Unique, New Ice Cream Shop Opens in Port Washington

As of last week, Port Washington can officially say it’s lucky enough to have its own ice cream sandwich shop. Smusht offers a unique approach to the traditional ice cream sandwich and serves a variety of delicious treats. A “smusht” refers to their signature item: an ice cream sandwich that customers can build by choosing any of their ice cream flavors, two of their freshly-baked cookies, and a topping. Ice cream can also be purchased in the form of a cup, cone, sundae, shake, or in one of their pre-made sandwiches.

Smusht’s story is an inspiring one. The concept began with its founder Steve and his friends about 15 years ago. The name, he explained, was actually coined about 10 years ago when they were thinking of ideas and he “purchased” it for a quarter. Steve later set up a website under that URL but as life got in the way, it became a topic reserved for dinner parties and hangouts. He eventually stopped paying for smusht.com but flash forward to 2020, everyone was stuck at home and Steve saw an opportunity to pursue his dream. He set the website back up and with the help of his wife Sara, Steve learned how to make ice cream. He set up a stand in his front yard and soon, there were lines going down the block. Now, two and a half years later, Smusht has established itself as a permanent fixture in the Port Washington community. In offering advice to anyone else thinking about starting a small business, Steve said “Focus on the customer, learn what the customer wants, and really go above and beyond to make sure the customer is happy. Learn your trade, put a lot of time into your product and service, and solicit opinions from people who have more experience and expertise than you do.” His passion for what he does is extremely inspiring and it is clear he cares about the people he is serving.

When asked “Why Port Washington?”, Steve explained “I live here. My kids live here. I want to make this part of the fabric of Port Washington. I want to be part of the community. I want to be part of the sports teams, the schools, the churches, and the synagogues.” In just a week of business, he has done just that! It is evident that he values his customers and wants to keep Smusht in touch with its community. To make his thin mint ice cream flavor, for example, he reached out in an Instagram post offering to buy boxes from local girl scouts. Many troops submitted their pitches and were able to sell their cookies. Smusht has also collaborated with local the Puerto Rican pastry shop Abuelitas Desserts in making one of their hit flavors ‒ Abuelita’s Strawberry Flan Cocho.

Everything you’ll find at Smusht is homemade, including its delicious array of ice cream flavors. The store offers customers all the classics like vanilla, chocolate, and cookies and cream, but also an opportunity to try their more unique flavor combinations including Banana Brownie, Creamsicle, Peanut Butter & Jelly Ring, Honey Lavender, and my personal favorite, Cookie Monster! They are also gluten-free and vegan-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy Smusht!
Smusht has already received an outpouring of support in its first few days since it opened and attracted a lot of attention for its delicious treats. Make sure to check it out at 158 Main Street, located right between The Cooking Lab and Globe Realty & Insurance. You won’t be disappointed!