On Jan. 9, Crispy Cones’ first California location opened in Carlsbad, drawing large crowds of locals and tourists. The Shark Tank-featured dessert shop specializes in doughy ice cream cones with unique flavor combinations.
Although Carlsbad already has an abundance of ice cream shops, Crispy Cones offers a twist that can’t be found anywhere else. Instead of using a traditional cone, the ice cream is served on a dessert pastry, adding a new twist to sweets.
“They aren’t normal thin, crunchy ice cream cones,” employee Mabel Clay said. “They’re a dessert on their own, doughy and covered in cinnamon sugar.”
Known for its coastal lifestyle, Carlsbad has largely influenced Crispy Cone’s overall vibe. The shop’s easygoing atmosphere draws in customers as they explore the surrounding area.
“Being in a beach town like Carlsbad is very unique,” shift lead Alex Stark said. “It’s super cool to see everyone come in, whether they are tourists or Daygo natives.”
Behind the scenes, staff carefully plan each day to make sure everything runs smoothly. From stocking ingredients to preparing dough and checking machines, preparation is key to satisfying customers.
“We make sure the ice cream machine is good to go, as well as the ice cream, [and] stock up on all the toppings,” Stark said. “We also have to make sure that we have enough dough to make the cones with and that everything is tidy.”
Since there is a wide variety of flavours and combinations for the doughy cone, customers have the option to create their own dessert. The weekly specials also keep customers enticed.
“People really love the chocolate and vanilla swirl [cone],” Clay said. “We also have a bunch of pre-designed cones, such as Brownie Royale, which people seem to like.”
Since the shop opened just last month, the crowds have only gotten larger. Stretching all the way down the street, these growing numbers have brought broader recognition to the shop, along with pressure on the staff.
“I manage the busy crowds by communicating a lot with the rest of the team,” Stark said. “I make sure that each member is at a station that [is] most efficient to keep the orders flowing.”
Beyond its sweet treats, Crispy Cones has become a newfound hub for the community. The shop’s affordability and distinctive menu items continue to entice new patrons, reinforcing its growing local presence.
“I think it’s a great fit [for] Carlsbad because it helps bring the community together,” Clay said. “Since it is really delicious and really worth the price, people keep coming back.”
