Good morning. Today I want to introduce you to Zesto, a Fort Wayne institution.
Zesto Ice Cream, located at 2225 Broadway (a one-and-a-half mile, five-minute drive from the convention center), has been synonymous with summertime treats and cherished memories in Fort Wayne for generations. Known for its classic soft-serve cones, Razzles (think DQ Blizzard or McDonalds McFlurry), creative sundaes, and friendly service, Zesot is a beloved destination for Nora, our daughter, our grandsons, and me. A visit to Zesto offers not just delicious ice cream, but a taste of local history and community spirit.
Nora and I took my brother and his wife to Zesto while they were visiting us from Virginia. My brother got a chocolate-brownie Razzle and, after the first bite, told me, “That’s just good ice cream!”
Zesto’s story began in the mid-20th Century, when the first store opened its doors in Fort Wayne. The original concept was simple: offer high-quality soft-serve ice cream at affordable prices, served with a smile. Over the decades, Zesto grew its reputation for consistency and nostalgia, maintaining much of its classic charm even as the city around it evolved. Today, the name Zesto is nearly indistinguishable from summer in Fort Wayne, and many families recall childhood visits for cones, shakes, and sundaes as cherished rites of passage.
What sets Zesto apart from other ice cream shops is its commitment to quality and variety. The menu features the classic soft-serve ice cream available in vanilla, chocolate, and twist flavors.
Customers can enjoy their ice cream in cones or cups, or as part of inventive sundaes topped with hot fudge, caramel, fresh fruit, or candies. A standout favorite is the “Zesto Banana Split,” a generous portion of ice cream layered with bananas, syrup, whipped cream, and a cherry on top.
Other popular options include thick malts and shakes, refreshing slushies, and dipped cones coated in chocolate or butterscotch. Our favorite item is their Razzles. Nora’s favorite is black-raspberry and banana, mine are Butterfinger, cookie dough, and Heath Bar.
Zesto is also known for keeping its menu fresh with seasonal offerings. In the spring and summer, you might find special flavors, limited-edition sundaes, or themed desserts that celebrate local holidays or sporting events. These treats not only tantalize taste buds but also keep customers coming back to see what’s new and exciting.
Ask anyone from Fort Wayne about Zesto, and you’ll likely hear stories that go beyond just dessert. For many, Zesto is a place of gathering, a spot where families celebrate birthdays, teams meet after games, and couples enjoy a casual date night. The shop’s welcoming atmosphere, with its retro signage and friendly staff, fosters a sense of nostalgia that appeals to both young and old.
In a world where trends come and go, Zesto Ice Cream remains a constant in our city, a place where tradition meets sweetness. Its classic treats, nostalgic atmosphere, and commitment to community have secured its place in the hearts of many. Whether you’re craving a simple vanilla cone or an elaborate sundae, Zesto offers more than just dessert; it offers a taste of home and a connection to generations of happy memories.
While you are in Fort Wayne, a stop at Zesto is a must. Indulge in the flavors, soak in the ambiance, and become part of a tradition that continues to bring smiles to faces, one Razzle at a time.
Here is a short video on Zesto:
Stay well,
Nora and John