It’s no secret that New Jerseyans love their ice cream. A recent study by Talker Research named New Jersey the top state for ice cream connoisseurs. There’s no shortage of great spots across the Garden State, but not many come with the kind of history you’ll find at Leo’s Yum Yum.
Giovanni Leo, who came to the U.S. from Corato, Italy, started Leo’s Manufacturing Company in 1936. He crafted his famous Yum Yum in Camden, New Jersey, and began distributing it to vendors across South Jersey.
Yum Yum is similar to water ice, except it’s creamier and smoother. This one-of-a-kind treat can only be found at Leo’s. I recommend ordering it as a gelati, which layers Yum Yum with soft serve for a seriously tasty combo. I went with banana and chocolate soft serve, a timeless pairing. They make all their flavors fresh, so you won’t find any artificial taste here.
Outside of Yum Yum, there are plenty of homemade options to savor, including ice cream, sorbet, and gelato. For those who are dairy-free, try the Cocomero, a light and hydrating watermelon sorbet loaded with mini chocolate chips for a sweet crunch and served with a buttery pizelle cookie. You really can’t go wrong with any of their ice cream flavors, whether it’s a classic like mint chocolate chip or something fun like the Elvis Brownie, which blends a banana base with creamy peanut butter swirl and chewy brownie bits. They even offer unique flavors you won’t find anywhere else in Jersey, like Sicilian Pistachio, made with top-notch ingredients imported straight from Italy.
Leo’s has locations in Medford, Tabernacle, and Atco. I’ve been going to the Medford spot since I was a kid, and there’s a comforting sense of nostalgia knowing the 50s decor hasn’t changed and all my favorite flavors are still on the menu. The walls are packed with 1950s memorabilia, including record players, movie posters, and, of course, the King of Rock and Roll himself, Elvis Presley.
With its rich history and unforgettable flavors, Leo’s reminds us that in New Jersey, there’s always room for dessert. So get your ice cream stomach ready to enjoy all that Leo’s Yum Yum has to offer. Stop in and experience the legacy of this South Jersey staple.
*Leo’s Yum Yum is a cash-only establishment.
Photos are by Courtney Dunn and should not be used without permission.
