With dozens of locations open or in the works all over the country, from Florida to California, to New Jersey, to Washington, Vampire Penguin is “Taking Over the World, One Shaved Snow at a Time.”
As the brand builds out its presence on Florida’s west coast, where it already has locations in localities like Brandon, Ellenton, and Bradenton, it’s now preparing to launch its first location in Lakeland.
What Now confirmed the news on Tuesday with local owner Ken Parks. It’s Parks’ first Vampire Penguin location.
What led to your getting involved with Vampire Penguin? What Now asked.
“Well, we had once ended up in a Vampire Penguin in St. Pete, and we loved it,” Parks said. “After that, we kept going back when we got the chance. We talked to the owner, who happens to be the person who handles licensing. And as we got more and more involved, we finally decided we wanted to bring one to Lakeland.”
The brand was born from the work of two brothers, Paolo and Leo San Luis, who had developed a passion for frozen desserts like snow cones, Hawaiian shaved ice, and Taiwanese shaved ice.
“Each had something special, and when we decided to open our own shop in 2013, we set out to combine the best parts of them all — the fine texture of Hawaiian ice, the creaminess of Taiwanese ice, and the nostalgic fun of an American snow cone,” says a word from the founders on the Vampire Penguin website.
Soon, you’ll be able to check out this unique dessert, which comes in a wide variety of flavors and toppings, in Lakeland. (Asked if he had any personal favorites, Parks recommends standouts like Dulce de Leche and Strawberry Cheesecake).
A family venture, the new Vampire Penguin will feature indoor seating in a cozy space characterized by brick walls.
“It’s going to be designed to remind you of an antique bookstore,” Parks said.
You can keep up with all things Vampire Penguin by following @vampirepenguinsnow on Instagram.
