Up North Ice Cream Company — Restaurant in Alexandria

Disappointed in Our Daughter’s First Job Experience - Up North Ice Cream Company, Just because your local, doesnt make you better. Our daughter Erica worked four shifts this spring at Up North Ice Cream Company—a local business—on March 27, April 9, April 18, and May 4. She finally received her first (and only) paycheck on June 16. After noticing she had been removed from the company’s communication app, Erica reached out and was told she had been let go—something she was never informed of directly. The owner cited insurance limitations requiring staff reductions, yet no communication was ever made to her regarding her termination. Weeks passed without any update or paycheck. When we contacted the owner, we were told her check had been “sitting there” and would now be mailed—despite no previous attempt to notify or deliver it. When Casey called to address the delay, the owner abruptly hung up. Later, he messaged us blaming Erica for misspelling her own address on her paperwork. Despite our respectful outreach, we were met with defensiveness and condescension. The owner dismissed our concerns, referenced his “million dollar business,” and warned that if any member of our family entered the property, the police would be called for trespassing. We understand that mistakes happen—on both sides—but how those mistakes are handled speaks volumes. This situation escalated unnecessarily due to over-hiring, poor communication, and a lack of care for a teenager simply trying to succeed at her first job. We’re sharing this not to accuse, but to advocate—for our daughter and for all young workers. First jobs are foundational. Teens deserve respect, clear communication, and timely pay—not blame, threats, or dismissal. – Casey & Tracey Olson #SupportYoungWorkers #DoBetter #FairPay #CommunityMatters...

I really wanted to give this ice cream shop five stars however, when I asked what was in the kitchen sink ice cream, the owner sharply said… “just like the name says, everything but the kitchen sink.” I said “so does it have nuts?” He said “no” I then asked if it had the nerds “he said “no” … it would have been much kinder for him to tell me what it did have since he claims to make the ice cream… 🤷‍♀️ After we were served and were sitting down, a group with two moms and seven children came in and the owner who was scooping ice cream was very rude to the young girl asking which ice creams were gluten-free. They were the only people waiting to get served so why so short with the girl is mind boggling. While the ice cream was good, our waffle cones were stale which is always disappointing as ice cream and waffle cones in our go to dessert. As others have mentioned, the portions are small for the cost that you pay. I am not opposed to paying for good ice cream, but after visiting dozens of ice cream places in the past couple years, I know when I am being over charged. I wouldn’t say, “don’t stop by here” I would just say “be prepared for paying a lot and possibly...

Back visiting family during Memorial Day, was excited to stop in and try this new ice cream shop that didn't exist when we lived here. Upon asking for a third sample, I was scolded by the manager/owner for trying too many samples and that the limit was two. I said I didn't see anything posted. He pointed at his head and said, "It's up here." I was blown away, 20 flavors and you're gonna limit people to two samples? His tone and voice inflection were incredibly rude. When I challenged him on it, he essentially said, "I don't need your business." Needless to say we won't be going back. And I'm gonna guess is upon our next return, this place will be closed down. There's no way it survives with leader who doesn't understand sampling is the number one way to sell food. I'm guessing his business is already struggling, which is why he's in a bad mood. How sad.

6/19/25 Follow-up: While reviewing the reviews, discovered the owner is also a liar. My wife left a review and he left a rebuttal claiming we were intoxicated which is laughable since we don’t drink. The owner is an incredibly twisted narcissist who should not be running a business in the...