Whitey's Ice Cream

whiteys bettendorf iowa

For anyone in the Quad Cities, the name "Whitey's Ice Cream" is synonymous with a regional tradition of quality and flavor. The Bettendorf, Iowa, location at 3515 Middle Rd is a cherished part of this legacy, serving up the same delicious, creamy treats that have made the brand famous since 1933. Founded by Chester “Whitey” Lindgren in Moline, IL, and later purchased by the Tunberg family in 1953, Whitey's has grown from a single-store operation into a local chain with a reputation that extends far beyond the Midwest. The Bettendorf store, which opened in 1984, was one of the first locations to cross the Mississippi River into Iowa, solidifying its place in the community. What draws so many customers, both new and old, is the consistent quality and the unmistakable "super smooth" texture of the ice cream, which is a hallmark of the brand. It’s a place where families make memories, friends gather for a sweet treat, and locals proudly share a taste of their hometown with visitors.

The success of Whitey's can be attributed to its unwavering commitment to a quality product, a clean environment, fair prices, and a knowledgeable, friendly staff. This philosophy has been in place for generations, with current co-owners Jeff and Jon Tunberg continuing the legacy their father, Bob Tunberg, started. The company's innovative spirit is also a key part of its history. Whitey's credits itself with pioneering several innovations that have become standard in the ice cream industry, including high-powered malt machines to make extra-thick shakes, and the invention of candy bar shakes and chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. These innovations are part of what gives Whitey's its unique edge and a reputation for being not just an ice cream shop, but a leader in the frozen dessert world. This commitment to innovation and quality is recognized beyond the Quad Cities, with Whitey's having been named "Best in the Midwest" by Midwest Living Magazine and voted one of the "Best Ice Cream Shops in the World" by Condé Nast Traveler.

The experience at Whitey's is consistently positive, as reflected in customer reviews. Patrons praise the "pleasant employees" who are always in uniform, contributing to a professional and clean atmosphere. While one reviewer mentioned the disappointment of no samples, a common practice at some establishments, the quality of the ice cream itself more than makes up for it. The store is often a bustling hub of activity, with one review noting that it is "always much busier and much better than Dairy Queen," a testament to its popularity and reputation among locals. This loyalty is deeply rooted in the community's affection for the brand, which is seen as a source of local pride. Whether you're a lifelong resident or just passing through, a visit to Whitey's is an essential Quad Cities experience that truly captures the local spirit.

The Bettendorf Whitey's Ice Cream is conveniently located at 3515 Middle Rd, Bettendorf, IA 52722, USA. Situated in a prime location, it is easily accessible for residents and visitors from all parts of Bettendorf and the surrounding areas. The store’s presence on Middle Road makes it a simple and direct destination to reach by car. The area provides ample parking, ensuring that even during peak hours, customers can find a spot to enjoy their ice cream.

This particular location is a staple for many people in the community, serving as a landmark for a fun family outing or a quick treat. The accessibility and clear visibility of the store make it an easy choice for anyone with a craving for quality ice cream. While the store itself is a walk-up counter service inside, its central location and proximity to other businesses make it a convenient stop in the daily routine of many local users.

Whitey's Ice Cream offers a wide array of frozen delights that cater to every taste. Their menu is extensive, but focuses on high-quality, signature items.

• Ice Cream Scoops: Whitey's offers a massive selection of ice cream flavors, with over 30 or more available at any time. These are served in cones (sugar, cake, or waffle) or cups in a variety of sizes. Popular customer-approved flavors include Chocolate Brownie and John Deere (a lemon and lime blend). Some unique flavors mentioned in their menu listings include Sgt. Camo (graham cracker and marshmallow with fudge) and Gummy Bear ice cream.
• Shakes & Malts: Whitey's is famous for its "extra thick shakes and malts," which are so thick they can be held upside down. This is a signature feature and a major highlight for customers. They offer a wide variety of flavors, including regular, special, and gourmet options, and even have "lite" shakes made with fat-free ice cream.
• Sundaes and Splits: The menu features a variety of classic and specialty sundaes like Turtle, Tin Roof, Cherry Bon Bon, and the popular Brownie Under. Customers can also get the classic Banana Split.
• Novelties: Whitey's offers a selection of novelties, including their popular Chippers and Mint Chippers, which are two homemade cookies with ice cream in the middle. Other options include Mini Malts and Dixie Cups.
• Custom Creations: The store is known for its ability to create custom drinks and treats, with a wide variety of flavored shakes, malts, and ice cream combinations available.
• Wholesale and Shipping: For those who can't get enough, Whitey's ice cream is available for wholesale purchase in grocery stores across eight states in the Midwest. They also offer nationwide shipping via FedEx, allowing fans to enjoy a taste of the Quad Cities anywhere in the country.

Whitey's Ice Cream stands out for several key reasons that make it a local favorite and a regional landmark.

• Signature Smooth Texture: A defining characteristic of Whitey's ice cream is its "super smooth" consistency, which customers consistently praise. This high-quality texture is a major factor in its popularity.
• Variety of Flavors: With over 30 flavors available, including unique and seasonal options like John Deere, there is always something new and exciting to try, ensuring that customers never get bored.
• Award-Winning Reputation: Whitey's has been recognized with numerous accolades, including being named "Best in the Midwest" and one of the "Best Ice Cream Shops in the World," which speaks volumes about the quality of its products.
• Extra-Thick Shakes and Malts: The famous "upside-down" shakes and malts are a unique feature that customers love and are a testament to the quality and care that goes into each order.
• Local Heritage and Pride: As a local chain with a rich history dating back to 1933, Whitey's is a source of immense pride for the Quad Cities community. Its independent spirit and history of innovation are key parts of its brand identity.
• Friendly and Professional Staff: The positive reviews about the employees, who are described as "pleasant" and "in uniform," contribute to a clean, efficient, and enjoyable customer experience.

To get your own scoop of Whitey's Ice Cream, you can visit them or call at the following:

Address: 3515 Middle Rd, Bettendorf, IA 52722, USA

Phone: (563) 332-4189

Whitey's Ice Cream is more than just a place to get dessert for the people of Bettendorf; it's a cherished institution and a source of local pride. Its rich history, dating back to 1933, and its deep roots in the Quad Cities community make it a true local gem. For residents, a trip to Whitey's is often a nostalgic experience, a continuation of family traditions passed down through generations. The store’s commitment to quality is evident in every scoop, from the "super smooth" texture to the extensive and creative flavor selection. Its reputation for having "much better" ice cream than competitors, as noted by a local customer, is a testament to its standing in the community. The friendly and professional staff ensure that every visit is a positive one, while the convenience of its location on Middle Road makes it an easy and accessible stop for anyone in the area. By offering classic favorites alongside innovative creations and maintaining its high standards, Whitey's Ice Cream has solidified its place as the premier destination for frozen treats in Bettendorf, making it the perfect place for locals to satisfy their sweet cravings and feel connected to a piece of their city's history.

Whitey's Ice Cream

3515 Middle Rd, Bettendorf, IA 52722, USA