Made in New Jersey: Fourth generation joins Nasto’s Ice Cream legacy in New Jersey
The company, now led by Frank Nasto III, produces hundreds of thousands of gallons of ice cream each year and supplies about a thousand restaurants.
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Family and ice cream are at the heart of Nasto’s, a nearly 90-year-old business in Newark that’s become a New Jersey staple.
The company, now led by Frank Nasto III, produces hundreds of thousands of gallons of ice cream each year and supplies about a thousand restaurants.
“Nasto’s is so Newark, it’s got its own street,” Nasto said, noting the company’s deep roots in the Ironbound and beyond.
The business started with his grandfather selling lemon ice and has grown into a multigenerational operation known for frozen treats like tartufo and evolving flavors like avocado and vegan options.
“You always have to evolve,” Nasto said. “We started off as Italian specialties, but every year we’re putting on Latin flavors, fruit flavors.”
Despite rising costs — especially cocoa — Nasto said he refuses to cut corners. “If I have to raise the price a few pennies, I will, but I’m not gonna skimp on the chocolate.”
Now, a fourth generation is stepping in. Nasto’s daughters are preparing to open a new shop in Woodbridge.
“I tried to instill my passion into them,” he said. “And they’re going to take it and go.”
