Honeysuckle Gelato Starts Small, Going Big

Popular food truck and Midtown-based Honeysuckle Gelato could use your vote in a national contest that recognizes some of the country’s most talented and creative up-and-coming businesses.

DailyCandy’s “Start Small, Go Big" contest includes a wide scope of businesses including those in Fashion, Health & Beauty, Food & Drink, Home and Digital & Tech. Honeysuckle Gelato is one of three food finalists and the only one of 18 finalists from the state of Georgia.

Formed in 2011, Honeysuckle Gelato combines the rich and smooth texture of gelato with the decadent flavors and desserts of the South. It wholesales its gelato to restaurants and specialty markets, caters weddings and special events, and operate a food truck.

The three owners, two who grew up in Buckhead and attended North Atlanta High School, take great pride in making fun, creative flavors like Snacks on a Plane (biscoff gelato with peanuts and pretzels), Toasted Marshmallow and The Kang (their ode to Elvis - banana gelato with peanut butter caramel).

You can purcahse their creations by the pint at several locations, including the westside’s Toscano & Sons Italian Market, and by the scoop in numerous restaurants including Midtown’s Baraonda Ristorante & Bar and Publik. The Honeysuckle Gelato truck is also a popular staple at many neighborhood food truck events.

Said owner Khatara Ballard of the greatest challenge in growing a start-up, “Funding, of course! I know this is a challenge for all small business owners, but I am grateful for our "growing pains" in this area, because it really forced us to get creative and find new revenue streams. We now have our food truck, which helps pay the bills, but the ultimate goal is to be a much larger distribution company and to find regional and eventually national distribution options for our pints.”

The winner of each of the six contest categories won’t garner much cash, but will receive coveted publicity from DailyCandy in addition to one-on-one mentorship. But by voting, you just may win a prize, including a Jonathan Adler tote and $250 in DailyCandy Deals credit. Each day a new voter wins and daily voting is encouraged.

Voting began on Aug. 8 and concludes on Friday, Aug. 24. See here to vote for Honeysuckle Gelato or any of the finalists.

Have you had Honeysuckle Gelato? What’s your favorite flavor?