The spooky season is beginning, and with a local ice cream chain, Salt & Straw, new wonky flavors are being introduced to match the Halloween spirit. Salt & Straw has always been on Portlanders’ minds since it was first introduced in 2011, and its popularity has only risen since then. Similar to dessert shops like Voodoo Donuts, Salt & Straw appeals to that Portland weirdness that everyone loves, and this October is no exception. 

What sets Salt & Straw apart from other ice cream parlors? Not only does Salt & Straw hand-make their ice cream with organic ingredients, but they pride themselves on their creativity when it comes to flavors. Their classic flavors can include Strawberry Honey Balsamic /w Black Pepper or Cold Brew Coffee Cashew Praline. It’s outlandish, but that’s what has people flocking to get in the never-ending line for the cold treat. 

Yet, the flavors that Salt & Straw is known for are the monthly flavors that correspond with moods, holidays, or special events. And you guessed it, the Halloween theme is taking over this month’s ice cream. With a total of five flavors to choose from: Black Cat Licorice & Lavender, Don Bugito’s Creepy Crawler Critters, The Great Candycopia, Jack o’ Lantern Pumpkin Bread, and Double Bubble Toil & Trouble. If you want a taste of the Halloween season, Salt & Straw may be a great place to go to fulfill your dessert desires.

Starting with Black Cat Licorice & Lavender, a smooth yet strong flavor for black licorice lovers. With a mix of caramel, licorice, and salted lavender, this flavor offers a prominent and intense taste. If you’re looking for something with a kick of spice but also ominous, this flavor is the way to go. 

Don Bugito’s Creepy Crawler Critters feels like the headlining flavor out of the five flavors. Hidden within the matcha taste are toffee-brittle mealworms and chocolate crickets. But, don’t be fooled, this flavor still has a nice mellow matcha taste with only the occasional crunch of one of the critters. This ice cream poses a challenge for someone feeling adventurous; you may be in for a surprise with its delightful flavor, contrary to its scary description. 

The Great Candycopia is the trick-or-treaters forte. A blend of Reese’s, Kit-Kat, Snickers, and Heath Bars, in salted butterscotch ice cream, makes the ultimate chocolate treat. This flavor does have a sweetness level that some may not be able to tolerate, so be wary. But for those seeking a chocolate candy powerhouse, The Great Candycopia is a sweet choice.

Jack o’ Lantern Pumpkin Bread is a fantastic way to spark the fall mood. With bits of pumpkin bread and whipped cream cheese frosting infused into the ice cream, it creates a soft and fluffy taste that many can’t pass up. If you’re craving the warm taste of fall and its festivities, this flavor is calling your name.  

Double Bubble Toil & Trouble flips the script compared to the other four flavors. It brings us an electric taste of sweet bubble gum that feels like a more fruit-similar flavor. The texture of this scoop also seems like sorbet, and it fits perfectly with the smooth and sugary taste. Double Bubble Toil & Trouble contrasts with the other flavors, but it still holds the enjoyable sweetness of bubble gum that anyone can savor.

Salt & Straw, once again, did not disappoint with its absurd ice cream flavors and shows that even if it’s freezing or pouring down rain, you can still enjoy a scoop of ice cream. So, if you ever find yourself with some time during this Halloween season and are looking for a treat; Salt & Straw could be the perfect stop for your friends and family to try something out of the ordinary, but nonetheless, delicious.