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New Van Leeuwen ice cream shop coming to Ballston

Arlington’s third Van Leeuwen ice cream location is preparing to open in Ballston.

Signage for the national ice cream chain has appeared within the last few days on the ground floor of 4075 Wilson Blvd, in part of the former Rustico Restaurant space. The business has eyed the location since last May, according to permit records.

Since then, a permit filed last August on behalf of the chain calls for interior renovations including new light fixtures, finishes and kitchen equipment.

The Ballston location would be Van Leeuwen’s third shop in the county, after replacing Nice Cream at 2831 Clarendon Blvd in Clarendon last spring and opening at 269 19th Court S. in Crystal City two years ago.

The shop offers more than two dozen ice cream flavors, including vegan-friendly varieties and rotating specials. These currently include hojicha, dulce hazelnut cookies and cream and a vegan “planet earth” made with spirulina and matcha cake.

It’s unclear when the shop plans to open. Van Leeuwen was not immediately available for comment.

About the Author

  • Katie Taranto is a reporter at Local News Now, primarily covering business, public safety and the city of Falls Church. She graduated from the University of Missouri in 2024, where she previously covered K-12 education at The Columbia Missourian. She is originally from Macungie, Pennsylvania.