Ordering an ice cream cone without knowing what flavor you're getting – for 10 dollars a scoop? In Manhattan, a new ice cream parlor is causing a stir by appealing to customer curiosity.
A novel concept is causing a stir in Manhattan: The ice cream parlor Surprise Scoop in the East Village has neither a menu or a counter, customers simply recieve a randomly selected flavor at pickup. Called "flavor roulette", it's certainly a gamble, considering they charge 10 dollars per scoop. While some celebrate the concept as a fun foodie challenge for the adventurous, others consider it an overpriced gimmick.
Usually, half the fun of getting ice cream is picking your flavors, whether you choose classics like chocolate and vanilla, or go for something unusual like matcha, tahini or salted caramel. But things are different at "Surprise Scoop": no colorful sign proudly listing their many flavors, no staff to advise you and no samples. You order via a digital kiosk – and the only item on the menu is "surprise ice cream". Only allergies and dietary requirements can be specified in advance, otherwise the decision is random, with the flavors changing daily.
The purchase itself also has a special twist: Orders are given out from a small window that opens in the wall of the store, served in a cup – and without any comment or indication of the flavor. A concept that oscillates between fascination and frustration.
Officially, Surprise Scoop keeps shtum about the size and scope of their selection, to maintain the mystique and keep customers guessing. But reports from guests sharing their experience are piling up on social media. Some report classic flavors such as dark chocolate, salted caramel or raspberry sorbet, while others come across more daring combinations: Wasabi lemon, lavender honey with black pepper or jalapeño mango. One variety with Hot Cheetos and cream cheese swirl seems particularly bizarre, apparently provoking polarizing reactions. Certain exotic flavors have yet to be identified.
Some particularly eager patrons are trying to trace which varieties are actually in the repertoire through posts on Instagram. According to insiders, the store will confirm in the comments whenever someone guesses a flavor correctly. But while some praise the creativity of the concept, there are a fair share of detractors: Some report that the consistency of the ice cream is not always ideal – sometimes too firm, sometimes too runny – and that the taste is not always convincing. But if you like surprises, you might like the idea.
