Hangry Bear Creamery is not your average ice cream shop. Owned and operated by Melinda Shaw and her husband, Hangry Bear combines a love for dairy, a passion for food science, and a family-friendly atmosphere to offer a unique hands-on experience in Kennett Square.
Melinda Shaw’s journey to opening Hangry Bear Creamery began over a decade ago with a strong foundation in food science and hospitality. She helped develop and launch the renowned UDairy Creamery at the University of Delaware in 2011, where she served as the Manager of Creamery Operations. Under her guidance, UDairy became famous for its on-site ice cream production, made with milk from the university’s farm. Melinda’s role included not only managing operations but also teaching college courses in the science of cheese and ice cream.
With a rich background in both dairy science and business, she saw an opportunity to share her knowledge through an interactive, community-centered space.
A Sweet Idea:
Melinda noticed that people were increasingly curious about how ice cream is made. Inspired by this interest, she envisioned Hangry Bear as a hands-on “Ice Cream Studio” where guests could create their own unique flavors while learning the science and history of ice cream. It’s an educational yet delicious experience that has quickly captured the hearts of the community.
Melinda Shaw and her husband who live in Landenberg, frequent Kennett and decided that Kennett Square would be the ideal home for Hangry Bear Creamery, due to its family friendly vibe.
Where did the name come from?
When asked about the name, Melinda laughed, explaining that “Hangry is a family problem!” The “Bear” part comes from her son, Charlie, who earned the nickname “Charlie Bear” during his time in the NICU. Now six years old and in first grade, Charlie’s spirited nature and nickname add a personal, family-inspired touch to the brand.
Hangry Bear Creamery isn’t just an ice cream parlor; it’s also a casual eatery offering coffee, lunch, and dinner. Open every day except Tuesday from 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM, it’s the ideal spot for a quick meal, a tasty treat, or a family dinner.
For adults, Hangry Bear also serves locally sourced alcoholic cider beverages, primarily from Old Stone Cider. Their menu strikes a balance between fun and convenience, welcoming all types of customers.
For those interested in a more interactive experience, Hangry Bear hosts ice cream parties with a minimum group size of four, where participants can craft their own flavors during a one-hour session. Larger groups of up to sixteen people can rent the whole studio, creating up to four different batches in a lively, collaborative atmosphere.
From birthday parties for kids, to team-building events for local businesses, Hangry Bear Creamery is a go-to venue for private parties. Every other Friday, they host “Date Night,” which is a sweet chance for couples to bond.
For Melinda Shaw and her family, it’s more than just a business; it’s a way to share their love of food science, community, and creativity—one scoop at a time.
