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From Guava Cream Cheese To Brigadeiro Chocolate, Bebe Zito Isn’t Your Average Ice Cream Shop

Published: July 19, 2025

  • Attraction: Bebe Zito Ice Cream & Burgers
  • Location: 704 W 22nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55405
  • Industry: Ice Cream Shop
  • Website: https://www.bebezitomn.com

What happens when a former Milkjam Creamery flavor developer teams up with a Brazilian-American interior designer to create the most imaginative ice cream shop in Minneapolis?

You get Bebe Zito, a place where global flavors meet childhood nostalgia in the most delicious way possible.

Since opening in 2020, this Uptown gem has been serving up handcrafted ice cream flavors that tell stories, alongside perfectly executed smash burgers that complement their frozen creations.

Founded by Ben Spangler and Gabriella Grant-Spangler, Bebe Zito represents a fearless approach to ice cream making. The shop’s Kewpie-inspired tattooed mascot hints at what’s inside – a playground of flavors that celebrates creativity, authenticity, and the joy of being wonderfully different.

The duo’s mission isn’t just to serve ice cream; it’s to create moments of magic and wonder that transport you back to the excitement of childhood birthday parties.

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Flavor Adventures That Tell Stories

Romeu e Julieta: This Brazilian-inspired masterpiece has quickly become a shop favorite, featuring guava and cream cheese that captures the essence of a classic Brazilian dessert.

You’ll experience layers of tropical sweetness balanced with rich, tangy cream cheese that creates an unforgettable flavor profile rarely found in Minnesota.

Dat Malt Dough: Don’t let the familiar name fool you – this isn’t your typical cookie dough ice cream.

The recipe required over 20 attempts to perfect, resulting in salty-sweet cookie dough with chocolate chips swapped for rich dark chocolate ganache. You’ll discover a complex, cloying texture that pays incredible attention to every detail.

Brazilian Brigadeiro Chocolate: Drawing from Gabriella’s family recipes, this flavor transforms her mother’s traditional Brazilian confection into creamy frozen form.

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The result delivers intense chocolate richness with a uniquely Brazilian twist that has brought Brazilian families to tears of joy and homesickness.

Manda Chuva: This indulgent creation combines gooey brownies with salted caramel and dark chocolate-enrobed Dot’s Pretzels. You’ll experience the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and crunchy textures that dance across your palate.

Lemon Party: Featuring lemon buttermilk poppy seed base with wild blueberries and toasted cinnamon, this flavor delivers bright citrus notes with warming spices. The buttermilk adds a subtle tang that elevates the entire experience.

Strawberry Fields 4 Ever: This nostalgic flavor combines strawberry rhubarb raspberry jam with cream cheese, creating a dessert that tastes like summer in a scoop. The tartness of rhubarb balances beautifully with sweet strawberries and rich cream cheese.

Havana Heat: For adventurous palates, this flavor brings unexpected warmth and complexity that showcases the shop’s willingness to push boundaries.

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Beijinho: Another Brazilian-inspired creation that celebrates coconut in ways you’ve never experienced before.

Smash Burgers That Complement The Magic

The Bebe Burger: Their signature smash burger features a perfectly cooked patty with special sauce that creates crispy edges and juicy centers. You’ll find these burgers smaller than typical restaurant offerings but perfectly portioned and priced accordingly.

Weekend Specials: Saturday brings special burger offerings that rotate seasonally, giving you reason to return regularly for new experiences.

Simple Perfection: The burger approach mirrors their ice cream philosophy – taking familiar concepts and elevating them through attention to detail and quality ingredients.

Chicken Options: Beyond burgers, you’ll find chicken sandwiches that maintain the same commitment to flavor and execution.

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Atmosphere & Design Magic

Groovy Interior: The shop features illustrated wallpaper and an ‘Ice Ice Bebe’ neon sign that immediately sets a playful tone. You’ll notice pendant lights designed to look like upside-down waffle cones, creating whimsical touches throughout the space.

Heat-Sensitive Spoons: Even their utensils add to the experience – the spoons change color as you eat, turning every visit into a small interactive experience.

Outdoor Seating: The patio provides perfect spots for enjoying both ice cream and burgers during beautiful Minneapolis weather. You’ll find comfortable seating that encourages lingering over your treats.

Moderate Noise Level: The atmosphere maintains energy without becoming overwhelming, making it suitable for conversations while still feeling lively and engaging.

Compact But Cozy: The original location feels intimate without being cramped, though you should expect busy periods that create a vibrant buzz.

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Practical Considerations

Pricing Value: Single scoops cost around $4.75, with two flavors available for $9, representing solid value for the quality and creativity involved. You’ll find prices reasonable compared to similar artisanal ice cream shops, especially considering the unique flavor profiles and quality ingredients.

No Sampling Policy: Due to health considerations, samples aren’t available, but you can request split scoops to try multiple flavors. This system actually moves lines faster while still allowing flavor exploration.

Parking Convenience: Free parking is available behind the building, making visits much easier than many Uptown locations. You won’t need to worry about finding street parking or feeding meters.

Family-Friendly Appeal: The shop successfully appeals to multiple generations, from kids enchanted by the colorful atmosphere to adults appreciating the sophisticated flavor combinations.

Line Expectations: Popular times often mean lines extending outside, but the efficient service and excitement of choosing flavors makes waiting part of the experience.

Gluten-Free Options: Multiple flavors accommodate dietary restrictions, with clearly marked allergen information and knowledgeable staff who take precautions seriously.

Operating Hours: Daily service from 11am-10pm ensures you can satisfy ice cream cravings throughout the day, with hot food service ending at 8pm.


Bebe Zito Ice Cream & Burgers
📍 704 W 22nd St, Minneapolis, MN 55405

Writer: Alicia Verville
Contributor

I love writing and I love Minneapolis! My favorite places to explore are charming small towns, vibrant arts scene, and hidden gems anywhere outdoors. Fall foliage with a good documentary is my version of heaven.