The Scoop on 5 New Seattle Ice Cream Spots

First, the big news: Seattle Pops is opening its first brick-and-mortar retail store in the heart of Wallingford, scheduled for July 28. (Check its website and Facebook page for updates.)

Now, the backstory: Seattle Pops has been seriously upping the Popsicle game with its gourmet line of nearly 40 fruity and creamy flavors, such as pleasantly tart strawberry Popsicle, made with berries from Puyallup. Or try the chocolate banana, so creamy you feel like you’re eating ice cream on a stick. In the kitchen, Seattle Pops is always experimenting with potential new flavors. How about a chocolate coconut curry Popsicle? Or dog-friendly puppy pops?

Owner Megan Janes came up with the idea for a Popsicle business in Seattle in 2012, and ran it through a group of business students at University of Puget Sound, her alma mater. Seattle Pops now is in its fourth season, and does 13 farmers markets a week.

Its new store will carry flavors you won’t find at farmers markets, such as mango chili, pineapple jalapeño, avocado and cinnamon horchata. The store also offers chocolate dipping, in milk, white or dark chocolate.

Find it: 401 N. 45th St., Seattle, in Wallingford

Nearby: Browse the aisles at Archie McPhee across the street (1300 N. 45th St.) for terrifically juvenile gag gifts. Or head a few blocks over to the Meridian Playground (4649 Sunnyside Ave. N.), which features a playground next to Seattle Tilth's fruit orchard and a P-Patch community garden.