Kawartha Dairy, a family-owned Canadian company renowned for its premium ice cream, milk, and butter products, is preparing to open a new location in Ottawa at 2200 Carling Ave.
The company’s first Ottawa site will sit near the intersection of Carling and Fairlawn Avenues and across the street from Carlingwood Shopping Centre and Fairlawn Centre, according to the Ottawa Business Journal. The 600-square-foot drive-thru will offer 50 flavours of ice cream, milk, cream, and butter. This is a massive achievement for Kawartha Dairy, which already operates 14 retail stores, with 13 in southern Ontario and one in Britannia Beach, B.C. The new Ottawa location is expected to open in Summer 2025.
“Coming soon to Canada’s capital,” according to an announcement made by the company on social media. “We’re excited to share that Kawartha Dairy is opening a new location in Ottawa this summer. We can’t wait to bring our premium dairy products, made with fresh milk and fresh cream from Canadian farms, to our new Drive-Thru location at 2200 Carling Avenue, Ottawa. Here’s to making great family memories together.”
Kawartha Dairy, a 100% Canadian-owned company, has been family-operated since 1937. Founded by Jack and Ila Crowe in Bobcaygeon, Ontario, the business started with a small dairy using local milk and ice from the lake for refrigeration. Initially delivering milk by horse and boat, it grew steadily, acquiring another dairy in 1942. In the 1950s, Jack learned to make ice cream, which would become the company’s hallmark. By the 1960s, Kawartha expanded to Minden, where its dairy bar became a summer staple. The company prides itself on using fresh, local Ontario milk and thanks its loyal customers and farmers for their support.
At its retail locations, Kawartha Dairy offers a wide range of ice cream flavors, including classic options like Moose Tracks and Tiger Tail. They also provide sorbets, sherbets, and special diet-friendly options such as lactose-free and reduced-sugar ice cream. Additionally, customers can purchase fresh milk, butter, and other dairy products. Some locations feature unique items like edible candy spoons to promote sustainability.
