Realfruity Ice Cream turns a sweet dream into a Hamilton reality

What started as a tradition in New Zealand is now in Hamilton – real fruit ice cream made to order. It was a dream come true for one small business owner to finally have a stationary, inclusive space.

There was a parade, rose petals and a dance party for free ice cream.

Why would all these people show up this close to December for a frozen treat? It’s all for Jacob Koenig.

“He spent the last two summers touring around and building relationships in the community and getting to know people. And he decided to do this and hasn’t stopped,” said Allison Punnett, Koenig’s cousin.

Through a crowd funding campaign and his savings, Koenig started Realfruity Ice Cream on King Street in Westdale.

It’s been a mobile business for the past year — inspired by a trip to New Zealand where he first had real fruit ice cream made to order on the spot. So he brought the idea here.

“I’m a gay man myself. And when I started Realfruity, it was a silly idea. It’s in the name. We’re a real fruity operation, we’re about embracing yourself and authenticity,” said Koenig.

Today was about the grand opening for ice cream and frozen yogurt – testing out warm treats like hot chocolate and mini Dutch delights.

Koenig’s team not only believes ice cream can be enjoyed year ’round, but they trust his vision for an inclusive space.

“First, I believe in Jacob. But I also believe in the Realfruity vision to be an inclusive, positive environment — and just somewhere people can escape, have fun and enjoy ice cream,” said Punnett.

Realfruity will be open seven days a week, opening at 11 a.m. And through trial and error, they will have set hours and a set menu. For now, they are just enjoying all the support.

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