Oregon’s Famous Salt & Straw Ice Cream Expands With New Shop in Aventura
Salt & Straw, the nationally recognized ice cream brand originally from Portland, Oregon, has officially opened its newest location in Aventura, Florida. The scoop shop is located at The Abbey, an open-air dining and retail district situated adjacent to the Aventura Mall. This opening marks the company’s continued expansion across South Florida, joining existing locations in Wynwood, Coconut Grove, and Lincoln Road.
The company was founded in 2011 by cousins Kim and Tyler Malek, starting as a single food cart in Portland before expanding to the West Coast and eventually nationwide. Salt & Straw built its reputation on a culinary-driven approach to ice cream, often referred to as “farm-to-cone.” The brand focuses on small-batch production and collaborations with local chefs and artisans. For the Aventura location, the menu includes signature classics such as Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons and Pear & Blue Cheese, alongside Florida-exclusive flavors like Panther Coffee Chocolate Tres Leches and The Salty Donut Guava + Cheese.
While the brand maintains a dedicated following, its premium positioning has drawn scrutiny regarding pricing and accessibility. A single scoop typically costs significantly more than standard ice cream parlor prices, which some consumers argue is expensive for the portion size. Furthermore, the company’s experimental approach—featuring savory ingredients like olive oil, blue cheese, and seasonal options that have historically included turkey or insects—can be polarizing for customers preferring traditional dessert profiles. New locations also frequently attract long lines, which may deter those seeking a quick dessert option.
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