Tyra Banks, the iconic supermodel and television personality, is set to make a splash in Washington, D.C. with the launch of her first-ever scoop shop in Woodley Park. The pop-up, named SMiZE & DREAM, will open its doors on July 19 at 2653 Connecticut Ave NW, offering a unique ice cream experience that promises to delight locals and tourists alike.
Banks, who has seamlessly transitioned from the runway to the world of ice cream entrepreneurship, started her company, Smize Cream, five years ago. The name “Smize” is a playful nod to her famous term “smiling with your eyes,” which she popularized during her time as the host of “America’s Next Top Model.” While Smize Cream has had pop-ups in California and a stand in Dubai, the D.C. location marks a significant step in the brand’s expansion.
The Woodley Park pop-up, dubbed the “Flavor Studio,” will serve as a temporary haven for ice cream lovers through September. What sets Smize Cream apart is its rich, custard-based ice cream, which is more buttery and indulgent than traditional ice cream. Each serving comes with a hidden “Smize Surprize,” a flavored truffle that adds an extra layer of delight to every scoop.
To celebrate the opening, the shop will feature a special D.C.-themed flavor called “Cap Hill Crunch.” This unique creation combines Cap’n Crunch-infused ice cream with a swirl of toffee and cereal-soaked French toast pieces, offering a taste that is both nostalgic and innovative. Additionally, a new limited-edition flavor will be introduced each week, ensuring that there is always something fresh and exciting for visitors to try.
Banks’ venture is not just about serving delicious ice cream; it also has a philanthropic angle. Following the summer pop-up, SMiZE & DREAM plans to invest in D.C.’s culinary education by establishing a nonprofit ice cream and entrepreneurial learning center. This initiative aims to educate underserved youth about the ice cream industry, covering everything from production to sales. The program will eventually extend globally, fostering cross-cultural collaboration and enriching connections for D.C. youth.
The opening day promises to be a memorable event, with the first 202 guests in line receiving a free scoop of ice cream. This gesture is a nod to the local community and a way to generate excitement for the new venture. Banks has expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating that she is “living [her] sweetest dream” and hopes to inspire others to dream big as well.
Banks’ choice of Woodley Park for the pop-up is strategic. The neighborhood is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to the National Zoo, making it an ideal location for an ice cream shop. Banks also has a personal connection to the area, as her brother Devin, a 28-year Air Force veteran who now works on Capitol Hill, lives nearby. This familial tie adds an extra layer of significance to the venture.
The SMiZE & DREAM pop-up is more than just an ice cream shop; it’s a celebration of creativity, community, and empowerment. Banks’ journey from fashion to food may seem unconventional, but it is a natural progression for someone who has always embraced indulgence and innovation. Her team has hinted at the possibility of a permanent location in D.C. if the pop-up proves successful, which would be a welcome addition to the city’s culinary landscape.
In addition to the ice cream shop, Banks has other exciting projects in the pipeline. A SMiZE & DREAM graphic novel is in the works, further expanding the brand’s reach and influence. This multifaceted approach underscores Banks’ commitment to creating a brand that is not only about delicious treats but also about storytelling and community engagement.
As the summer heats up, the SMiZE & DREAM pop-up in Woodley Park offers a cool and delightful escape. With its unique flavors, hidden surprises, and commitment to empowering youth, it is poised to become a beloved destination for ice cream enthusiasts in D.C. and beyond. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the city, a trip to SMiZE & DREAM promises to be a memorable experience that will leave you smiling—and smizing.
Source: Anna Spiegel, Taylor Hill/WireImage, Washingtonian Media Inc.
