Florida’s Hampton Chocolate Factory Is The Ice Cream Shop With Cones Bigger Than Your Head
If you think Florida has seen it all when it comes to ice cream, think again. At Hampton Chocolate Factory, the cones are so enormous they almost need their own seat at the table.
Locals can’t stop raving about these towering treats that combine rich, creamy ice cream with playful, oversized fun.
One visit here turns a simple dessert run into a full-blown sweet adventure you won’t soon forget.
1. Brother Duo Behind the Magic
Austin and Grant Gappelberg aren’t just siblings – they’re co-CEOs with a sweet vision.
The entrepreneurial brothers transformed their love for decadent desserts into a thriving business empire that’s capturing hearts one giant scoop at a time.
Their complementary skills have proven to be the perfect recipe for success.
While one handles the creative direction, the other manages the business operations, creating a balanced partnership that keeps Hampton Chocolate Factory growing.
2. Prime Location and Hours for Sweet Tooths
Found at 615 Channelside Drive, this dessert haven sits in the heart of Tampa’s entertainment district.
Convenient hours make satisfying your sweet cravings possible almost any time – 11 AM to 10 PM Sunday through Thursday, with extended hours until midnight on weekends.
The prime location means you can easily cap off dinner or a day of sightseeing with their famous oversized treats. Weekend nights see the biggest crowds as dessert lovers flock to end their evenings on a sweet note.
3. Tampa’s Sweetest Destination
The flagship store at Sparkman Wharf opened its doors in 2022, quickly becoming Tampa’s go-to spot for extraordinary desserts.
Located in the bustling waterfront district, the shop’s strategic position attracts both locals and tourists seeking Instagram-worthy treats.
With its vibrant exterior and irresistible aromas wafting through the air, it’s impossible to walk by without stopping.
The waterfront location adds an extra touch of magic to the already enchanting dessert experience.
4. Social Media Sensation
Talk about viral success! Hampton Chocolate Factory has amassed a staggering 755,000 Instagram followers who can’t get enough of their photogenic creations.
Their feed showcases mountains of ice cream, chocolate drizzles in slow motion, and satisfied customers attempting to tackle those famous giant cones.
Clever hashtags and customer reposts have fueled their social media growth.
The shop encourages visitors to share their experience, creating a snowball effect that continues to expand their online presence and draw new customers to their door.
5. Famous Hot Chocolate That Breaks the Internet
One sip of their legendary hot chocolate explains why videos of this drink consistently go viral. Thick, velvety chocolate gets topped with a tower of whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and various toppings that change with the seasons.
The presentation is pure theater – servers pour molten chocolate over a chocolate sphere that melts dramatically to reveal hidden treasures inside.
Customers record this moment religiously, generating millions of views across TikTok and Instagram that keep new visitors flowing through their doors.
6. Menu Beyond Just Ice Cream
While giant ice cream cones put them on the map, Hampton Chocolate Factory offers an entire universe of sweetness.
Their authentic Liege Belgian waffles provide the perfect base for ice cream mountains, while “Frozzzen” s’mores deliver campfire flavors with an upscale twist.
Layered shakes in towering glasses challenge gravity with their toppings.
The soft-serve station allows for endless customization, and don’t overlook their artisan chocolates – handcrafted with premium ingredients and available in creative flavor combinations that change seasonally.
7. Nationwide Shipping for Chocolate Lovers
Can’t make it to Florida? Hampton Chocolate Factory ships their gourmet confections nationwide.
Their signature sea-salt caramel truffles arrive perfectly intact thanks to specialized insulated packaging that maintains optimal chocolate temperatures.
Gift boxes are particularly popular during holidays, featuring seasonal specialties alongside year-round favorites.
Corporate gifting has become a significant part of their business, with customized packages bearing company logos on chocolate bars that make memorable impressions on clients and employees alike.