America’s Most Popular Regional Ice Cream Chains [MAP]

As we’ve found with coffee, pizza, and even burritos, different states across the U.S. have vastly different preferences and brand loyalties when it comes to food and beverages. Another example that showcases regional allegiances is America’s favorite sweet summer staple: ice cream.

Though some ice cream chains are nationally adored like Baskin Robbins, Häagen Dazs, or Cold Stone, some of the best spots across the country are more localized. From refreshing Italian ice at Rita’s across the Northeast to the out-of-the-box flavor combinations at West Coast staple Salt & Straw, some of the nation’s most beloved frozen offerings haven’t expanded far beyond their corners of the country.

So, what are the most popular regional ice cream chains across America? Check out the map below to see where your area’s loyalties lie.

Northeast Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

Bruce Reed founded Bruster’s Real Ice Cream in 1989 in Pennsylvania with a focus on homemade ice cream. Now in business for over 30 years with over 200 locations primarily across the Northeast, the chain still stays true to its roots by serving ice cream made in-house daily.

Carvel

For anyone who grew up on the East Coast, characters like Fudgie the Whale and Cookie Puss are household staples. These popular Carvel cakes feature the brand’s signature ice cream, fudge, and yes, the now-iconic chocolate crunchies.

Van Leeuwen

A bit newer on the scene, Van Leeuwen launched out of a yellow truck on the streets of NYC in 2008. The shop, now known