The RDU Buzz

By Maddy Cook

Two Roosters Ice Cream

There are few things better than a scoop (or two!) or fresh-made ice cream on a muggy summer afternoon. But we’re not talking any ol’ ice cream. If you want extraordinary flavor concoctions, with a history rooted in authenticity and community, look no further than Two Roosters Ice Cream.

If you haven’t yet partaken in the goodness produced by this local creamery, you may have heard or seen evidence of it around the Triangle. In fact, this spot came recommended from friends who live in Wilmington and seek out one of its five locations anytime they make it back to the Raleigh area. With a dairy allergy in our family, they gave high praise to the dairy-free cookies and cream ice cream in particular. We knew we had to try it.

We parked our car and trailed a happy golden retriever and her owner who were on quite the mission. To where we weren’t sure, until we saw that fluffy yellow tail sit down right outside the parlor as she waited for the ice scream scooper extraordinaire to approach the door with a pup cup full of whipped cream, right on schedule! “She’s a local,” the pup’s owner gleamed. Outside, twinkle lights shone overhead plenty of picnic tables where friends and other spoiled pooches had gathered. Even before we’d tasted the ice cream, the mood alone had us pretty well convinced that we’d be back! 

Inside the parlor a simple black and white menu reads “Regulars” and “Guests”, which describe the flavors you can expect that day. “Regulars” being consistent selections whose availability you can count on each time.  And “Guests” with seasonal and passing flavors, incorporating special ingredients like Earl Grey Lemon cookie dough, peach and blue corn, and even non dairy Christmas cookie. The holidays have come early at Two Roosters, and no one’s upset about it! 

Two Roosters sources their ingredients from scattered local vendors, including those producing tea and coffee, or donuts as is the case for the Sola Cinnamon donut flavor.  On any given visit, be on the lookout for the culinary contributions of local merchants, growers and food artisans! A small business who shops small… what’s not to love! 

Take your scoops to the patio or park bench to enjoy the sights and sounds of other ice cream-goers (and if you’re lucky, their furry friends) as they envy each others frozen treats and plan their next visit. Hours of business are consistent across each of the five locations and are listed on the website here. Let us know if you’ve tried Two Roosters, and which flavors have won you over!