Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, the handcrafted premium ice cream chain known for small-batch flavors, is preparing to open in La Mesa at 8497 Fletcher Parkway.
The new shop will feature a drive-thru and outdoor seating, taking over a currently unlisted space on the busy Fletcher Parkway corridor, according to the company’s website. While the team initially anticipated an earlier launch, management now expects to open around late September, according to managers Traci Harris and Terry Roberts. The new Bruster’s location is in its final preparation stages and will offer a wide range of fresh, in-house-made frozen treats.
Bruster’s La Mesa will include the brand’s full menu of customizable treats, including milkshakes, sundaes, blasts, and freezes. Customers can expect made-to-order desserts served in fresh-baked waffle cones and bowls. Vegan non-dairy oat milk options, no sugar-added selections, and Italian ice will also be available.
Founded in 1989 by Bruce Reed, Bruster’s has grown to nearly 200 independently owned shops across 22 states and Guyana. The concept is built around fresh, premium ice cream made daily in each store using a slow kettle process. Each location features at least 24 rotating flavors from a recipe bank of over 150 varieties, with offerings designed to cater to both traditional and adventurous palates.
The company emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients, with every scoop starting from a proprietary homestyle dairy mix and blended with real cookies, candies, and other add-ins. The result is a thick, creamy ice cream served just steps from where it’s made.
The La Mesa location aims to serve as a neighborhood destination for family outings, celebrations, and casual visits, with the added convenience of a drive-thru and digital loyalty program through Bruster’s Sweet Rewards.
