California is a hotbed for food innovation, where cultures blend to create unique culinary experiences. One establishment that has made a name for itself in the ice cream industry, particularly for its Filipino-inspired flavors, is Wanderlust Creamery. This Filipino-owned ice cream shop has not only won the hearts of Californians but has also become a must-visit for anyone with a taste for adventure.
What Makes Wanderlust Creamery Unique?
Wanderlust Creamery isn’t your typical ice cream shop. Founded by Filipino-American couple Adrienne Borlongan and JP Lopez, the shop embodies the spirit of “wanderlust” by crafting flavors inspired by international travel and cultural experiences. From Japanese matcha to Filipino ube, each flavor tells a story, bringing a taste of global exploration to a single scoop.
Key Points:
- Diverse, Global Flavors: Flavors inspired by countries around the world, often made with authentic ingredients.
- Filipino Pride: A strong dedication to highlighting Filipino ingredients and flavors in their menu.
- Artisan Quality: Every batch is handcrafted with a commitment to quality and creativity.
The Founders’ Journey: Adrienne Borlongan and JP Lopez
The husband-and-wife duo Adrienne Borlongan and JP Lopez started Wanderlust Creamery with a mission to celebrate cultural flavors in ice cream form. Adrienne, a Filipina who studied perfumery and flavor science, creates unique recipes that bring familiar and exotic flavors to life. Their passion for travel and diverse cuisines heavily influences the shop’s menu, combining their love for their Filipino heritage with global flavor inspiration.
Core Influences:
- Filipino Heritage: Celebrating traditional Filipino flavors like ube and pandan.
- Flavor Science: Adrienne’s background in flavor chemistry allows her to craft uniquely balanced, memorable ice cream.
- Love for Travel: Inspiration for new flavors often comes from the couple’s own adventures around the world.
A Taste of the Philippines: Signature Flavors at Wanderlust Creamery
Wanderlust Creamery has a special place for Filipino flavors, which are often hard to find in mainstream dessert shops. Here’s a look at some of the Filipino-inspired ice cream flavors that have put them on the map:
- Ube Malted Crunch: A unique twist on the iconic ube flavor, this ice cream combines the purple yam with malted milk crunch, creating a deeply flavorful experience.
- Pandan Tres Leches: Inspired by Southeast Asian flavors, pandan is a fragrant leaf that imparts a nutty, floral flavor. This blend of pandan with tres leches is both nostalgic and innovative.
- Buko Pandan: A tribute to a classic Filipino dessert, Buko Pandan combines coconut with pandan jelly for a creamy, refreshing experience.
- Champorado: Based on the beloved Filipino chocolate rice porridge, this ice cream blends the taste of chocolate and rice for a surprising, comforting flavor.
Why Wanderlust Creamery Stands Out in California’s Ice Cream Scene
As one of the most recognized Filipino-owned ice cream shops in California, Wanderlust Creamery has earned accolades and a devoted following for its inventive approach. Here are a few reasons why this shop stands out:
- Cultural Representation: Wanderlust introduces Filipino flavors to a broader audience, helping to increase appreciation for Filipino cuisine.
- Innovative Creations: Adrienne and JP don’t just create ice cream; they craft an experience. Their menu rotates frequently, with flavors changing to reflect seasonal ingredients or new inspirations.
- Community Connection: Wanderlust has a dedicated community of fans who eagerly await new flavors. By hosting events and flavor launches, the shop maintains a strong bond with its customers.
A Welcoming Space for All
Wanderlust Creamery’s vibrant aesthetic and warm, welcoming atmosphere make it more than just an ice cream shop. Each location, from Los Angeles to Pasadena, offers a cozy space where people from all backgrounds can explore flavors they may have never encountered before. The inviting interiors and the friendly staff add to the overall experience, making every visit memorable.
Where to Find Wanderlust Creamery
Wanderlust Creamery has several locations across Southern California, with each one offering a slightly different array of flavors. With multiple spots in Los Angeles and surrounding areas, Wanderlust Creamery is accessible for anyone craving an adventurous dessert.
Why Wanderlust Creamery Is a Must-Visit
If you’re an ice cream lover or a traveler at heart, Wanderlust Creamery should be on your list. This Filipino-owned ice cream shop not only stands as a champion for Filipino flavors but also as a testament to what happens when passion, heritage, and creativity blend together. Through each scoop, Wanderlust Creamery takes you on a journey around the world—one delicious, innovative flavor at a time.
Final Thoughts
Wanderlust Creamery has truly earned its reputation as one of the best Filipino-owned ice cream shops in California. By offering an array of unique flavors that celebrate Filipino culture and world travel, this shop is redefining what it means to eat ice cream. For those in search of a culinary adventure or just a sweet escape, Wanderlust Creamery is the perfect destination.
