Peterson's Enjoys the Sweet Taste of Success

Fresh off a win for the “Best Frozen Treats” in Northern Virginia, co-owners of Peterson’s Ice Cream Depot in Clifton Tom and Jean Peterson appreciate the sweet taste of success.  Especially since this contest wasn’t just editor’s choice.

“This was a huge win for us, the format that they did it, basketball style format, you actually had to go up against another shop for a day of voting,” said Tom Peterson.

This contest featured 32 ice cream shops that faced off head to head, tournament style.  Winners, who got the most votes for the day, moved on while their opponents dropped out.

Peterson said this win was a special honor because Peterson’s beat some popular and famous shops from around the state, like Moo Thru in Remington.  But no matter how beloved the sweet treats are at Peterson’s, they needed the votes to pull off the big win.

“We couldn’t have won this competition without our loyal friends and customers,” Peterson said.  “They really supported us.  To ask people to vote six different days over a month and a half tournament is asking a lot.”

 But vote they did.  The tournament ran from June first through July 20^th and now Peterson’s can claim bragging rights for the rest of the year.

Peterson said he thinks it’s the ambience of the ice cream shop that really makes it a Clifton staple.

“It’s a family friendly place, it has a great atmosphere,” Peterson said.  “We have games for the kids, an outdoor TV.  We have regulars that come here a couple times a week.”

Another concept that Peterson’s takes very seriously is customer input.  For example, a little girl suggested owners add Christmas icicle lights to the outdoor walkway and they did.

Peterson’s is known for a lot of sweet indulgences, but one delicious option is a clear customer favorite.

“Our top sellers are the milkshakes because we have 32 different flavors,” Peterson said.

Another popular item are the “squish” sandwiches; ice cream between two, gourmet chocolate chip cookies.

Out of all the flavors, Peterson himself prefers Cake Batter.  For a look at the shop’s menu and hours, click here.