Scoops by Beth marks Highland Park's sweet comeback
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Beth Mensing began making homemade ice cream with a stand mixer attachment in 2014. Photo: Jason Clayworth/Axios
Scoops by Beth opens in Des Moines' Highland Park Business District on Saturday.
Why it matters: The ice cream shop is another sign of the district's comeback, powered by small, locally owned businesses and eateries.
- It highlights how community support can turn a longtime concept into reality, owner Beth Mensing tells Axios.
Catch up quick: Her ice cream journey began more than a decade ago, inspired by her grandmother's homemade concoctions. Mensing would make those for her grandfather after her grandmother passed.
- That evolved over the last five years into collaborations with local businesses and taking preorders online.
Zoom in: Mensing noticed the shop was for lease when she stopped at a traffic light at the intersection of Sixth and Euclid avenues in 2022.
- She worked with property owner and neighborhood advocate Bill Wheeler to retain it while she applied for a local grant and used Kickstarter to fund the startup.
Flashback: The area was considered a city suburb in the early 1900s, located on a busy streetcar line, with banks and department stores and retail stores.
- The district later faced challenges as buildings aged and businesses closed.
- Supporters launched efforts to save it decades ago, including getting it listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Behind the scenes: A string of redevelopments and new businesses in recent years has contributed to the area's rejuvenation, including a $1.4 million renovation of Chuck's Restaurant and the openings of Highland Underground cocktail lounge and Lachele's Fine Foods.
- Affordable housing and apartment projects have also taken hold.
The intrigue: The shop opened for a few hours on Feb. 7 to celebrate Ice Cream for Breakfast Day and sold 120 pints, Mensing said.
Dig in: For Saturday's opening, expect classic flavors plus some of Mensing's specialties, like Thai basil mint and blueberry cheesecake.
- Noon to 9pm.
- 523 Euclid Ave.
What's next: Scoops' full hours begin Thursday.
- Thursdays, 2-8pm; Fridays through Sundays, noon-9pm.