Dulce Vida Ice Cream Factory plans move, expansion in Columbus' Northland

Dulce Vida Ice Cream Factory has found a sweet new spot in Northland.

The Mexican ice cream parlor is expanding into a larger storefront directly to the north, at 6144 Cleveland Ave., and nearly doubling in size.

“We definitely needed more room,” general manager Diana Medina said of the new Columbus spot, which should be open in about a month.

That means inventory also is expanding. Dulce Vida will introduce up to 10 more ice cream flavors, bringing the total to more than 40, plus offering savory Mexican dishes, such as tamales and tortas, as well as burgers, hot dogs and other casual fare, Medina said.

“Comfort foods, I would say,” she said.

Dulce Vida has been open for five years at 2400 Home Acre Drive in the Atrium Center.

Medina said the current location will close down when the new one opens, so no disruptions of service is expected.

In addition to ice cream, it has Mexican-style popsicles, sorbet, flavored beverages, milkshakes and light, savory snacks among its colorful inventory.

It is also home of the mangonada, the house signature dish with layers of fresh chopped mango, mango ice cream, tamarind, spicy chimay sauce and citrusy Tajin seasonings.

“We definitely see an increase in summertime for it, but we have it all year-round, whether it’s raining or snowing,” Medina said.

Ducle Vida has three other locations – 1127 N. High St. in Columbus' Short North, 7370 Sawmill Road in northwest Columbus and 4201 W. Broad St. in west Columbus, where the ice cream is made.

Jenny Leal, cofounder and board member of Elevate Northland, said she’s pleased to hear Dulce Vida is on a successful streak.

“They have a good market here,” Leal said. “That’s great. I’ve been there. I love it. I love the ice cream.”

gseman@thisweeknews.com

@ThisWeekGary

This article originally appeared on ThisWeek: Dulce Vida Ice Cream Factory plans move, expansion in Columbus' Northland