North Portland’s Kate’s Ice Cream crowned title of ‘Best Vegan Ice Cream Spot in America’

Published 10:06 am Friday, February 7, 2025

Though it’s in the name, cream isn’t always needed to make a delicious ice cream.

Kate’s Ice Cream, Portland’s plant-based and gluten-free ice cream shop, proved just that, winning “Best Vegan Ice Cream Spot in America” from VegNews magazine, a leading voice in vegan media worldwide.

“We believe no one should be excluded from joyful food experiences because of differing dietary needs, allergies, or preferences,” Kate Williams, the brand’s founder, said in a statement.

The second annual VegNews Restaurant Awards allowed a panel of readers and judges to choose which eateries would be crowned the best in the country.

A number of Portland restaurants placed in their respective categories, including Boxcar Pizza, The Bye and Bye, Dirty Lettuce, Doe Donuts, Feral, Ice Queen, Jet Black Coffee Co., Mis Tacones, Orange & Blossom Patisserie and Vertical Diner.

Since opening in 2019, Kate’s Ice Cream has been scooping up its plant-based and gluten-free approach to the cold confection. Williams’ sister grew up experiencing dairy intolerance, which inspired her to start the company.

“This award is a testament to our team’s dedication to creating joyful and inclusive sweets experiences for everyone,” Williams said in a release. “We’re honored to be recognized by VegNews and proud to represent Portland’s plant-based community on this national stage.”

This award adds to a list of accolades, including its second place finish in the North American Ice Cream Association’s “Best Non-Dairy Flavor of the Year” competition which honored the Salted Peanut Butter Brittle flavor.

Kate’s Ice Cream has two permanent locations at 3713 N. Mississippi Ave., and 1430 N.W. 23rd Ave., Portland, each featuring a rotating menu of seasonally-inspired flavors crafted with locally-sourced ingredients.

Pro tip: don’t miss out on the iconic Choco Tacos.

For more, visit katesicecream.com.