Buttercup Ice Creams & Chowders: A Culinary Gem in the Heart of Nehalem, Oregon
Right on the super-cute main strip of Nehalem, Oregon, is Buttercup Ice Creams & Chowders, a culinary oasis that captures the essence of the Pacific Northwest like no other. Tucked next door to the charming Nehalem Riverside Trading, this delightful little shop is a treasure trove of flavors that are sure to leave you craving for more.
Buttercup's commitment to local, seasonal, and organic ingredients shines through in every mouthwatering bite and spoonful. Julie, the owner and a seasoned restauranteur, has crafted a menu that elevates the concept of gourmet ice cream and chowders to a whole new level. The result? A dining experience that's truly out-of-this-world.
Now, let's talk chowders. The seasonal soups at Buttercup are an epicurean journey through flavor, with options like braised beef, northwest clam, red and green Thai curry, butternut squash, Malaysian Laksa, chowder with chorizo meatballs, and even a smoked oyster chowder.
But that's not all - Buttercup also serves delights like smoked pulled pork chili and gazpacho, allowing for a diverse range of flavors to suit any palate. And the best part? You can customize your chowder with chicken, seafood, or tofu for a small upcharge, making it the perfect meal for everyone.
On the sweet side of things, Buttercup's homemade ice creams are a dream come true. The seasonal ice cream selections are a testament to their creativity, featuring flavors like pumpkin spice latte, PB&J on a brown butter cone, sweet potato molasses, burnt chocolate, malted maple bacon, blackberry pina colada, coconut butter pecan, blueberry mascarpone cheesecake, honey lemon balm on a brown butter cone, nectarine white chocolate with raspberry swirl, triple ginger, and marshmallow ice cream on a chocolate-dipped graham cracker cone. With most options being gluten-free, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
And should you want to savor the goodness at home, pints are available for grab-and-go, ensuring that you can continue to enjoy Buttercup's divine flavors even after you leave the shop.
But Buttercup is more than just a place to indulge your taste buds; it's an experience. Head around back to the deck or gravel sitting area right alongside the serene Nehalem River, and you'll find the perfect setting to savor your cone or chowder. It's a moment of tranquility and connection with nature that's hard to find elsewhere.
The team at Buttercup, led by the creative mind Julie herself, never fails to impress. Their passion for crafting incredible soups and ice creams is evident in every serving, and their warm and welcoming service makes every visit special.
Buttercup is open four days a week, from 11:30 AM until 5 PM, making it a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike. It's a significant part of what makes Nehalem and the North Oregon Coast so special. So, if you find yourself in this picturesque part of the world, make sure to stop by Buttercup Ice Creams & Chowders for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Your taste buds will thank you!