We have all found ourselves screaming for ice cream at some time or another this summer, and thankfully for those roaming the arts district in downtown Phoenix, Melt is here to help.
Located on one of the most creative and artistic streets in the city, 5th Street, Melt took over the previous Native American food joint, Rezbot, and has been up and running for about three weeks now under the supervision of Jobot Coffee and Bodega 420 owner John Sagasta.
“I feel like Jobot’s on its own thing now and is really just maintenance for me, so I felt like opening this new thing would be fun,” Sagasta said.
Orignially, Sagasta was at a loss as to what to do with the space after Rezbot closed up shop.
“I didn’t want it to sit empty, because I feel like that’s the problem with downtown Phoenix,” Sagasta said. “It’s a lack of density. It’s those gaps in between businesses that kill the action and vibe.”
Thankfully for Sagasta, he happened to stumble upon ice cream shop equipment at a sale and also formed a connection with Casey Stechnij, owner of Superstition Farm and Udder Delights Ice Cream, which is featured at Melt.
“He’s really conscious about his product, and that’s what I like about him. … He won’t put any fillers or anything in there,” Sagasta said.
For Sagasta, the local and natural approach with Melt’s delectable desserts is all about sustainability.
“I’m putting all my eggs in this basket, and I want to help out down here as much as possible,” Sagasta said.
Exotic flavors such as watermelon-cilantro and cucumber are a part of Melt's menu, as well as the super-sweet vanilla birthday cake and carrot cake. All of these and more, combined with a Nutella-esque "Superfarm" with hazelnuts, give Melt customers a variety of flavors and textures from which to choose.
As for any further expansion or cosmetic upgrades to the space, Sagasta said he couldn’t predict the future, but that Melt is plenty satisfying for now.
He plans to implement new smoothie drinks this coming week, and said that pastry items like ice cream sandwiches and his personal cone creation, deemed by customers as “the lover bowl for two,” are anticipated to join the menu soon.
Reach the reporter at kgumpert@asu.edu or follow them on Twitter @cat2bekittenmee.
