A to Z Creamery Expands with New Soft-Serve Shop in Hopkins

A to Z Creamery, a celebrated artisan ice cream company based in Minneapolis, is set to open its first soft-serve ice cream shop at 705 Mainstreet in downtown Hopkins. The anticipated opening is scheduled for spring 2026. Founded by Zach Vraa, A to Z Creamery has garnered a loyal following for its unique, small-batch ice cream flavors, which range from classic Oreo to unconventional options like “basically pizza.”

This new venture marks a significant evolution for the company, transitioning from an online-only model to a physical storefront. The soft-serve shop will feature regular hours and offer a selection of small-batch baked goods alongside its ice cream products. Vraa initially launched A to Z Creamery using a second-hand ice cream maker, and the new soft-serve offering represents a fresh challenge. “Soft serve has to still have that creamy, soft mouthfeel but served at a warmer texture that holds its shape,” Vraa explained, highlighting the technical differences between soft serve and hard-pack ice cream.

A to Z Creamery plans to serve two flavors of soft serve: a consistent vanilla and a rotating “wild card” flavor that will change weekly, often in line with seasonal ingredients. For instance, Vraa mentioned a potential banana bread-flavored soft serve, artfully twisted with vanilla and accompanied by a slice of housemade banana bread and drizzled with hot fudge.

In addition to the new storefront, A to Z Creamery is exploring expanded availability of its pints through a partnership with MN Food Club. This online grocery service aims to connect local farmers with consumers, facilitating direct access to premium products. “Kind of like a farmers market Schwann’s,” Vraa described the service.

As construction of the new shop progresses, Vraa expressed confidence in the support A to Z Creamery has received in Hopkins. “The change can happen pretty easily, and we have a really loyal customer base,” he said. Meanwhile, the company will continue its popular flavor drops, where fans eagerly await the opportunity to purchase pints for pickup.

New Eateries and Culinary Developments in the Region

In related culinary news, the Lake Elmo City Council has approved plans for two new restaurants to occupy the city’s former fire station and parks building. Tap & Ladder will feature a casual atmosphere, complete with a self-pour beer wall and a diverse bar food menu. The venue will also include a dedicated children’s play area, full-view garage doors, and a spacious patio, all while honoring the city’s fire service and veterans.

The parks building will welcome a new location of Machete Cocina Mexicana, known for its oversized “Quesadillota,” a 21-inch corn quesadilla stuffed with various fillings. The proposal for the site was submitted by Brian Heidt, Amanda Urban, and Julian Ocampo, who plan to operate the two eateries separately.

In Minneapolis, Olive & Lamb has opened a new location at 1510 Como Av. SE, near the University of Minnesota. This “Select” site offers a variation of the original restaurant’s menu, featuring favorites such as gyros and build-your-own bowls. The restaurant aims to cater to the late-night crowd with options like gyro and feta-loaded French fries.

Another new establishment, Sushi Box, has opened at Eden Prairie’s Asia Mall. Marketed as Minnesota’s first sushi-by-weight restaurant, patrons can select from a variety of rolls and sashimi and pay only for what they choose. This innovative concept is open for lunch and dinner every day.

Fans of deep-dish pizza will be pleased to hear that Giordano’s, a well-known Chicago chain, plans to open at the Mall of America in spring 2026. This location will mark the chain’s second in Minnesota, with the first situated in Richfield.

In the North Loop, Red Cow has undergone a significant revamp after a brief closure. The restaurant now features a refreshed design and an expanded menu, including new items such as a fig and brie tartine and spare ribs. The bar will showcase a selection of top-shelf agave spirits, complementing an updated cocktail menu.

On a more somber note, Soberfish, a popular Thai and sushi restaurant, announced it will close its doors on November 14, after 11 years of service. The restaurant expressed gratitude to its patrons in a heartfelt Facebook post. Additionally, Gina Maria’s, a local pizza chain that had been in operation for 50 years, has closed all its locations. The company stated the decision was difficult but did not provide further details.

As the local dining scene continues to evolve, A to Z Creamery and other establishments are set to offer exciting new culinary experiences for residents and visitors alike.