Crispy Cones is bringing a unique, European-style dessert experience to Utah, captivating the taste buds of locals and visitors alike. This innovative concept, born in a tent in Rexburg, Idaho, has rapidly expanded to over 20 locations across the U.S. in just a few years. The secret lies in their signature pastry cones, crafted from freshly-made dough, grilled rotisserie-style, and then coated in a delightful blend of sugar and cinnamon. These cones are then generously slathered with cookie butter, Nutella, or any spread of your choice, creating a heavenly base for the premium soft-serve ice cream. The dessert is then topped with an array of fresh fruits, chocolate treats, and any other toppings you can dream of, resulting in a truly decadent and unforgettable experience.
The story behind Crispy Cones is one of inspiration and entrepreneurship. Founder Jeremy Carlson's experience serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Czech Republic sparked his fascination with the local pastries vendors made on the side of the road. This led to a dream that became a reality when he returned to the U.S. and began crafting these unique cones. The business gained traction, and Carlson's appearance on Shark Tank further propelled its growth, securing an investment from Barbara Corcoran.
One of the key figures in this success story is Andrei Popa, who owns the Provo and Draper locations and is set to open another in West Valley City in January. Popa, a native of Romania, was inspired by a similar pastry he encountered during the holidays in his home country. He envisioned its potential in America and was introduced to Crispy Cones through an Instagram Reel. By February, he had signed the rights to purchase six stores in Utah, driven by his passion for bringing a taste of Europe to the U.S.
Popa's enthusiasm is infectious, and he aims to provide more than just a pastry shop experience. "We don't want to just be an ice cream store," he says. "The rules we have in the store are to provide a premium experience. We want to give customers an unforgettable experience." This commitment to excellence is evident in the decadent dessert I ordered, the Cookies a la Mode, which featured a perfectly grilled, cinnamon-sugar coated cone, creamy vanilla ice cream, cookie dough bites, and Oreo chunks. The combination of warm, crispy cone, soft dough, and crunchy toppings created a sensory delight that left a lasting impression.
Crispy Cones' unique offering and dedication to quality have made it a popular destination for dessert lovers in Utah. With its European-inspired pastries and premium ice cream, the brand is set to continue its expansion, offering customers an unforgettable culinary journey.
