Three words: EMPIRE ICE CREAM.
Started last year by a group of guys who have the right idea about ice cream. In their own words (courtesy of their website):
“Empire Ice Cream is a Seattle ice cream with an emphasis on using sustainable and local products. Using all-natural dairy from local cows, local and organic chocolate, and “fresh from the farms” produce, Empire makes the tastiest frozen confections in the city. The Empire was created when 3 friends, Aaron Andrews, Dustin Calery and Tom Durchman decided on opening a small neighborhood restaurant. Quickly realizing they were far short in the capital needed, their thoughts shifted to more realistic enterprises. With an accomplished background in the culinary field, the guys had the idea of making ice cream and sorbets using all local and natural ingredients. Starting the summer of 2007, Empire started selling its delicious, exciting and seasonal products to the masses at the Ballard Sunday Market. In 2008, we’ve expanded and will be found at more farmers markets, as well as Seattle restaurants that are champions of the “eat local” ideal.”
TIP: Check their site every week for the week’s flavors. These flavors are decided on a whim, made in small batches, and when they sell out, they’re out until (or unless) they make more. Currently, they are only available on Saturdays at the U-District Farmer’s Market (on 50th and University Way) and on Sundays at the Ballard Farmer’s Market (on Ballard Ave).
This weekend, my boyfriend Matt C. and I bought three 8 oz. containers of their frozen treats: Cacao Nib with Choco Swirl, Rhubarb ice cream and Rhubarb sorbet. The Rhubarb ice cream was our favorite — it was like having rhubarb pie filling swirled in a sweet cream base. Yum! Their “answer to chocolate” needs a little work, though. It’s great if you like that nibby texture, but the flavor was a bit lost in the un-chocolate base. Props are due, however, for using Theo chocolate based out of Fremont.
Last year, our favorite flavor was Sweet Corn with Caramel Swirl. I never got around to Carrot-Habañero sorbet, but maybe they’ll bring it back for an encore.
SEATTLEITE CLUE: If you only are in town during the week and want to taste their wares, you may be able to find the BEST ICE CREAM EVER at The Other Coast Cafe, located on Ballard Avenue.
