In Richmond’s Carytown district, Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream has been delighting locals and visitors alike since 1998 with its extraordinary handcrafted frozen treats. This cherished woman-owned establishment has become a cornerstone of the community, offering much more than just ice cream. For nearly 25 years, Bev’s has maintained its commitment to creating authentic, house-made delicacies that showcase the difference quality ingredients make.
A Community Hot Spot
“We put a lot of love and effort into everything we make,” shares a representative from Bev’s. Their dedication is evident in every scoop of ice cream, drizzle of hot fudge, and bite of their fresh-baked pastries. The shop has become a favorite destination for Richmonders after visiting the nearby Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, shopping along Carytown’s eclectic storefronts, or enjoying a stroll through Byrd Park.
This local spot stands as a testament to what happens when traditional methods and premium ingredients come together in creating “what great ice cream is all about.”
The Beginning of Bev’s
The story of Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream reflects a passionate commitment to craft that has remained unchanged since they first opened their doors. Each batch of ice cream is made on-site using time-honored techniques that preserve the rich, creamy texture and authentic flavors that factory-produced alternatives simply can’t match. Their hot fudge, a customer favorite, is simmered to perfection using a proprietary recipe that has remained a closely guarded secret for over a decade.
As Richmond’s food scene has developed, Bev’s has maintained its status as a beloved institution by staying true to its founding principles. “We’ve never compromised on quality,” notes the team at Bev’s, explaining their enduring popularity. The shop’s warm, welcoming atmosphere complements its delicious offerings, creating an experience that draws visitors back time and again.
For many Richmond families, a trip to Bev’s has become a cherished tradition passed down through generations, with parents who visited as children now bringing their own kids to experience the magic of truly handmade ice cream.
Beyond Ice Cream
In recent years, Bev’s Homemade Ice Cream has expanded its offerings beyond its famous frozen treats, venturing into specialty coffee drinks that have quickly gained a devoted following.
Inspired by their most popular ice cream flavors, Bev’s now offers an Espresso Oreo Latte that perfectly balances rich coffee with chocolatey cookie notes, a Cinnamon Roll Latte that captures the essence of freshly baked pastry, and a Butter Pecan Macchiato that delivers a nutty, caramelized sweetness. Each beverage is crafted with the same attention to detail as their ice cream, often topped with their signature fresh homemade whipped cream.
Beyond their storefront operations, Bev’s has developed a thriving events business that brings their delectable treats directly to customers. Their portable ice cream cart and tabletop sundae bar options have become increasingly popular for weddings, corporate gatherings, and private celebrations throughout Richmond.
“We’re booking up fast for our busy season that begins in May,” a team member explains. Those interested in securing Bev’s for their events are encouraged to inquire through their website’s “Ice Cream Social” tab, though they note that response times may vary due to high demand, especially during peak months.