A Taste of New Zealand

A Fruity Soft Serve Transforms into a Decadent Dessert

WORDS DEVEN WILSON | PHOTOS BAPTISTE DESPOIS

Sitting comfortably on the corner of MLK Boulevard and Harvey Street, Zed’s Ice Cream tempts passersby to approach and try the advertised ice cream mentioned on their neon sign. A New Zealand method of making fruity soft serve delights all who venture in to try this island delight.

Their specialty, the honey crunch, is a frosty bite of banana mixed with notes of vanilla, honey, and buñuelo bits blended into a symphony of sweetness that distracts from the blistering summer heat. The banana flavor is not simply a syrup sprinkled in or manufactured but is perfectly blended through a unique New Zealand machine that led to the island nation's distinct soft serve. The mushy texture of the banana is absolutely absent in each bite. Only a gentle note of the flavor comes through and balances the sweetness of the honey. The crisp bundle pieces offer a delightful taste to counter the silky smooth texture of the ice cream.

Originally founded in Portland as a trailer, owners Caleb Schmidt and Matt Porter moved to Austin and opened their first brick-and-mortar. After opening, Zed’s took off and their families quickly established roots here. Through a chain of events, Caleb and Matt sold their small business to Mack Brown. Though Mack has no formal ice cream experience, he knows business and had the vision, so this opportunity to take over Zed’s was kismet.

Co-helming Zed’s with Mack is Trevor Brogan. The dynamic duo quickly learned to make this unique-to-Austin, New Zealand ice cream. Mack says that all you have to do is “put fruit and ice cream in the machine, and it’s done,” he laughs. “After that, you’ve just got to master your swirl.”

Patrons first have a choice of milk-based or nondairy vanilla ice cream. Using fresh fruit, there’s no artificial flavor to be found, and the notes of the fruit subtly shine in a delightful and enjoyable way. Anyone who likes a hint of fruity flavors in the cold treats will rejoice in the authentic taste of each soft and creamy bite of Zed’s Ice Cream.

CONTACT: zedsicecream.com

1814 Harvey St.

Fans remain hopeful to see their fruit-filled ice cream take over Austin. While they continue to run Zed’s, East Austin may soon see another pop-up as Mack plans to grow the business beyond their cozy corner on East MLK Jr. Boulevard.