Q & A with Innocent Ice Cream
Born from childhood memories, a tin can, some rock salt, and a dream, this sweet little spot is the heartwork of owner Asacia.
Q – What was the defining moment or experience that sparked your passion for opening your business? Why did you choose this neighbourhood as the perfect backdrop for it?
Some of my fondest childhood memories are making ice cream the old-fashioned way with my mom, tin cans, rock salt, ice, and all. We’d bake cookies from scratch and sandwich that creamy goodness right between them. Those treats were magic to me. Our first shop was on Main Street, but as someone who’s lived in Hastings-Sunrise for almost 2 decades, moving the business here just felt like coming home. I love this neighbourhood’s diversity, its heartbeat, and its people. It was never a question of if we’d bring our business here, but when.
Q- Was there a pivotal moment in your journey where you realized you wanted to bring something new to the world, whether through food, service, or the experience you offer? What pushed you to take the leap?
Honestly, it all started by accident! I was just making ice cream sandwiches for friends and family like I always had, and one day, people I didn’t know started asking if they could order them for parties and events. Before I knew it, I was making more for people I hadn’t even met than for the friends and family who started it all. That’s when I realized I had something special to offer—something that brought joy and nostalgia. It wasn’t about launching a business, it was about sharing something I loved—and then it became a business
Q- Every business has its own soul. How would you describe the vibe and experience of shopping local with you? What makes your place stand out in the neighbourhood scene?
We’re family-run, and you can feel the heart as soon as you walk through our doors. It’s playful, welcoming, and a little quirky—in the best way. Whether you’re grabbing a scoop with your kids or picking flavours for your wedding, we’re here to make your day a little brighter. Plus, we’re the only shop around that’s entirely gluten-free and offers safe options for folks who are dairy-free and egg-free. Everyone deserves a treat they don’t have to second-guess.
Q- How does your business fit into the fabric of this neighbourhood, and what kind of relationship do you hope to cultivate with its community?
We’re proudly woman-led, and we make a conscious effort to support other local, women-owned and BIPOC-led businesses—from the ingredients we source to the people we collaborate with. Community is at the core of what we do. We don’t just want to sell ice cream—we want to be part of the neighbourhood’s story. Whether it’s popping up at school fundraisers, supporting small makers, or just sharing laughs with our regulars, we’re here for the long haul and the heart-to-hearts.
Q- When you step away from the hustle of running your business, where do you love to unwind in the neighbourhood, and what makes that spot special to you?
Oh, I have my little go-tos depending on the mood! When I need to shake off the stress and let loose, I head to Jackalopes. For that sense of connection you only get in a neighbourhood where people actually stop and chat with each other, I take my dog to Pandora Park. When I’m craving calm and a touch of refinement, Dashi is my little oasis. And if I need a full-body reset, I visit Sarah at the Village for acupuncture. These places keep me grounded—and sane!
Q- Looking ahead, what kind of legacy do you hope your business will leave behind? Are there any exciting plans, collaborations, or changes coming soon that you’re excited to share with the community?
This location actually holds deep personal meaning—my dad used to take me to the Dairy Queen that once stood where our shop is now. Sharing Peanut Buster Parfaits with him is one of my most endearing memories. I want our shop to create those kinds of moments for others—a place where memories are made and smiles come easily. As for what’s next? Let’s just say we’ve got some fun collaborations and community projects cooking up. We’re always dreaming up ways to do more, give more, and sprinkle a little extra joy around.
Q- There are so many hidden gems in this neighbourhood. If you could only visit one other spot in the neighbourhood – whether it’s a shop, restaurant, or café – what would it be, and what draws you there?
I can’t pick just one! I love wandering into places full of random, delightful treasures. My perfect “hidden gem” day would start at Billy Would for one-of-a-kind handmade pieces that reflect the creativity of this community. I’d meander through Mama’s Consignment, Juicy Cherry Vintage, and Shop Woven, before wrapping it all up at VGH Thrift. It’s a mix of nostalgia, creativity, and the unexpected, which is probably why I feel right at home there.
Q- There’s always something about a business that most people don’t know. What’s a surprising or unexpected fact about you or your restaurant that would make people think differently?
Not many people know that I grew up in a one-room cabin with no running water or electricity. When we finally got power, we had this tiny TV that only got CBC. My mom let us watch Little House on the Prairie and would say, “See? Other people live like this too, Asacia.” My childhood shaped everything for me— my work ethic, my appreciation for simple things, and my desire to build something warm, meaningful, and grounded in real connection.
Q- As a chef or owner, you likely have your go-to tools or ingredients that help bring your vision to life. What’s one item you can’t live without, and how does it elevate your work?
Hands down, it’s my Mexican vanilla. I have it shipped from Veracruz, and I swear by it. It has this gorgeous, deep, creamy, spicy-sweet flavour that brings my ice cream and cookies to life. It’s the ingredient that quietly does the heavy lifting—it deepens every flavour and gives everything a little extra.
Photography by: https://www.michalurbanek.com/
