By Mike Kinney
Edgar Padilla’s family shares an important tradition: going out for ice cream once per week.
“We use that time to bond,” Padilla said.
Padilla imagines that many families share the same tradition, which is part of the inspiration behind Waffles & Cream, a new dessert spot he owns and operates at 12513 San Pablo Ave in Richmond.
“I figured like my family there are many others who share the same love for ice cream as ours and therefore I saw the opportunity to offer a nice place for the locals to hang out and get ice cream,” said Padilla.
Hence the neon sign on the Waffles & Cream interior wall that reads, “Count the blessings, not the calories.”
Founded in October 2022, Waffles & Cream is a colorful addition to a block that also boasts popular businesses The Factory Bar and Tacos El Tucan.
Padilla, age 32, was born and raised in Richmond, graduating from Richmond High in 2009.
He started making waffle creations when he was much younger as a hobby, and many people encouraged him to go into business due to his skills and passion. While Padilla buys ice cream for his business from a third party, the waffles are made in-house.
His shop also offers variety: 18 ice cream flavors on various cones and waffles. Just added to the menu are eight cashew milk ice creams that are free of dairy, gluten, soy and cholesterol.
“The ice cream we sell is from local sources,” Padilla said. “One of the most popular ice cream flavors that we sell is ‘Cookie Monster.’”
Other popular items include the Monster Shake, Belgian Delight, Churrafle and the S’mores liege waffle.
The early reviews on Yelp have been positive.
“Came here for dessert tonight and it was another hit,” stated one reviewer. “My girlfriend and I ordered the Nutella and strawberry on the liege waffle. It took a bit of time to get it as the waffle is made fresh, but it was worth it!”
A reviewer from Hercules called Waffles and Cream a “great spot for a sweet tooth fixin’!”
“Cute décor and staff are super friendly,” she added.
Padilla said he’s been grateful for the community’s support for the new business.
“The public is very excited to have an ice cream and waffle shop close to their homes, and they always show gratitude,” he said.
When he’s not working, Padilla said he spends time with his family and is often out and about on 23rd Street, San Pablo Ave. and other local locations looking to try out and support new businesses.
Waffles & Cream opens Tuesdays through Fridays from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 10 p.m. In addition, the business provides deliveries through Doordash.
To learn more, visit Waffles & Cream’s website here, its Facebook page here and on Instagram here.
