West Village dessert fans are about to get a lot more cardamom in their cones. Malai, the South Asian inspired ice cream brand known for flavors built on spices like cardamom, rose and saffron, is opening a Manhattan scoop shop in the neighborhood on Saturday, May 9, 2026. The new Christopher Street storefront will serve pints, ice cream cakes, kulfi pops and ice cream sandwiches, plus a rotating soft-serve program. The opening marks a return to Manhattan for a brand that first built its following at local markets and pop-ups.
Opening day deals and hours
For opening day, Malai plans to sell single scoops for $3 and give the first 50 customers a free insulated bag with purchase. The debut will also feature limited-time promotions and discounted scoops, according to WhatNow. The outlet lists the shop at 9 Christopher Street and notes hours of 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Flavors and soft-serve program
Malai’s menu leans heavily on South Asian spices and seasonal twists, with a soft-serve lineup that has previously included flavors like saffron and pistachio, according to Eater NY. Fans can expect both familiar options such as Mango & Cream and Masala Chai and more adventurous combinations like Rose with Cinnamon Almonds or Red Chili Chocolate.
About the brand
Founder Pooja Bavishi grew Malai from market stalls and pop-ups into a flagship shop in Carroll Gardens, and the company’s site also lists locations in Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia, per Malai. The West Village debut is the latest move in a steady New York expansion that has relied on events, wholesale and city pop-ups to build a loyal following.
The shop opens Saturday, May 9, and locals should expect lines throughout opening weekend as regulars and newcomers work through the flavor board. With $3 scoops on day one and a rotating soft-serve program in the mix, Malai is set to add a distinctly spiced contender to the neighborhood’s ice cream circuit.
