PNW's Artisanal Ice Cream Makes it to Los Angeles
'Part luck, party strategy and part love (for ice cream, family, and local foods)' was the winning combination that fueled the success of this Portland based, LA transplant ice cream shop. In the heart of Larchmont Village, the first one of it’s ‘LA kind’, a simple yet inviting storefront for Salt & Straw is where the ice creamery magic happens. It all started as Kim Malek, co-founder of Salt & Straw, turned her dream into a reality with cousin, Tyler Malek, as they opened the first location of Salt & Straw in Portland Oregon. The dream began in 1996, of a place filled with people from the community catching up over a classic ice cream scoop. After realizing she and her cousin Tyler were on similar paths of culinary desire, they joined forces to start what is now the great and creative, Salt & Straw.
After success in Portland, the Malek family decided to see if they could continue their success in the very sunny and very populated city we love so much, LA. After striking up relationships with local growers, chefs, and producers like himself, Tyler, Salt & Straw's head ice cream maker, has discovered flavor combinations you’ve probably never heard of. Avocado and Strawberry Sherbet, Black Olive Brittle and Goat Cheese, and Toasted Coconut with Candied Macadamia Nuts just name a few of these wildly unique flavor combinations.
‘The inspiration comes from the collaborators’, says Tyler on his seemingly endless flavor ideas. It was never just an ice cream shop that the Maleks wanted to open. Their dream was to create a place for other artisans in the community to showcase their products as well. A place to bump into neighbors in the area. A place to reward yourself. A place ultimately where strong relationships could be built, both amongst the community and the local businesses they purchase from. I'd say they've done a fantastic job.
For the really serious artisanal ice cream lovers, Salt & Straw offers The Pint Club. You pay $65 a month and 5 pints of brand new locally sourced seasonal flavors are delivered to your doorstep. Whether it's delivered to your doorstep, or enjoyed at the shop, Salt & Straw is worth the taste.
240 N Larchmont Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90004