Reddit Sentiment for VAN LEEUWEN ICE CREAM(based on 29 Reddit opinions)
Details
This ice cream shop is frequently mentioned as a great late-night dessert option, with some locations open as late as 1 AM [1]. Customers rave about unique flavors like Sour Cherries and Cream, describing it as 'unreal good' [2]. The Madagascar vanilla is noted for its rich, custard-like quality, and an ice cream cake flavor replicates the experience of eating ice cream cake with frosting chunks [3].
Food Overview
Van Leeuwen is lauded for its unique and rich ice cream flavors. The Sour Cherries and Cream is a particular standout, described as 'unreal good' [1]. Madagascar vanilla is noted for its custard-like consistency, and a cookies and cream flavor is praised for its cake-like texture and frosting chunks [2]. There are also extensive vegan and non-dairy options available [3].
Highlights / Recommended
"Standout flavors include Sour Cherries and Cream, Madagascar vanilla (described as rich and custard-like), and a Cookies and Cream that mimics ice cream cake. The Black Cherry Chip is also a highly praised favorite, especially as a milkshake [1], [2], [3]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •sour cherries and cream(2)
Caveats
One user reported a negative experience where cash was not accepted for ice cream but was taken for tips, and another noted that Van Leeuwen was fined for not accepting cash payments [1]. There is also a discussion about the brand's VC backing, with some criticizing its perceived authenticity [2]. The ginger ice cream, previously praised, is no longer available [3].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About VAN LEEUWEN ICE CREAM
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Whats The Best Gingerforward Food Or Drink Youve
"States they have never seen Van Leeuwen's ginger ice cream at their local branch."
NeutralFrom post: Whats The Best Gingerforward Food Or Drink Youve
"Confirms that Van Leeuwen's ginger ice cream has not been available for a long time."
NegativeFrom post: Whats The Best Gingerforward Food Or Drink Youve
"Asks if Van Leeuwen's ginger ice cream is no longer available, expressing surprise."
NeutralFrom post: Whats The Best Gingerforward Food Or Drink Youve
"Recalls Van Leeuwen's former ginger ice cream as spicy, creamy, and excellent, wishing for its return."
PositiveFrom post: Where Are The Best Milkshakes In Nyc Right Now
"This user mentioned Van Leeuwen for their ability to turn interesting ice cream flavors like Earl Grey, Honeycomb, and Sicilian Pistachio into shakes."
PositiveFrom post: What Is The Best Dish Youve Had In 2026 And Where
"This user highlighted the Earl Grey and Honeycomb ice cream at Van Leeuwen, noting it stood out among other flavors."
PositiveFrom post: Visited For My Sisters Wedding Had 25 Days To
"The overall experience was mediocre ('meh'), but the dulce de leche cookies and cream flavor was exceptional, making the reviewer feel like they were 'levitating'."
NeutralFrom post: I Wish There Were More Cute Nonalcoholictreat
"The user was surprised to find that their local Van Leeuwen ice cream shop is open until midnight."
PositiveFrom post: Cherry Dessertsdrinks
"This commenter added that the black cherry chip ice cream from Van Leeuwen is even better as a milkshake, calling it 'absolute heaven on earth'."
PositiveFrom post: Cherry Dessertsdrinks
"The black cherry chip ice cream from Van Leeuwen is highly praised as a favorite flavor."
PositiveFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"States Van Leeuwen has private equity investment for expansion but is still largely family-owned."
NeutralFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Critiques Van Leeuwen's slogan and trademarking costs, deeming the slogan lazy and awful."
NegativeFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Categorizes Van Leeuwen as a 'good' VC-backed case due to its local success and expansion, unlike sudden overnight successes."
PositiveFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Praises Van Leeuwen for its extensive vegan and non-dairy options, seeking alternatives."
PositiveFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Notes that Van Leeuwen was fined for not accepting cash payments."
NeutralFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Defends Van Leeuwen's deliciousness, dismissing counter-arguments."
PositiveFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Has mixed feelings about Van Leeuwen's expansion into national grocery stores after receiving funding."
NeutralFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Recounts a negative experience at Van Leeuwen where cash was not accepted for ice cream but was taken for tips."
NegativeFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Considers Van Leeuwen a success story that expanded locally, not a villain, and appreciates its product integrity."
PositiveFrom post: Vc And Private Equity Owned Spots
"Suggests that Van Leeuwen's VC backing is obvious, criticizing its perceived lack of authenticity."
Negative