Dutch Dreams operates a family-owned ice cream shop at 36 Vaughan Road in Toronto, specializing in homemade frozen desserts, Dutch pancakes, and waffle cones since the 1980s. Founded by the Aben family, the shop features over 60 handcrafted ice cream flavors, signature Baked Alaska, and cotton candy toppings, all made with premium ingredients and fresh cream. The business serves tourists, families and ice cream enthusiasts seeking authentic Dutch-style treats and multicultural dining experiences.
It didn't take 40 years in the ice cream business to reach perfection: that happened long ago at Dutch Dreams! The dream child of Theo Aben Sr., Dutch Dreams fulfilled a vision that he had had since a harrowing Holocaust childhood in war-torn Amsterdam. Ironically and magically, he had never experienced actually eating ice cream, but he somehow had prescient dreams of it. Once settled in Toronto, in the 1980's, the elder Theo and son, Theo, manifested that fantasy into a thriving business which today proudly offers a plethora of marvelously creative ice cream concoctions.
Now owner, and dominant convivial personality, Theo is there every morning at dawn to process all their confections by hand and only from the freshest ingredients. And recently, to honour his beloved father, the newest ice cream flavour is named lovingly after him. Everything is made in-house! The superb quality pays off: Dutch Dreams at 36 Vaughan Rd. continues to draw eager lineups of patrons who can't wait to savour the almost 60 ice cream flavours, fruit, candy and whipped cream toppings, in-house waffle and specialty cones, Dutch pancakes, and their legendary, celebratory Baked Alaska and signature cotton candy floss super topping.
As Theo says, "Everybody's like family!" - staff and patrons alike. It is a family-loved and worked business. In fact, mother Dina came to apply for a job there decades ago and on first sight Theo Aben knew that she would be his future wife - another dream realized to perfection! It is a most charming venue, full of whimsy, nostalgia, and authentic Dutch decor, paintings, photos, and delightful artifacts, paying homage to their Dutch heritage. Dutch Dreams has become a go-to destination for tourists, celebrities, kids and adults! When asked what are the fan favourites, it's with pleasure that Theo Aben answers, Vanilla and DUTCH Chocolate!
A heavenly delicious, dreamy treat for everyone!!
Dutch Dreams
36 Vaughan Road, Toronto
https://www.dutchdreams.ca/
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