Van Leeuwen Steps Out of the Truck

Sometimes, when I take the L train to Bedford Ave, I'll treat myself to a cone from the Van Leeuwen ice cream truck. The flavors are basic but special: pistachio made exclusively from Sicilian nuts, hazelnut made from a special smoky and buttery Italian grade. They all have a clean, creamy appeal.

A few months ago, Van Leeuwen opened a shop in Greenpoint, down on Manhattan Ave. It was still chilly out when I decided to check them out for a first time sundae.

The shop is small and cute. Flowers on every table. The man behind the tiny counter scoops the ice cream and brews the coffee.


The menu contains the same flavors as the truck, plus a few sundae options. The coffee menu spans the basics: espresso, americano, cappuccino, etc.

A hand drawn image of the original Van Leeuwen truck pays homage to its roots.


Rob and I split a mint chip sundae with hot fudge, nuts, fresh whipped cream and a cherry that tasted like it was marinading in something alcoholic. A very adultlike sundae.

I have a feeling that this place will get very busy this summer!

Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream
632 Manhattan Ave
(718) 701-1630