Photo: Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream
Great news heading into summer – the popular ice cream chain has officially opened their second location in Pittsburgh. The shop is located on South Highland Avenue between The Urban Tap and Adda Coffee & Tea.
The first Pittsburgh Sub Zero opened in June of 2018 in Upper St. Clair. This new Shadyside location is owned by sisters and Pittsburgh natives Donna Puglin and Lisa Varon. Prior to the opening, the sisters had been looking to open a business together for years when they discovered Sub Zero.
“We saw the closest one was in Altoona and we drove out there,” says Varon. “We just loved the whole concept and the ice cream.”
The Sub Zero Ice Cream franchise began in 2004 in Utah. Owner Jerry Hancock used his background in chemistry to develop (and patent) a way to freeze ice cream using nothing but liquid nitrogen. The shop became a quick success, and Sub Zero Ice Cream now has dozens of locations across the country.
Unlike traditional scoop shops, at Sub Zero, guests watch as their ice cream transforms from liquid to solid in just 15 seconds. Sub Zero uses their liquid nitrogen technology to freeze and combine the ice cream, flavors, and toppings at -321° F.
“We are excited for everyone to come try the ice cream, and see what’s different,” says Puglin. “It’s a whole experience to choose whatever you want and see it be made. It’s also very good and high quality.”
Guests can select their own combination of dozens of ice cream batters and toppings, or order a suggested combination, called “Sensations,” such as the Magnetic Mint, with Mint and Fudge Ice Cream, Oreo, and Andes Mints, the Tropical Turbine, with Coconut, Black Raspberry Ice Cream, Mixed Berries, and Coconut Flakes, or the Key Lime Voltage, with Lime and Cheesecake Ice Cream, Graham Cracker, and Cheesecake Bites.
And, a tip from the inside – Puglin and Varon personally love the Banana Cream and Peanut Butter Bonds sensations.
“People say, ‘It tastes like fresh ice cream,’ and I say, ‘That’s exactly what it is!’” laughs Puglin. “We’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback.”
The Sub Zero menu can accommodate gluten-free, vegan, sugar-free, and lactose-free customers… and dogs!
The current hours for the Shadyside Shop are:
Sunday – Thursday, Noon – 10:00 P.M.
Friday – Saturday, Noon – 11:00 P.M.
More information can be found online.
Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream Shop (206 S. Highland Ave)