A to Z Creamery Expands with New Soft-Serve Shop in Hopkins

A to Z Creamery, a beloved artisan ice cream brand founded by Zach Vraa, is set to transition from an online-only business to a physical storefront. The new soft-serve ice cream shop will open at 705 Mainstreet in downtown Hopkins, Minnesota, with a target opening date in spring 2026. This marks a significant shift for a company that initially gained popularity through its limited-batch pints, which customers often describe as lottery-like finds.

The establishment of a storefront introduces regular hours and the addition of small-batch baked goods, heralding a new chapter for the brand. Vraa started A to Z Creamery using a second-hand ice cream maker and quickly amassed a following for his creative flavors, ranging from Oreo-studded concoctions to adventurous options like “basically pizza” flavored ice cream. The move to soft serve represents a departure from his traditional hard-pack offerings, which are known for their higher milk fat content.

In discussing the new soft-serve venture, Vraa explained, “Hard-pack ice cream is meant to be served straight out of the freezer. Soft serve has to still have that creamy, soft mouthfeel, but served at a warmer texture that holds its shape.” Achieving this requires a different base, a challenge that Vraa is ready to tackle. “But we have a very good soft serve recipe. I’m pretty confident we can nail it,” he added.

The soft-serve machine will feature two flavors: a classic vanilla and a rotating “wild card” flavor, which will change weekly and often reflect seasonal ingredients. Vraa shared an enticing example: banana bread-flavored soft serve, twirled with vanilla, served alongside housemade banana bread drizzled with hot fudge.

In addition to the new shop, A to Z Creamery plans to broaden its pint distribution. The company is currently testing a delivery service through MN Food Club, an online grocery platform that connects local farmers to consumers. Vraa likened the service to a “farmers market Schwann’s,” reflecting his commitment to supporting local agriculture.

The paperwork for the new storefront is complete, and construction is underway. Vraa expressed confidence in the transition, stating, “The change can happen pretty easily, and we have a really loyal customer base in Hopkins.” Customers can continue to enjoy the limited-edition flavor drops available for pickup in downtown Hopkins while eagerly awaiting the opening of the new shop. For updates on the construction progress, follow A to Z Creamery on Instagram.

New Eateries and Closures in the Region

The culinary scene in Minnesota continues to evolve with several noteworthy openings and closures. The Lake Elmo City Council has approved plans for two new restaurants in the city’s former fire station and parks building. Tap & Ladder will occupy the fire station, offering a casual venue with a self-pour beer wall and a menu focused on bar food. The space will also feature a dedicated children’s play area and outdoor patio, along with displays honoring local fire service and veterans.

In the parks building, a new location for Machete Cocina Mexicana will bring its popular offerings to the area, including the famed 21-inch “Quesadillota.” This joint proposal submitted by Brian Heidt, Amanda Urban, and Julian Ocampo aims to enhance the local dining experience.

Meanwhile, Olive & Lamb has opened a second location near the University of Minnesota, serving a variation of its original menu with items like gyros and build-your-own bowls. The restaurant, located at 1510 Como Ave. SE., is poised to attract both students and locals alike.

For sushi lovers, Sushi Box has opened its doors at Asia Mall in Eden Prairie, becoming the state’s first sushi-by-weight restaurant. Diners can select from various rolls, sashimi, and salads, paying only for what they choose.

In a notable announcement for pizza enthusiasts, Giordano’s, renowned for its Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, is set to open at the Mall of America in spring 2026. This will be the chain’s second Minnesota location, following their establishment in Richfield.

The restaurant Red Cow has recently reopened after a renovation, showcasing a redesigned interior and an expanded menu featuring new dishes from chef Adam Lerner and beverage director Ian Lowther. The North Loop location is now welcoming customers for lunch and dinner.

As some establishments flourish, others are closing their doors. Soberfish, a sushi and Thai restaurant in Seward, announced that its final day of service will be November 14. The restaurant expressed gratitude for the support it has received over the years in a heartfelt Facebook post.

Additionally, the longstanding Gina Maria’s pizza chain has officially closed all four of its locations, a decision that has left many patrons surprised and saddened. The original restaurant opened in Minnetonka in 1975, but no further details were provided regarding the closures.

As Minnesota’s dining landscape continues to shift, food lovers are encouraged to explore the new establishments while cherishing the memories of those that have closed.