Think McVitie’s Penguin bars, Heinz Baked Beans, Sarson’s Vinegar, Branston Piccalilli, and even Bird’s Custard.

 

When summer finally hits the UK, ice cream becomes a national obsession. But instead of grabbing a classic 99 Flake or a bowl of Neapolitan, one writer decided to take things up a notch at Anya Hindmarch’s annual Ice Cream Project in London.

 

 

 

The pop-up shop is no ordinary parlour. It offers an eccentric menu of 15 unusual ice cream flavours inspired by everyday brands and cupboard staples.

 

Served in a playful “Russian Roulette” style afternoon tea, the flavours come in numbered tubs, leaving visitors guessing whether they’ll get a sweet treat or a savoury shock.

 

The writer braved the full tasting session, spooning through all 15 mini tubs. Thankfully, the first scoop turned out to be the indulgent McVitie’s Penguin flavour, rich and brownie-like in texture. Next came Bird’s Custard, its smooth sweetness a welcome relief from the threat of vinegar or beans. Sun-Pat Peanut Butter followed, satisfying even without being a personal favourite.

 

The experience was part delight, part dread. With each spoonful, there was the risk of hitting a flavour that clashed with traditional expectations of ice cream. The novelty lies not only in the taste but in the guessing game—was that pot lemon barley water, or something much stranger?

 

The Ice Cream Project has quickly become a quirky highlight of London’s foodie scene, drawing curious crowds keen to test their taste buds. For those looking to go beyond vanilla and chocolate this summer, it’s a bold and bizarre way to do it.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

Anya Hindmarch’s Ice Cream Project offers 15 unusual flavours, from Baked Beans to Piccalilli.

 

The tasting is styled as “Russian Roulette,” with flavours hidden until revealed.

 

Standout options included McVitie’s Penguin, Bird’s Custard, and Sun-Pat Peanut Butter.

 

 

Adapted From:

 

https://www.dailystar.co.uk/real-life/i-tried-ice-cream-russian-33402723

 

 

Looking forward to Ortolan bird flavored ice cream.

Hard pass. I'll stick with Chocolate and Vanilla.  🙂