Cherry Street Pier’s Irv’s Ice Cream Is Opening a New Brick and Mortar Location This Month

If you found your way over at Cherry Street Pier in the past year then you were greeted at the entrance by a charming ice cream stand located in a trolley. Owned and operated by Illissa Shapiro, Irv’s Ice Cream offers guests a wide variety of premium ice cream flavors, perfect for those summer nights.

Now Illissa is poised to expand her ice cream operations by opening Irv’s Ice cream in a brick and mortar location at 932 East Passyunk. Slated to open on Friday, April 18, Irv’s Ice Cream will be open  from 12 PM to 11 PM with a special opening day promotion: $1 off all full scoops, milkshakes, and floats from 12 PM – 4 PM.

Founded on nostalgia, creativity, and community, Irv’s Ice Cream specializes in small-batch, custard-based ice cream, with 95% of inclusions and toppings made from scratch. Guests can expect a rotating selection of seasonal specials. Adding to the excitement, the shop will also feature one of Flakely’s pastry ATMs, offering a unique selection of baked goods.

Ilissa started her journey into the industry over 15 years ago at some of Philadelphia and Santa Fe’s busiest restaurants. Irv’s is named after her grandfather, who had an old-fashioned soda fountain in his basement—a love for ice cream that was passed down through generations. Ilissa’s passion for food and connection continues in every batch of ice cream she creates, a tradition now further enriched by her marriage to a fellow chef.

“We’re beyond excited to bring Irv’s to Bella Vista and share our love for handcrafted ice cream with the community,” said Shapiro. “This space is a reflection of tradition, creativity, and care—values that have shaped my journey in the culinary world.”

Spring Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 3 PM – 10 PM
Friday: 3 PM – 11 PM
Saturday: 12 PM – 11 PM
Sunday: 12 PM – 9 PM
(Hours expected to expand around Father’s Day)