Why I’m Starting an Ice Cream Business
It starts small - with a cart. But the dream is big.
Fabled Ice Cream is coming this summer 2025!
Flavors inspired by books, because what’s more fun that reading and ice cream?
I’m launching a new business: an ice cream cart selling small-batch made premium ice cream inspired by books. My long-term goal is opening a brick-and-mortar scoop shop in the Fort Hunt neighborhood. We don’t have a classic hard scoop shop nearby, and I want to create one. Not just because I think it could be a fun business to run, but because it’s something I personally wish existed!
For Fabled Ice Cream I picture a place where my family can hang out on a summer night. Where kids grow up discovering their favorite flavor. A neighborhood hub where you might bump into someone you haven’t seen in a while while waiting in line for a waffle cone. A place that becomes part of the rhythm of life here. That’s the kind of community space I want to build.
On a personal level, this business has been deeply creatively fulfilling. I love food, and developing flavors has been such a joyful process. It’s a real challenge, in the best way, to combine ingredients and test recipes. Which is right in my wheelhouse. Years ago, I worked as a recipe tester for The Washington Post cookbook and several others. It’s been so fun to flex those muscles again in the kitchen.
And while ice cream is fun, I also believe it can be smart. Even in an uncertain economy, there’s something enduring about a local ice cream shop. It’s nostalgic, comforting, and celebratory. It brings people together. And the business case? I think it works. The numbers make sense. The neighborhood is ready.
So yes, it starts with a cart. But what I’m really building is something sweeter: a place for memories, community, and of course, a really good scoop.
Thanks for following along. For all the updates follow us on Instagram @fabledicecream or visit fabledicecream.com (coming soon!)
I can’t wait to share more as the business grows. If you’re local, keep an eye out for our first pop-ups this summer. Our inaugural event is June 7th at Hotel AKA Alexandria - it sold out quickly, but more dates around town will be posted soon.
And if you’re a fellow ice cream lover, I’d love to know: what bookish flavor should I make next?
- Ally
