Malai is opening its Manhattan location next month, bringing its unique flavors to the neighborhood. The opening marks a return to Manhattan, where the brand first built a following at street fairs like Hester Street Market and the Seaport.
The opening will be marked by limited-time promotions and discounted scoops.
Malai’s First Manhattan Store Next Month
An artisanal ice cream brand known for its South Asian-inspired flavors is set to debut in Manhattan. Malai is opening in the West Village on Saturday, May 9, 2026. The location will feature the brand’s fan-favorite scoops and soft serves.
The opening follows the brand’s early beginnings at Manhattan street fairs more than a decade ago. The brand also had a successful pop-up last summer, which solidified the decision to open in the neighborhood.
Opening Day Treats
On opening day, Malai is offering single scoops at $3 each. The first 50 customers will receive a free insulated bag with purchase. The brand will also offer popular flavors like Mango & Cream, Masala Chai, Rose with Cinnamon, Roasted Almonds, and Red Chili Chocolate.
The store will also feature soft serve with rotating flavors, starting with Saffron and Pistachio. Customers can also shop for pints, ice cream cakes, kulfi pops, and ice cream sandwiches. The store hours will be 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday, and 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
About the Brand
Malai is an artisanal ice cream brand founded by Pooja Bavishi. It stands out for its use of South Asian flavors, spices, and ingredients rather than mainstream ones. The brand blends traditional Indian taste profiles with a modern, small-batch ice cream approach, resulting in both nostalgic and new flavors.
Originally based in Brooklyn, Malai has a flagship store in Carroll Gardens. It has locations in Washington, DC, and Philadelphia.
The opening brings Malai’s signature South Asian-inspired flavors back to the city where it first began. The new shop in the West Village expands the brand’s footprint and offers locals a fresh ice cream destination.
