OUR STORY

Back in 2016, life took an unexpected turn for our family. What first felt like an obstacle became an opportunity to build something of our own. As parents of two children living in southeast Calgary, we were always looking for quality dessert places where families could spend time together. We quickly realized there wasn't anything quite like that in our community, so we decided to build the kind of place we wished existed.

Not just an ice cream and waffle shop. A place where kids would celebrate the last day of school, grandparents would spoil their grandkids, friends would meet after soccer practice and families would create memories they’d remember for years to come. These are the moments we hope to be part of.

In March 2018, XO Ice Cream & Waffles opened its doors in Auburn Bay. From day one, we committed ourselves to doing things the right way. Our ice cream is handcrafted in-house in small batches. Our waffles are made from a cherished family recipe and baked fresh to order. We believe the extra care is something you can taste.

Today, XO is still family-owned and every decision we make comes back to the same belief that inspired us from the very beginning: ice cream and waffles aren’t just dessert. They’re an excuse to spend time together.

Thank you for letting us be part of your traditions.

Darren & Melanie

A young boy and girl are sharing a large ice cream cone together, with their foreheads touching and eyes closed, outdoors on a summer day.

Why we started XO

The meaning behind our name

Ever wondered what the name XO means? We chose it because it captures both what we make and why we make it. The X represents our fresh waffles, the O our handcrafted ice cream, and together they symbolize hugs and kisses — the simple moments of love, connection and sweet memories that inspired us to open our doors.