A Chantilly-based dessert store is expanding its offerings with the launch of a new battery-powered gelato cart that it hopes to operate at weddings, corporate gatherings, and other events.
SoftSpot, which opened at 13905A Metrotech Drive in early 2025, will churn its fresh Italian-style gelato in front of guests in the self-contained cart — without the need for outlets or cords.
The dessert spot has been working on the concept and testing out how it would perform at live events for the past several months, SoftSpot partner Neal Miglani told FFXnow.
“The idea really came from wanting to make dessert catering more interactive,” Miglani said. “We do a lot of events through SoftSpot, and most dessert carts are essentially just a serving station. We thought it would be much more memorable if guests could actually watch their gelato being churned fresh right in front of them.
“Finding a battery-powered setup also meant we could bring that experience to places where a traditional machine wouldn’t really be practical,” he added. That includes areas such as rooftop events, or tight spaces where it might otherwise be impractical to run traditional equipment.
Each event can include up to two gelato flavors, either from SoftSpot’s existing creations or developed specifically for their event. For weddings, SoftSpot can create flavors inspired by the couple; for corporate events, it can create custom flavors, names and branded cart decals.
The company says that some of the previous creations it’s whipped up include flavors such as Cookie Monster, Stracciatella, Matcha White Chocolate, Black Sesame, Lavender Honey, and Espresso Oreo.
The cart runs for four to six hours. Party packages are available throughout the D.C. metro area and start at $950 for up to 50 guests; travel fees are included for areas outside of Chantilly, Herndon, Reston or Fairfax.
Add-on packages including a dirty soda bar, fresh-pressed lemonade and warm MOLTN Cookies from SoftSpot’s sister brand are also available.
The cart itself is fully staffed, not self-serve.
“A member of our team stays with the cart throughout the event and makes and serves the gelato for guests,” Miglani said. “That live interaction is a big part of the experience.”
