One of Phoenix’s most popular ice cream shops is continuing its expansion throughout the Valley with a new location inside a historic Tempe building.
Novel Ice Cream, which was recently named best ice cream shop in the U.S. — and also one of the best doughnut shops, despite having only one on the menu — is set to open its fourth location inside the former House of Tricks building in Tempe, also known as the Harry Walker house.
The house has been an iconic staple near Seventh Street and South Forest Avenue since 1903. Developers have taken over that lot and are working on a 30-story apartment tower. But the historic Harry Walker house was not demolished. Instead, the house was lifted onto wheels and transported in its complete form to a new spot near Tempe City Hall.
Novel Ice Cream owner Shawn Allard is an ASU alum, which he said is part of the reason he wanted to bring the shop to Tempe.
“Being an alumni, I know the area well. I think it was pretty underserved for a long time,” Allard told The Republic. “I really wanted to bring a concept that I know people would really enjoy. Mill Avenue is a happy place to be, and I wanted to be part of that growth.”
What to expect at Novel Ice Cream Tempe
Like Novel’s other locations, the Tempe shop will feature a walk-up order window and plenty of outside seating. The rest of the building will be used as the company’s headquarters and office space.
Novel Ice Cream’s iconic menu is the same at all of its locations: ice cream cups or cones with either one, two or three scoops; ice cream and soda floats; ice cream stuffed waffles; and the most popular item, the dough melt, comprising a glazed donut stuffed with ice cream.
Novel Ice Cream Tempe opening date
An exact opening date has not yet been revealed, but Novel Tempe is expected to open sometime in mid-2026.
Reporting by Endia Fontanez, Arizona Republic
