Leopold’s Ice Cream: A Sweet Savannah Tradition

By Dirk Ebener

I still remember my first visit to Leopold’s Ice Cream on a warm Savannah afternoon. The line stretched out the door, but no one seemed impatient. Everyone anticipated something special inside. Stories about this legendary shop and its century-long history had set my expectations high. Entering, the air conditioning greeted me, and the sweet scent of waffle cones filled the air. The vintage interior, marble countertops, and children eagerly choosing between Tutti Frutti, Chocolate Chewies & Cream, or Butter Pecan set the scene. I ordered a double scoop of Lemon Custard on a waffle cone, and with the first bite, I understood why Leopold’s is a Savannah institution.

Leopold’s Ice Cream is more than just dessert—it’s part of Savannah’s living history. Founded in 1919 by Greek immigrant brothers George, Peter, and Basil Leopold, it quickly became a local favorite. At a time when ice cream parlors were rare, the Leopolds perfected rich, velvety flavors from scratch. Their iconic Tutti Frutti inspired Savannah’s own Johnny Mercer, and even after the shop closed in 1969, its legacy remained deeply ingrained in local culture.

In 2004, Stratton Leopold, the son of a founder and a Hollywood producer, reopened the family business and restored the shop’s 1930s charm with meticulous attention to detail. Today, stepping into Leopold’s feels like time travel for locals and visitors alike. Original recipes remain unchanged, crafted with the same care and quality as they were a century ago.

Leopold’s crowds come for the flavors. Alongside classics like Vanilla, Chocolate, and Strawberry, unique offerings keep people coming back. Lemon Custard, an original 1919 recipe, and Chocolate Chewies & Cream, packed with house-made cookies, are standouts.

The famous Tutti Frutti honors Savannah roots, and seasonal flavors like Pumpkin Spice or Peppermint Stick keep things fresh.

Leopold’s charm extends beyond its ice cream. The warm, inviting atmosphere features old movie posters from films Stratton Leopold has produced, and staff members offer samples to guests. Despite the ever-present line, the experience never feels rushed as locals and tourists share the delight of a timeless treat.

Leopold’s plays a special role in Savannah community life, hosting an annual birthday block party on Broughton Street with music, games, and plenty of ice cream—perfectly capturing the city’s festive, welcoming spirit.

Why do locals and visitors flock to Leopold’s? For Savannahians, it’s tied to cherished childhood memories. For visitors, it’s a taste of living history. Tradition, quality, and hospitality combine to make Leopold’s resonate with all who visit.

The line outside may seem long, especially on hot afternoons, but it’s part of Leopold’s magical appeal. Waiting brings together strangers who soon share flavor recommendations, Savannah travel tips, and stories about the city. By the time you reach the counter, you feel part of a community drawn together by the anticipation of something sweet.

Leopold’s has charmed celebrities, film crews, and even U.S. presidents. Photo walls show its reach, but the shop remains humble, focused on quality and tradition with the same small-batch methods as always.

A visit to Savannah isn’t complete without a stop at Leopold’s. After exploring the city’s historic squares, Forsyth Park, or the riverfront, nothing caps a day better than a homemade scoop. Grab a cone and stroll Broughton Street, savoring each bite along the way.

Leopold’s Ice Cream is Savannah in a cone—a taste of history, tradition, and joyful indulgence that brings people together.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, once you’ve tasted Leopold’s, it becomes part of your Savannah story.

Dirk Ebener is the founder and creator behind the Food Blogger Journey website, drawing on over 40 years of international travel across more than 60 countries. His global adventures have deepened his understanding of regional cuisines, local customs, and the powerful connection between food and culture. From bustling street markets in Asia to quiet vineyard dinners in Europe, Dirk captures authentic culinary experiences through immersive storytelling. Through Food Blogger Journey, he invites readers to explore the world one dish at a time.

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