達人推薦
2024-07-09 Pop Icon 3D Ice Cream (Pop Icon ไอติม 3 มิติ) has taken Thailand by storm with its creative chibi-style Thai-themed designs! Tourists in Bangkok's Wat Arun, Chinatown, and Ayutthaya are eagerly buying these ice creams to take photos and share them on social media, sparking a new trend. Now, let's dive into this Thai craze!
Creative Chibi Landmarks + 3D Design
Ordinary popsicles are transformed into adorable chibi-style landmarks with a 3D effect. Launched last year, this innovation quickly became a sensation, setting a new trend in Thailand.
"We drew inspiration from our surroundings, turning traditional Thai landmarks into something fun, modern, and easy to appreciate," says Namtan, the founder of Pop Icon 3D. With a passion for tourism and a marketing background, she created this unique local brand featuring exclusive flavors and designs.
Chinatown's Shu De Tang Flagship Store
The main Pop Icon 3D store is located next to Wat Hui Keng in Chinatown, easily recognizable by its Chinese-Thai "Shu De Tang" sign. The small stand and two signboards feature the latest flavors launched in early 2024: Mango Sticky Rice (Dragon-shaped), Durian (Dragon-shaped), and Orange Pomegranate (Lion Dance-shaped), all priced at 89 THB each. These flavors are incredibly sweet and refreshing—definitely worth a try!
During Chinese New Year, special Matcha (Dragon-shaped) and Thai Milk Tea (Lion Dance-shaped) flavors were introduced, inspired by the hidden lion and dragon motifs in Chinatown. The Orange Pomegranate flavor pays tribute to fruit vendors.
Due to the hot weather, 3D popsicles melt quickly, so be quick when taking photos!
Wat Arun Exclusive 3D Popsicles
At Bangkok's Wat Arun, Pop Icon 3D offers exclusive Coconut Butterfly Pea and Thai Tea flavors. These can be purchased at ARUN CAFÉ by the river (open from 09:00 to 18:00).
These two flavors are inspired by the intricate ceramic tile patterns on Wat Arun's iconic pagoda. Thai Tea represents the temple’s Chinese influence, while Coconut Butterfly Pea reflects Thai culinary wisdom and the aroma of temple candles.
Part of the proceeds from Wat Arun popsicle sales supports temple facilities, including healthcare and education for monks.
Ayutthaya’s Wat Chaiwatthanaram Popsicles
Wat Chaiwatthanaram in Ayutthaya is a popular spot for tourists wearing traditional Thai outfits. Pop Icon 3D, in collaboration with a nearby café, offers exclusive Thai Tea, Mixed Grape Fruit, and Tamarind flavors—beautifully crafted with intricate designs. But let’s be honest, the real appeal is taking a photo in front of the temple with one!
Inspired by Love Destiny
Riding on the popularity of the Thai drama "Love Destiny" and its sequel, Pop Icon 3D launched the or-jao popsicles ("or-jao" being an old Thai term for "you," which became popular after the show). These popsicles feature a boy and girl dressed in traditional Thai attire, greeting in the "Sawasdee" pose.
Flavored with popular tropical fruits—Mango and Lychee—these are delicious, satisfying, and refreshing!
Hidden Blessings on Popsicle Sticks
Similar to fortune cookies, after finishing a Pop Icon 3D popsicle, a message of blessings or Buddhist wisdom is revealed on the stick.
"These popsicles serve as an engaging medium to attract interest," says founder Namtan. "They encourage people to explore these landmarks, appreciate the details, and learn more."
Pop Icon 3D Ice Cream
Address: 48, 48 Plaeng Nam Rd, Samphanthawong, Bangkok 10100
How to get there: Take the MRT to Wat Mangkon Station, then walk to Plaeng Nam Road.
