New Canaan.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream offers a comprehensive range of services and products designed to cater to a diverse array of preferences, ensuring that every visit is a delightful one.
- Dairy Ice Cream: A wide selection of their signature French-style ice cream, known for its rich and creamy texture. Popular flavors include Honeycomb, Cookies & Cream, Earl Grey Tea, Mint Chip, and Sicilian Pistachio, among many others.
- Vegan Ice Cream: Van Leeuwen is highly celebrated for its extensive and delicious range of plant-based vegan ice creams, crafted from cashew milk, coconut cream, and oat milk. Options often include flavors like Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough, Vegan Peanut Butter Brownie Honeycomb, and various unique seasonal vegan offerings.
- Freshly Made Waffle Bowls: Customers rave about their "fresh in store" made waffle bowls, providing a warm, crispy, and aromatic complement to any scoop.
- Sundaes, Shakes & Floats: Beyond scoops, they offer classic ice cream parlor favorites such as decadent sundaes with various toppings, rich milkshakes (including malted options), and refreshing ice cream floats.
- Pints To-Go: For those who wish to enjoy their favorite flavors at home, pints are available for takeout.
- Party Packs & Event Catering: Van Leeuwen also offers party packs for simpler DIY setups and can provide ice cream trucks, carts, or tabletop service with staff for larger events like weddings, corporate gatherings, and private parties.
- Takeout and Delivery: Customers can enjoy their treats directly at the scoop shop or order for takeout and delivery through various platforms.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream in New Canaan boasts several compelling features and highlights that set it apart and contribute to its strong reputation among locals and visitors alike.
- Exceptional Quality Ice Cream: A primary highlight is the high quality of their ice cream, both dairy and vegan. Customers consistently describe the ice cream as "delicious" and "phenomenal," underscoring the brand's commitment to superior ingredients and meticulous preparation.
- Fresh, In-Store Waffle Bowls: The fact that they make "the waffle bowls fresh in store!!" is a significant draw, adding a warm, fragrant, and perfectly crispy element that elevates the entire ice cream experience.
- Diverse Flavor Portfolio: Van Leeuwen offers an impressive array of over 30 signature flavors, ensuring there's always something new and exciting to try, from classic comforts to unique and adventurous creations like Honeycomb, Earl Grey Tea, and Marionberry Cheesecake.
- Robust Vegan Options: Their dedication to high-quality vegan ice cream is a major highlight, providing delicious and satisfying alternatives for those with dietary restrictions or preferences, without compromising on taste or texture.
- Polite and Patient Staff: Customer reviews consistently praise the staff for being "so polite and patient." This friendly and helpful service significantly enhances the overall experience, making every visit enjoyable.
- Artisanal Approach: The brand is known for its "French style" ice cream, using more cream and egg yolks for a richer, custard-like texture, distinguishing it from many other ice cream purveyors.
- Connecticut Roots: Co-founders Ben and Pete Van Leeuwen are Fairfield County natives, and the New Canaan location marks a return to their hometown state, adding a special local connection to this nationally popular brand.
For direct inquiries, current flavor updates, or any other questions you may have, please feel free to contact Van Leeuwen Ice Cream in New Canaan using the information provided below:
Address: 88 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA
Phone: (203) 594-1288
Mobile Phone: +1 203-594-1288
The friendly team at Van Leeuwen Ice Cream is ready to assist you and help you discover your next favorite scoop.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream in New Canaan is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals across Connecticut, particularly those in Fairfield County, for a multitude of compelling reasons. Its prime location on Elm Street in downtown New Canaan ensures effortless accessibility, whether you're taking a leisurely stroll through the charming town center or driving in from a neighboring community. The convenience of parking and its integration within a vibrant shopping and dining district make it an ideal stop for a delightful treat.
What truly sets Van Leeuwen apart and makes it perfect for local palates is its unwavering commitment to quality and variety. The "delicious" ice cream, both dairy and the equally impressive vegan options, ensures there's a high-quality choice for everyone, regardless of dietary preferences. The unique and constantly evolving flavor menu, featuring fan favorites like Honeycomb and Earl Grey Tea, means that every visit offers a fresh and exciting experience. The added delight of "fresh in store" made waffle bowls elevates the simple act of enjoying ice cream into a truly gourmet experience that locals will appreciate for its attention to detail.
Beyond the incredible flavors, the exceptional customer service, characterized by "polite and patient" staff, creates a welcoming and pleasant atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. While the price might be on the higher side, as noted by a customer, the general consensus is that it's "worth the pricey price" for the quality and experience received. For Connecticut residents seeking an artisanal, high-quality ice cream experience with diverse options and outstanding service in a charming local setting, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream in New Canaan is not just suitable; it's a premier destination that perfectly encapsulates the joy of a truly good scoop. It offers a sophisticated yet approachable indulgence that perfectly fits the local lifestyle.
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Details
Service options
- Delivery
- In-store shopping
- Takeout
Popular for
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Dining options
- Table service
Atmosphere
- Casual
Crowd
- Family-friendly
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Photos










Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Location
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
88 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840, USA
Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Reviews
veganhoneycombscoopsbrowniebrown sugarconesamplingice crystalssweet potatosundae
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Ice cream was delicious! Made the waffle bowls fresh in store!! Would definitely come back again!
July 18 · Abigail BishopI stopped into the Van Leeuwen and ordered a honeycomb ice cream with my friend. Phenomenal. The staff was so polite and patient, and the ice cream was delicious. Definitely recommend, and it’s worth the pricey price.
January 25 · c nFriendly guys at the counter and delicious ice cream! Love the brown sugar brownie! Nice tables inside to sit!
May 25 · Jim WThe ice cream is absolutely dreamy—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. I tried the sour cherry and cream and my child had strawberry sorbet and both were out of this world. You can really tell they use high-quality ingredients, and there’s so much love in every scoop.
April 22 · TatsianaHands down the best ice cream ever! It’s creamy and delicious yet not too heavy! I only go for ice cream at Van Leeuwen since no other ice cream satisfies my dessert craving like it!
May 31 · Sarah Erum
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