Our Story

Starting with only the freshest and finest ingredients, master chef Jim Capannari creates each of his super-premium flavors by expertly blending just four gallons of ice cream at a time, guaranteeing the freshest,  most flavorful, super-premium ice cream.

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Family Owned & Operated

Capannari Ice Cream is the combined venture of Jim & Meg Capannari and Ken & Katie Dix (Katie and Meg are sisters). Since opening the doors in June 2001, they have catapulted their gourmet ice cream shop to one of Illinois’ most respected small businesses, earning the honor of “Best Ice Cream in Chicago” from Chicago Magazine only 1 year after opening. Today, Capannari Ice Cream employs over 40 people to bring “Chicago’s Best” ice cream to the masses.

Check out this video about Capannari Ice Cream!

Award-Winning Flavors

In addition to a wide variety of all-time classics, Jim masterfully creates truly distinctive, mouth-watering flavors, like rich & decadent Black Raspberry Chip, seasonal favorites like Irish Coffee and Pumpkin, and gourmet flavors like Ginger and Chocolate Hazelnut Ganache. From classic Vanilla to upscale Lavendar, Capannari Ice Creams have been widely recognized and honored for their rich, super-premium taste & texture. Check out all of our scrumptious flavors!

Community Involvement

Capannari Ice Cream is a much beloved fixture in the community. Every year, Capannari Ice Cream hosts a multitude of free, fun, all-family events, including their signature Mooo-vie Nights and Concert-In-The-Park Series. Capannari Ice Cream supports local schools and children with events like their annual Coolest School Contest and I Pledge (featured here). They also maintain an active presence in local, community-based events. Check out Capannari’s full calendar of free events!

A Historical Setting

Evoking simpler times reminiscent of a Norman Rockwell painting, Capannari’s old-fashioned ice cream parlor is located in the original Moehling General Store and Post Office, built in downtown Mount Prospect in 1882. One of the town’s first establishments, the vintage two-story, wood-frame building was authentically restored and still features the original beams and white oak floors, along with an inviting, relaxing, wrap-around front porch. Well-known, Capannari Ice Cream is a destination for people of all ages who come to enjoy a scoop, relax, and build memories together.

“The decision to use Capannari Ice Cream for our employee ice cream social was a great one. Their staff was courteous, friendly and professional. They brought about the feeling of an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and our staff raved about the ice cream.”
Brenda T.

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