Frozen Yogurt Without the Line

Frozen yogurt is making a comeback, and apparently, it’s the coolest dessert around again.

During a recent trip to New York City, one food writer discovered that frozen yogurt was suddenly everywhere. Major newspapers were covering its return, people were lining up for it, and some shops were charging premium prices.

At one popular Manhattan yogurt shop, a cup topped with strawberries, kiwi, raspberry drizzle, and toasted coconut cost $16. That’s a pretty expensive cup of yogurt!

But frozen yogurt has actually had several moments in the spotlight.

Back in the 1980s, it became popular as a healthier alternative to ice cream. Then, in the early 2000s, self-serve frozen yogurt shops took over, letting customers pile on everything from candy and cookie dough to fresh fruit and cereal.

Now, frozen yogurt is back with a modern twist. People are interested in its protein, probiotics, and potential digestive benefits. Some shops are even offering fancy toppings like pistachio drizzle, olive oil, and fennel pollen.

But while New York is rediscovering frozen yogurt, one Albuquerque business never stopped serving it.

Olo Dessert Studio, located in Nob Hill, has been serving frozen yogurt and sorbet since 2010.

The locally owned business was founded by tenth-generation New Mexican Paula Pope and is now operated by the Dominguez family, with Camilla Dominguez leading the way.

According to Dominguez, frozen yogurt never really went away.

Over the years, Olo has survived plenty of challenges, including the pandemic, construction along Central Avenue, and rising business expenses.

Through it all, the shop has continued adapting to what customers want, including more options for people avoiding dairy or gluten.

Manager Hannah Iracheta says one of the best things about Olo is that there’s something for just about everybody.

And they’re not kidding.

Customers can choose from frozen yogurt, fruit sorbets, creative toppings, and even drinks from a full-service espresso bar.

Some of the shop’s uniquely New Mexican flavors include Belen Biscochito, Capulin Cake Batter, Peñasco Pineapple, and Atomic Eggnog.

One popular combination includes tart frozen yogurt, watermelon sorbet, strawberries, kiwi, walnuts, mango popping pearls, and Tajín.

Speaking of popping pearls, those little fruit-filled toppings are among the shop’s biggest sellers. They come in mango and strawberry flavors, and customers can even purchase a cup of toppings without ordering yogurt.

Olo has also built a loyal following of regular customers. Some stop in for their favorite frozen yogurt combinations, others come for coffee or tea, and families enjoy having a place where everyone can find something they like.

Dominguez says the shop’s success comes down to its employees, its customers, and its connection to the community.

And while frozen yogurt might be the latest food trend in bigger cities, Olo isn’t interested in chasing every new craze. They’re focused on continuing to serve Albuquerque.

The shop is also looking forward to its annual hot chocolate bar during the Nob Hill Twinkle Light Parade on Saturday, December 5.

And if there’s a frozen yogurt flavor you’d love to see, the owners say they’re always open to suggestions.

So while people in New York might be standing in line for hours and spending $16 on frozen yogurt, Albuquerque residents have a locally owned option right in their backyard.

Olo Dessert Studio is located at 3339 Central Avenue NE, Suite C3, in Albuquerque.

For more information, call 505-750-4656.