Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Opening Near Eastern Market
by Larry Janezich
Posted June 17, 2024
This morning, a workman put up signage on the front of the space formerly occupied by Captain Cookie near Eastern Market announcing the arrival of Van Leeuwen Ice Cream. The space at 660 7th Street, SE, is adjacent to Peregrine Espresso. Not sure when they’ll open. Before Captain Cookie, the space was occupied by Pitango Gelato. Maybe the third time will be a charm. Nearby ice cream shops include Eastern Market Bakery, Moorenko’s Ice Cream at 720 C Street, SE, and Jen’s Splendid Ice Creams at 526 8th Street on Barracks Row.
CAPITOL HILL CORNER 
That’s interesting. The same company has been renovating space at Union Station, on the main floor, across from Warby Parker, promising an opening “soon.” I just checked out their website, and they’ve got scoop shops in nearly a dozen a different states (including DC), with 30 shops open in NYC alone, they’ve already opened 3 stores here in DC, with Union Station and Logan Circle next. They seem to echo the same kind of origin story as the founders of Ben and Jerry’s. It seems like a juggernaut!
Another expensive luxury ice cream shop!
However, I recently discovered that the ice cream at Eastern Market’s bakery is Turkey Hill and outstanding and at half the price of the so called luxury ice creams.
I’d only be interested if van Leeuvan made a banana split in a long glass dish with vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream scoops; with hot fudge, caramel, and marshmallow toppings; and 3 cherries. And sprinkles.
Please add a chocolate malt to the order!
I would appreciate being able to order an ice cream sundae. I miss the Dunkin Donuts old location for that, when the balcony was open.