Salt & Straw is not just an ice cream shop; it is an experience. With a unique approach to flavors, this Portland-based brand has captured the hearts of ice cream lovers across the U.S. Unlike traditional ice cream chains, Salt & Straw dares to experiment with ingredients, creating unexpected yet delightful combinations.
Their menu is ever-changing, with seasonal specials, classic flavors, and collaborations that highlight local ingredients. Whether you are a fan of rich chocolates, tangy fruits, or savory surprises, Salt & Straw has something to intrigue your taste buds.
This article explores the Salt & Straw menu in detail, breaking down their signature flavors, rotating selections, and must-try options for first-time visitors.
Classic Flavors: Timeless & Delicious
While Salt & Straw is known for its creative seasonal offerings, its classic menu remains a staple for loyal customers. These flavors are available year-round and provide a solid foundation of what makes the brand so special.
1. Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons
This flavor is one of Salt & Straw’s most beloved options. It features a smooth, creamy vanilla base infused with delicate sea salt and thick ribbons of rich, house-made caramel. The contrast of salty and sweet makes this an unforgettable choice.
2. Double Fold Vanilla
For vanilla lovers, this is an elevated version of the traditional favorite. Salt & Straw uses twice the normal amount of vanilla extract, creating a deep, warm, and aromatic profile. The Madagascar vanilla beans used in this recipe bring a richness that sets it apart from ordinary vanilla ice creams.
3. Chocolate Gooey Brownie
Chocolate lovers will find pure bliss in this decadent flavor. Made with dark chocolate ice cream, this creation is filled with chunks of house-made brownies that are chewy, fudgy, and rich. Every spoonful is packed with texture and deep chocolate flavor.
4. Honey Lavender
Floral and sweet, this unique ice cream is made with Oregon-grown lavender and pure honey. It has a calming, aromatic quality that makes it stand out from traditional flavors. The balance between sweet honey and fragrant lavender makes it a sophisticated and soothing treat.
5. Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper
A flavor that captures the essence of summer, this creation blends ripe strawberries with tangy balsamic vinegar and a hint of black pepper. The result is a perfect mix of sweet, tart, and spicy notes. It’s a refreshing choice for those who love fruit-based ice creams with a twist.
Seasonal and Limited-Edition Flavors
One of Salt & Straw’s most exciting features is its rotating seasonal menu. These flavors change every few months and highlight seasonal ingredients, cultural inspirations, and holiday celebrations.
Spring Collection
Spring brings flavors inspired by fresh herbs, flowers, and lighter, fruity profiles. Some past seasonal spring flavors include:
- Wildflower Honey with Ricotta Walnut Lace Cookies – A creamy honey base with ricotta cheese and crunchy walnut lace cookies.
- Rhubarb Crumble with Toasted Anise – A tart and tangy rhubarb base with a spiced crumble topping.
Summer Collection
Summer is all about fresh fruits, bright flavors, and refreshing combinations. Some notable summer flavors have included:
- Birthday Cakes & Blackberries – A sweet and tangy mix of vanilla cake chunks and juicy blackberries.
- Meyer Lemon Meringue Pie – A citrusy delight with lemon curd, flaky pie crust, and toasted meringue.
Fall Collection
As the weather cools, Salt & Straw embraces warm, comforting flavors featuring spices, pumpkins, and nuts. Some popular fall offerings have been:
- Pumpkin & Gingersnap Pie – A fall classic with pumpkin spice, crunchy gingersnap cookies, and swirls of caramel.
- Beecher’s Flagship Cheese with Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls – A savory-sweet masterpiece combining creamy cheese, cinnamon rolls, and apple pie.
Winter Collection
Winter flavors at Salt & Straw are rich, cozy, and often holiday-themed. Some past favorites include:
- Peppermint Cocoa – A mix of rich chocolate ice cream with peppermint bark pieces.
- Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache – A crunchy and creamy delight featuring almond brittle and smooth chocolate ganache.
Dairy-Free and Vegan Options
Salt & Straw is committed to offering ice cream for everyone, including those who prefer dairy-free or vegan options. Their plant-based flavors are just as indulgent as their dairy-based counterparts.
1. Freckled Mint TCHO-colate Chip
This vegan take on mint chocolate chip ice cream uses coconut cream for a creamy texture. The TCHO dark chocolate freckles add a rich and crunchy contrast.
2. Roasted Pineapple Coconut Sherbet
A tropical and refreshing option, this dairy-free sherbet features caramelized pineapple mixed with creamy coconut milk. It’s a perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
3. Chocolate Sorbet
For chocolate lovers who avoid dairy, this sorbet delivers deep cocoa flavor with a smooth and rich texture. Made with high-quality dark chocolate, it’s both refreshing and indulgent.
Experimental & Unexpected Flavors
One of the most exciting things about Salt & Straw is their willingness to push the boundaries of ice cream flavors. Over the years, they have introduced wild and unusual creations that surprise and delight customers.
1. Bone Marrow & Smoked Cherries
This unexpected flavor uses roasted bone marrow for a creamy texture and deep umami flavor, paired with sweet and smoky cherries for balance.
2. Black Olive Brittle & Goat Cheese
Salty and savory meet sweet and creamy in this daring combination. The black olive brittle provides crunch, while the goat cheese base adds tangy richness.
3. Thanksgiving Turkey Ice Cream
As part of their Thanksgiving lineup, this flavor combines roasted turkey and cranberry sauce into an ice cream experience unlike any other.
Conclusion
Salt & Straw is more than just an ice cream brand; it’s a culinary journey. From their signature classics to their wild experimental flavors, every scoop tells a story. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a dedicated fan, there is always something new and exciting to try.
If you love ice cream and enjoy exploring bold, innovative flavors, Salt & Straw is a must-visit destination. Their menu is ever-changing, so each visit brings a new adventure. Next time you step into one of their locations, take your time, sample a few flavors, and let your taste buds embark on an unforgettable journey.
You Might Be Interested In:
