Our Story
In 2009, native St. Louisan Elaine Hauck founded Dottie’s Ice Cream Parlor. Inspired to take on a new challenge, Hauck has worked with family and friends to bring her vision of a sustainable ice cream parlor to fruition. The fun and flavorful eco-chic atmosphere provides a place that the whole family can enjoy.
At its core, Dottie’s is about family, fun, and the simplicity of enjoying a scoop, swirl, or sip of your favorite frosty treat — while keeping the environmental impact of our actions in mind. Providing experiential education to schoolchildren on field trips, Dottie’s showcases how the smallest things can make a big difference — from using energy efficient appliances to wearing earth-friendly uniforms. One visit to Dottie’s, and you’ll agree — caring for our planet can be one sweet treat!
Who’s Dottie?
Owner Elaine Hauck’s mother, Dottie Ryan, opened and operated “Dottie’s Ice Cream Parlor” in north St. Louis County in the late 1970s. While Dottie has since passed, her memory lives on in the delightful ice cream shop that carries her name.
Dottie Ryan
Simply Sustainable
At Dottie’s Ice Cream Parlor, going green is a way of life. Each element of our ice cream shop takes this into consideration, making Dottie’s the first Green Restaurant® Certified ice cream shop.
Dottie’s earned 3-Star Green Restaurant® Certification through water and energy efficiencies, waste reduction and recycling, utilizing sustainable materials, among other earth-friendly initiatives.
We are committed to growing our sustainable business practices as we seek to provide our children, grandchildren, and communities with the tools and knowledge to leave the world a bit better for their families and future generations.
Dottie’s earth-friendly operations include:
- Containers and straws made from corn resin (PLA)
- Uniforms made from hemp and bamboo
- Booths and counters made from recycled concrete and glass
- Solar powered signage
- Trash cans made from recycled milk jugs
- Energy and water conservation
- Composting