The Dolly Llama, a waffle and artisanal ice cream shop based out of Los Angeles, is coming to New York in March. Making its debut in the East Village on Saturday March 11, the shop will give a free swag bag of The Dolly Llama merch to the first 100 guests, and everyone in attendance will have the opportunity to enter giveaways and raffles throughout the day.

“Always on the hunt for new business opportunities, I stumbled across The Dolly Llama and it immediately piqued my interest due to the vibrant, fun branding of the unique concept,” says John Harper, franchisee of The Dolly Llama East Village. “The East Village neighborhood is an eclectic mix of incredible restaurants and an abundance of nightlife, basically offering something for everyone. The location is central to NYU, The New School, several other educational institutions, and New York tech offices, making it ideal for a concept like The Dolly Llama.”

“We are thrilled to bring The Dolly Llama desserts to a brand-new state and celebrate its grand opening with the East Village community!” says co-founder Eric Shomof.

The Dolly Llama currently operating seven locations in Los Angeles, Dallas, Jacksonville (Ponte Vedra Beach), Las Vegas and Orlando (Winter Garden), all sharing an aesthetic flair and Instagram-worthy designs featuring eye-catching signage, its iconic llama and “wanted” llama prints along the walls, which the franchised locations will also mirror. 50-store franchises plan to open across the country, with the next location in McAllen, Texas slated to open on March 4 and two locations in Houston, Texas (Shenandoah and Pearland) in later March 2023.

The brand prides itself on offering authentic European flavors and techniques, such as Belgian waffles using traditional methods, and the Hong Kong Bubble Waffle prepared with a special batter that produces a unique crispy and custard-like texture. The two unique waffle styles -- OG Liege Waffle, Bubble Waffle -- are the base of the interactive menu of ‘Top Picks’ waffle and ice cream desserts, ice cream waffle sandwiches, and a ‘Build Your Own’ menu, where customers are encouraged to “go nuts'” with unlimited toppings resulting in endless flavor possibilities and combinations. Signature Shakes are another over-the-top brand staple.