Graeter's Ice Cream, a cherished Cincinnati institution, has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The story begins in 1870 when Louis Charles Graeter started selling ice cream from a cart in Cincinnati. He used the French pot method, a small-batch process that creates a dense and creamy texture, setting Graeter's apart from other ice creams.
Louis's business grew quickly due to the popularity of his ice cream, and he soon opened a storefront in Cincinnati. In 1900, Louis married Regina Berger, and together they expanded the business. After Louis's untimely death in 1919, Regina took over the company, demonstrating remarkable business acumen. She opened new locations and continued to emphasize quality and tradition, ensuring the French pot method remained at the heart of their production.
Throughout the 20th century, Graeter's remained a family-run business. Regina's sons, Wilmer and Paul, joined the company and helped it expand further. Despite challenges, including the Great Depression and World War II, Graeter's continued to thrive due to its dedication to quality and its loyal customer base.
Graeter's has always been known for its unique production process. The French pot method involves making ice cream two gallons at a time, which allows for better control over the quality and consistency of the product. This method also makes it possible to incorporate large chunks of ingredients, like their famous chocolate chips, which are more akin to chocolate chunks due to their size and irregular shape.
In the 1980s and 1990s, Graeter's began to expand beyond Cincinnati, opening stores in other cities and eventually offering their ice cream in grocery stores across the country. Their commitment to quality remained unchanged, with each batch of ice cream still made using the French pot method.
In the 21st century, Graeter's has continued to grow while staying true to its roots. The company is now run by the fourth generation of the Graeter family, who continue to uphold the traditions and values established by their ancestors. The brand has received national acclaim, including recognition from Oprah Winfrey, who declared Graeter's her favorite ice cream.
Today, Graeter's offers a wide range of flavors, from classic favorites like Black Raspberry Chocolate Chip to seasonal specialties. Despite its growth, Graeter's remains committed to the principles of quality and tradition, making each batch of ice cream with the same care and attention to detail that Louis Charles Graeter did over 150 years ago. This dedication has made Graeter's a beloved brand, not just in Cincinnati, but across the United States.
