NEW YORK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) -- The piña colada was created in Puerto Rico 70 years ago, so it only makes sense that the island is celebrating the milestone on Wednesday, National Piña Colada Day, by teaming up with Van Leeuwen for a culinary collaboration.
On Wednesday, limited edition Discover Puerto Rico Piña Colada ice cream will land in most Van Leeuwen stores in New York City. Plus, a truck will make three stops in Manhattan (schedule below), handing out free scoops. Discover Puerto Rico is the island's tourism arm.
The Brooklyn-based ice cream maker worked with Puerto Rican mixologist Roberto Berdecia and Don Q run to craft the ice cream.
In 1954, Ramón "Monchito" Marrero, a bartender at San Juan's Caribe Hilton was tasked with creating a signature drink "that captured the essence of Puerto Rico. He crafted the first piña colada using Don Q rum, which infused the cocktail with a distinctive Puerto Rican flavor," according to a news release.
"Bringing the vibrant flavors of Puerto Rico to the streets of New York City with this exclusive Piña Colada ice cream is a true celebration of our Island's rich heritage and culture," said Leah Chandler, CMO of Discover Puerto Rico.
She added, "By infusing the expertise of local mixologist Roberto Berdecia and the artistic vision of Cristina Muñoz Laboy, every spoonful promises an authentic taste of Puerto Rico."
Ben Van Leeuwen, cofounder and ceo of Van Leeuwen echoed those sentiments, adding, "We are excited to partner with Discover Puerto Rico to create an exclusive flavor that pays homage to the beloved cocktail and celebrates the Island's beautiful culture."
ICE CREAM TRUCK SCHEDULE - WED. JULY 10, 2024
First Stop: Bryant Park, Manhattan
Time: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Second Stop: Union Square, Manhattan
Time: 1:15 PM - 2:45 PM
Third Stop: 787 Coffee, 204 W 10th St, Manhattan
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM