Expansion of Bebe Zito: A Sweet Journey Beyond Minnesota

Jun 10, 2025 at 11:30 AM
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The renowned ice cream shop, Bebe Zito, is venturing beyond its Minnesota roots to establish a presence in Milwaukee. Set to open later this year within the vibrant 3rd Street Market Hall, this new location will not only serve the innovative ice cream flavors that have captivated Minneapolis but will also introduce bakery and coffee offerings for the first time. Co-founder and chef Ben Spangler, with his extensive background in pastry arts, is eager to expand the menu to include indulgent baked goods alongside their signature frozen treats.

Bebe Zito's journey began as a popular pop-up event before evolving into a beloved fixture in Minneapolis' Wedge neighborhood. With three existing locations, including a full-service shop in Woodbury and another inside the Market at Malcolm Yards food hall, this expansion marks an exciting chapter for the business. Meanwhile, Spice Village is set to launch in Apple Valley this summer, offering a fusion of Indian and Asian cuisine with options catering to vegan, vegetarian, and omnivore diners alike.

Milwaukee Welcomes Bebe Zito's Sweet Innovations

In Milwaukee, Bebe Zito promises to bring more than just its famous ice cream flavors. This new branch will mark the brand’s debut in bakery and coffee offerings, enriching its product line. Chef Ben Spangler, who has dedicated over half his life to pastry creation, aims to enhance the customer experience by incorporating luxurious baked goods into the mix.

Co-founder Gabriella Grant-Spangler expressed her excitement about expanding to Milwaukee, where she once studied at the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design. This connection adds a personal touch to the venture. The choice of 3rd Street Market Hall as the location reflects Bebe Zito's commitment to integrating with lively community spaces. Since its inception as a pop-up, Bebe Zito has grown significantly, establishing itself firmly in Minnesota's culinary landscape. Now, with this new outpost, they aim to replicate their success while introducing fresh elements like pastries and coffee, ensuring a richer dining experience for their patrons.

Spice Village: Bringing Flavorful Fusion to Apple Valley

Beyond Bebe Zito's expansion, another culinary gem, Spice Village, is preparing to grace Apple Valley with its presence. Scheduled to open this summer, it will offer a unique dining experience featuring a blend of Indian and Asian cuisines. Located in Apple Valley Town Square, Spice Village aims to cater to diverse dietary preferences, providing delicious options for vegans, vegetarians, and omnivores alike.

This venture represents a significant contribution to the local food scene, promising an array of delectable dishes such as freshly made chapatis, flavorful biryanis, traditional tandoori items, and uniquely spiced wings. By combining elements from both Indian and Asian culinary traditions, Spice Village seeks to create a distinctive menu that appeals to a wide audience. The establishment of a full-service restaurant alongside a grocery store underscores their dedication to offering convenience and quality. As customers explore these offerings, they will find a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, making each visit an adventure in taste. This initiative not only enhances the dining options in Apple Valley but also sets a benchmark for future culinary enterprises in the area.