The scoop on the new downtown business is joy

No, the new Clydesdale Creamery Milkshake Saloon and Espresso at 16 Baker Ave., does not serve ice cream made with Clydesdale milk, though that is a running joke among the crew. 

The new downtown shop, a creation of Clydesdale Outpost CEO Matt Arnold-Ladensack, primarily serves over-the-top milkshakes. They also offer gourmet, handmade s’mores, along with exquisite espresso and coffee drinks. 

“I wanted to bring something that brought joy to people and I figured ice cream is the way to do it,” said Arnold-Ladensack. “We want it to be a super-welcoming space for everyone and our motto is ‘shake up joy’ because we want to have this really wonderful, joyous experience when people come into the shop.” 

The vibe inside the Clydesdale Creamery is rustic but modern and everything, from the food to the decor, is locally sourced. 

“Our ice cream is from Farm to Table Ice Cream in Columbia Falls, and our baked goods are, as well,” Arnold-Ladensack said. “We're going to be the only shop serving C Cups Cupcakery cupcakes.” 

Local artists have produced art for the walls, which are built with wood reclaimed from local barns.

The Clydesdale Outpost Guest Ranch has been operating north of Whitefish for two years. Last year, Arnold-Ladensack and partner Benjamin Arnold-Ladensack were working to open a food truck when an explosion and subsequent fire injured Matt and food truck manager Jordan Glosser.  

“After my accident, life took a sudden turn, and in that time of uncertainty, I was faced with a choice -- to stay in the shadows of what was changed with my scars, or to rise, rebuild and dream again,” he said.  

Arnold-Ladensack said he is doing alright now, though areas of his skin are still in the healing process. He said he carried a positive mindset through the ordeal and told himself he was going to get through it. 

“The community was amazingly supportive of Ben and myself,” he said. “They assisted with helping with the horses, loading hay. They came out in droves and were amazing. 

“It really showed how unique Whitefish is and I feel like we have one of the most amazing communities in the U.S.,” he added. “It was really just something super special. I feel like everyone really rallies together and helps each other here.” 

During his recovery, he thought of bringing the creamery project to life and said working toward that goal was a healing experience. 

“I wanted to make it like a Phoenix-out-of-the-ashes story, in order to bring some joy to Whitefish,” Arnold-Ladensack said. “We're really excited to welcome people in so they can see this unique experience that we’re creating here.” 

Clydesdale Creamery closes at 8 p.m. for now, but it has plans to stay open later, for those who enjoy an evening coffee or treat. In the future, the shop will have a full liquor license, allowing them to offer boozy milkshakes and other alcohol-laced creations.

    Fun, rustic tent seating lines one wall of the Clydesdale Creamery on Baker Avenue. (Julie Engler/Whitefish Pilot)