Nuttaporn Ice Cream - นัฐพรไอศครีมกะทิสด

Nuttaporn Ice Cream has been part of Bangkok’s culinary landscape for nearly 80 years. Founded by her grandmother, the family-run shop is now in its third generation. Nattaporn Rungrotesuwan has recently turned 70 but continues the family tradition by preserving its original flavours while adapting to changing tastes.

Originally named Phraeng Phuthon Ice Cream after the street where it began, the shop was later renamed Nuttaporn Ice Cream following customers’ suggestions that a more distinctive and catchy name would help protect its identity and attract the younger generation.

In the beginning there was only one flavour, coconut milk. The ice cream was served using a wooden ladle. Today, a conventional scoop has replaced it and the menu has expanded to include coffee, mango and matcha. The ice cream still retains its signature shaved, snow like texture setting it apart from more familiar Western style varieties.

The next generation has yet to step behind the counter, with the younger family members still busy finding their own way in the world. Nuttaporn laughed that they might eventually make their way back if all else fails and they find themselves out of a job.

The shop has seen its fair share of unexpected turns, including having its Facebook page hacked. Beyond that, its future is closely tied to the land it sits on. Located on royal owned property, the shop has benefited from relatively affordable rent. But with developers reshaping much of Bangkok, Nuttaporn hopes her shop will be spared. For now a newly renewed 15 year lease gives her some reassurance that Nuttaporn Ice Cream will be around for years to come.

Among the shop’s regulars is Bodim who first visited with his father while still in primary school. A longtime fan of the coconut milk flavour which he considers the best in town. He continues to return, recently making the trip from Don Mueang with his colleagues from Chulalongkorn University on their day off.