Salt & Straw started in Portland, Oregon, in 2011. It was founded by cousins Kim and Tyler Malek. The brand began as a small ice cream cart.
What made it stand out was its unusual flavors. The founders mixed classic ice cream bases with unexpected ingredients. Many of these ingredients came from local farms and makers.
From the start, Salt & Straw focused on seasonal flavors. Instead of selling the same scoops all year, the menu changes often. Flavors may include fresh fruit, herbs, honey, baked goods, and even savory items.
This creative style fit well with Portland’s food culture. It helped the brand grow a loyal following long before it expanded to other cities.
