Wild Scoops

Wild Scoops: Alaskan artisanal ice cream shop

Wild Scoops is an artisanal microcreamery based in Anchorage, Alaska, that makes small-batch ice cream with local ingredients and a seasonal focus. Founded in 2015, the company is defined by its connection to its surroundings: every batch is prepared and churned in Anchorage, and the flavors aim to reflect the character of Alaska.

History and evolution

Since its launch in 2015, Wild Scoops has created hundreds of unique flavors, many of them inspired by local ingredients and collaborations. In 2017 it opened its first brick-and-mortar scoop shop in downtown Anchorage. In spring 2019 it moved its test kitchen to the Metro Mall in Midtown and opened a second scoop shop right next door. In 2023, it refurbished a shipping container to create "The Cone-tainer" downtown and moved its test kitchen into a larger space.

Ingredients and production philosophy

The company prioritizes the use of Alaskan products and avoids artificial flavors. Its ice creams incorporate ingredients from local producers, gardens and vendors, and the toppings are made in its own kitchen. Among the suppliers mentioned are VanderWeele Farm (beets, pumpkins, carrots), Bridge Creek Birch Syrup, Summit Spice & Tea, Alaska Flour Company, Alaska Pure Sea Salt Co., Anchorage Brewing Company, Barnacle Foods, Chugach Chocolates, Girdwood Brewing Co., La Bodega, Midnight Sun Brewing Co., Port Chilkoot Distillery, South Restaurant, Sweet Caribou, The Kobuk, Zip Kombucha and a long list of local producers of fruit, herbs and other ingredients.

Flavors and offerings

The flavors are inspired by local ingredients, events and Alaskan references, such as the Iditarod, Denali, Fat Bear Week or childhood recipes. The company also collaborates with other businesses and organizations, such as the collaboration with APL (Anchorage Public Library) for the "Scoops & Stories" challenge, which invited the public to create a book-inspired flavor. In addition, they have offered special items such as the Malaysian ice cream bun in collaboration with Sakana and Ixora Foods, and ice cream tacos available by preorder.

Points of sale and distribution

Wild Scoops operates several points of sale in Anchorage, including the Midtown scoop shop, the "The Cone-tainer" container downtown and the downtown scoop shop, as well as an express stand in the test kitchen. The company also sells at farmers markets and pop-up events. The site's listing indicated that some locations closed for the season and that hours varied between summer and winter.

Wholesale and contact

The company handles inquiries about wholesale and special orders through the email wholesale@wildscoops.com. It does not ship frozen products nationwide, but it offers merchandise through its online store.