Carmela Ice Cream makes seasonal ice creams completely from scratch in small batches using fresh, REAL ingredients. Nothing artificial - No stabilizers or emulsifiers, preservatives or colorings. Just whole milk, heavy cream, cane sugar and egg yolks infused with local and seasonal produce, herbs and spices.
Founded in 2007 by Jessica Mortarotti, Carmela has been a pioneer in farm-to-table artisan ice cream and is known for profiling seasonal and local California produce in our award-winning flavors.
Mortarotti launched the business in the farmers’ markets around Los Angeles where she could interact directly with local farmers and use their produce to synergistically inspire her creations.
As the first artisan ice cream company to enter the scene during the food renaissance in Los Angeles, Carmela became known as the go-to for gourmet connoisseurs and within the first year of operation was featured in Bon Appetit Magazine and won Best of LA for the first time from LA Magazine, amongst many other accolades and press.
Shortly after Mortarotti launched Carmela Ice Cream’s catering business that continues to provide a refined and delicious element to parties and events throughout Southern California.
Today Carmela has two retail locations - the original Pasadena creamery and a boutique scoop shop in Palm Springs. Catering is available throughout southern California.
