In a world full of classic ice cream flavours, local shops in Manitoba are keeping things fresh by offering a wide variety of unique and sometimes unexpected tastes.
From bold new creations to nostalgic favourites, these flavours keep customers curious and coming back for more.
One flavour that stands out as a regional icon is blue licorice; a vivid, distinct treat that has become synonymous with the Prairies.
Blue licorice ice cream is a treat known primarily in Manitoba and some parts of the US. Though its flavour profile varies, sometimes described as similar to Blue Moon ice cream or with hints of marshmallow, amaretto, or vanilla pudding, its distinctive taste has built a cult following.
The bright blue colour is achieved with blue gel food colouring, making it as visually striking as it is unique.
Local shop keeps the tradition alive
Rhonda Lodwick, owner of What’s the Scoop? ice cream parlour located on Saskatchewan Avenue West in Portage la Prairie, says the shop has proudly served this iconic flavour through its 10 seasons in business.
She notes the blue licorice is a must-have for many customers.
“We try and keep in a black licorice. So whether it’s Tiger, Tiger or Blue licorice, there’s always someone that’s coming in for that,” Lodwick remarks. “We try and constantly have that in, but every now and then it gets changed out and it makes people more eager when it comes back in.”
The shop carries 30 flavours of hard ice cream, which rotate regularly to keep customers interested. Aside from blue licorice, popular choices include cookies and cream, cookie dough, superhero, and bubble gum.
"Definitely cookies and cream and strawberry cheesecake are popular, but we bring in some fantastic flavours and we know there's people that come in just for those flavours, so bear claw's knew this year and people just keep coming."
Lodwick mentions customers enjoy revisiting nostalgic favourites but remain open to new tastes.
“It certainly seems like people are always willing to try new things. I know in the next few weeks, we have a banana cream pie coming, a peanut butter boss, so it’s just kind of fun to change them out and see how they respond to it.”
A good season despite challenges
The past 10 years have flown by for Lodwick and her team, with interruptions caused by the pandemic and construction around the shop. But this year’s weather has been “quite cooperative,” she adds.
“It seems to rain in the evenings, late at night, and then sunny when we need to sell ice cream. So it’s perfect,” she notes.
“After 10 seasons, it’s nice to see that we’ve got supporters even in that pouring rain, they still come out for ice cream,” Lodwick adds. The shop also offers takeout options, allowing customers to grab pies or treats to enjoy at home.
Supporting local business through challenges
Like many businesses, What’s the Scoop? has faced price increases likely tied to tariffs and other costs. Lodwick says they have done their best to keep prices reasonable by stocking up early and supporting local suppliers.
“We did buy a lot in the start of the year just to stay ahead of the tariffs. buying Manitoba-made ice cream, I think that helps. It helps support local businesses and it ensures that we always have ice cream,” she says.
Community support a cornerstone
Lodwick expresses gratitude for the ongoing support from the community.
“The support in the community is fantastic and we do our best to give back where we can. I can’t thank the community enough for embracing us and still visiting us.”
With no major changes planned beyond maintaining a clean and inviting picnic area, What’s the Scoop? continues to be a place where Manitobans can enjoy classic and unique ice cream flavours, including the iconic blue licorice, well into the future.
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