16 Handles: A Frozen Yogurt Revolution
In the world of self-serve frozen yogurt, 16 Handles stands out as a pioneer and a beloved brand among dessert enthusiasts. Known for its wide array of flavors, extensive toppings bar, and interactive customer experience, 16 Handles revolutionized the frozen dessert industry. However, the story of this brand is deeply intertwined with its visionary founder, Solomon Choi. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore what makes 16 Handles unique, its offerings, customer experience, and the enduring legacy of its founder, Solomon Choi.
The 16 Handles Experience: A Customizable Dessert Revolution
When you step into a 16 Handles location, you’re greeted with a vibrant, modern atmosphere and a clear mission: to let customers take control of their dessert experience. The name ’16 Handles’ refers to the 16 rotating frozen yogurt flavors available on tap at any given time, allowing customers to explore a wide range of taste profiles.
Customers can customize their dessert with an extensive toppings bar, featuring fresh fruits, nuts, candies, and syrups. Whether you’re in the mood for classic flavors like Vanilla Bean and Chocolate or more adventurous options like Salted Caramel and Dulce de Leche, 16 Handles delivers variety and quality in every cup.
The self-serve model has been a game-changer, allowing customers to experiment with flavor combinations and topping choices. The pay-by-weight model provides flexibility but can sometimes lead to higher-than-expected bills for first-time visitors. However, frequent customers quickly learn to balance creativity with portion control.
The store ambiance contributes significantly to the experience. With bright decor, clear instructions for self-service, and a welcoming environment, 16 Handles creates an inviting space for customers of all ages.
Quality and Innovation in Every Cup
16 Handles takes pride in offering dairy-free, vegan, and gluten-free options, ensuring inclusivity for customers with dietary restrictions. Flavors made from oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk have become customer favorites, proving that plant-based alternatives can be just as indulgent as traditional options.
One of the most impressive aspects of 16 Handles is their commitment to flavor innovation. Seasonal flavors, limited-edition releases, and collaborations with well-known brands keep the menu fresh and exciting. The brand understands that customers crave novelty and are always on the lookout for new taste experiences.
The toppings bar remains a highlight of the 16 Handles experience, with options ranging from fresh strawberries and blueberries to gourmet drizzles like caramel and hot fudge. The toppings are consistently fresh, and the wide variety ensures there’s something for every palate.
In addition to frozen yogurt, 16 Handles has expanded its menu to include smoothies, shakes, and other frozen desserts, catering to a broader audience and ensuring year-round appeal.
Behind the scenes, 16 Handles prioritizes quality sourcing, ensuring that ingredients meet high standards. Their efforts to introduce compostable spoons and recyclable packaging materials also speak to their growing commitment to environmental sustainability.
The Rise of 16 Handles: A Visionary’s Dream
The success of 16 Handles is inseparable from the vision of its founder, Solomon Choi. Born in Seoul, South Korea, and educated at the University of Southern California, Choi identified a gap in the New York City dessert market and introduced a self-serve frozen yogurt concept in 2008.
Under his leadership, 16 Handles expanded to over 40 locations internationally, becoming a household name in urban hubs. His dedication to customer experience, innovation, and inclusivity set the foundation for the brand’s success.
Choi was more than just an entrepreneur—he was an innovator who understood consumer behavior deeply. By giving customers control over portion sizes, toppings, and flavors, he created an experience that felt both fun and empowering.
Choi also emphasized community engagement, with many locations participating in local events, fundraisers, and collaborations with nearby businesses. This focus on local involvement helped solidify the brand’s reputation as more than just a frozen yogurt shop.
The Transition of Leadership and Expansion
In 2022, Solomon Choi sold 16 Handles to Neil Hershman and YouTube personality Danny Duncan. Despite the change in leadership, the brand stayed true to its roots, with a focus on expansion, improved store design, and reduced startup costs for franchisees.
Today, under Hershman’s leadership, 16 Handles continues to grow, with new locations opening in states like Texas, Florida, South Carolina, and Arizona. The brand remains committed to delivering high-quality desserts and a memorable customer experience.
Hershman and his team have also placed emphasis on improving operational efficiency, streamlining supply chains, and introducing new technologies to enhance the customer experience.
The introduction of mobile apps and loyalty programs has further strengthened customer engagement. Regular promotions and exclusive offers have built a loyal customer base that keeps returning for more.
Franchisees also benefit from a robust support system, with training programs, marketing assistance, and supply chain optimization ensuring consistency across locations.
A Tribute to Solomon Choi
Tragically, Solomon Choi passed away on June 7, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and passion. Known for his optimism, mentorship, and entrepreneurial spirit, Choi’s influence continues to shape the brand he built.
Choi’s story isn’t just about building a successful business—it’s about resilience, creativity, and leaving a lasting impact. His dedication to creating moments of joy through dessert lives on in every 16 Handles store.
The legacy of Solomon Choi serves as a guiding light for the brand’s current and future leaders. His entrepreneurial spirit remains embedded in the core values of 16 Handles.
Final Thoughts: Why 16 Handles Stands Out
16 Handles isn’t just a dessert shop—it’s an experience. From the variety of flavors and toppings to the self-serve customization model and focus on inclusivity, the brand offers something for everyone. Under new leadership, 16 Handles continues to thrive while staying true to the vision Solomon Choi established.
For customers, 16 Handles represents more than just frozen yogurt—it’s a space for creativity, indulgence, and community. For franchisees, it’s a proven business model with a strong brand reputation and continued growth opportunities.
Whether you’re a frozen yogurt enthusiast or someone looking for a fun, interactive dessert outing, 16 Handles remains a standout choice.
In memory of Solomon Choi, the pioneer who redefined frozen yogurt culture—his legacy lives on, one handle at a time.
