16 Handles to Open First San Antonio Location, Bringing NYC Frozen Yogurt Concept to North Side
A rapidly expanding dessert concept with roots in New York City is making its way to San Antonio, adding another layer to the city’s growing mix of national brands and neighborhood-focused gathering spots.
Plans filed for a 16 Handles frozen yogurt shop in San Antonio outline a roughly 1,800-square-foot tenant finish-out at 22810 U.S. Highway 281 North, Suite 104, with construction expected to begin in April 2026. The project, valued at approximately $1 million, is slated for completion in late summer 2026.
For residents along the U.S. 281 corridor, the arrival of 16 Handles signals more than just another dessert option—it reflects continued commercial growth in one of San Antonio’s rapidly developing areas, where new retail and dining concepts are increasingly shaping everyday lifestyle convenience.
A New Dessert Option Near U.S. 281 in San Antonio
The upcoming shop will transform an existing retail shell into a modern, self-serve dessert destination. Known for its interactive format, 16 Handles allows customers to build their own frozen yogurt or ice cream creations, choosing from a rotating lineup of flavors and extensive toppings bar.
While each location serves about 16 flavors at a time, the brand maintains a much larger “flavor library” comprised of over 80 flavors, meaning selections will change regularly—giving repeat visitors something new to try with each visit.
That variety includes:
- Classic frozen yogurt staples like vanilla, chocolate, cookies & cream, and original tart
- Specialty flavors such as red velvet cake, dulce de leche, butter beer, and black matcha
- Fruit-forward sorbets like mango, watermelon, and strawberry lemonade
- Dairy-free and vegan options made with oat milk, almond milk, and other alternatives
For families, students, and nearby residents, the model offers flexibility—whether it’s a quick after-dinner treat, a weekend outing, or a customizable dessert stop that caters to different dietary needs.
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From East Village Startup to National Expansion
Founded in 2008 by Solomon Choi, 16 Handles began as New York City’s first self-serve frozen dessert shop, opening in Manhattan’s East Village with a focus on inclusivity and experience.
The brand has since grown into a recognizable name across the Northeast, with dozens of locations and a loyal following built around its customizable approach and wide-ranging menu.
In 2022, the company entered a new phase of growth when CEO Neil Hershman—formerly one of its largest franchisees—acquired the brand. Under his leadership, 16 Handles has been expanding beyond its East Coast footprint, targeting new markets like Texas.
That growth strategy is also supported by a strong emphasis on customer experience. Hershman is known for staying closely connected to operations, often working in stores himself to test ideas and refine the in-store experience.
Designed for Today’s Dessert Preferences
Part of what sets 16 Handles apart in the competitive frozen dessert space is its focus on inclusivity in menu design.
The brand promotes what it describes as “dessert for the people,” offering options for a wide range of dietary preferences—from traditional dairy-based frozen yogurt to vegan soft serve and fruit-based sorbets.
Most locations carry at least one vegan option at all times, alongside gluten-conscious toppings and “no sugar added” flavors like New York cheesecake.
As more families look for flexible dining options that accommodate different needs without sacrificing variety or quality, 16 Handles is set to be a hit with vegan and health-conscious customers.
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The Return of Frozen Yogurt: Why the Trend Is Swirling Back
Frozen yogurt is seeing renewed interest, but it looks different than it did a decade ago. Instead of relying on novelty, today’s concepts focus on customization, rotating flavors, and more inclusive menu options, including vegan soft serve and fruit-based sorbets.
After peaking in popularity in the early 2010s, frozen yogurt shops saw a slowdown as consumer tastes shifted. But in recent years, the category has evolved to meet new expectations. Today’s frozen yogurt experience is less about novelty and more about choice, customization, and better-for-you options—all areas where brands like 16 Handles are leaning in.
Many customers are now looking for desserts that feel lighter, offer more control over ingredients, and cater to a variety of dietary needs—all while still delivering on flavor and experience.
What Happens Next
Construction is expected to begin in April 2026, with a projected completion date of July 2026.
For now, residents can expect another dessert option on the horizon, one that brings a well-established East Coast brand into San Antonio’s evolving food scene.
Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for updates on this project and other new businesses opening across San Antonio.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.