Whip 'n Dip Celebrates 40 Years of Sweet Success

Whip 'n Dip turns 40 with a July 4 bash, epic ice cream contest, family fun, and four generations of sweet, frozen tradition.

By Olee Fowler

July 4, 2025

Image: Whip 'n Dip celebrates 40 years over the Fourth of July weekend as one of Miami's most beloved ice cream shops

Whip 'n Dip celebrates 40 years over the Fourth of July weekend as one of Miami's most beloved ice cream shops Whip 'n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe photo

What happens on the ground matters — Your support makes it possible.

We’re aiming to raise $6,000 by August 10, so we can deepen our reporting on the critical stories unfolding right now: grassroots protests, immigration, politics and more.

Contribute Now

Progress to goal

$6,000

$1,400

Audio By Carbonatix

[
          {
            "name": "GPT - Billboard - Slot Inline - Content - Labeled - No Desktop",
            "component": "22004575",
            "insertPoint": "2",
            "requiredCountToDisplay": "2"
          },{
            "name": "STN Player - Float - Mobile Only ",
            "component": "22595215",
            "insertPoint": "2",
            "requiredCountToDisplay": "2"
          },{
            "name": "Editor Picks",
            "component": "17482312",
            "insertPoint": "4",
            "requiredCountToDisplay": "1"
          },{
            "name": "Inline Links",
            "component": "18711090",
            "insertPoint": "8th",
            "startingPoint": 8,
            "requiredCountToDisplay": "7",
            "maxInsertions": 25
          },{
            "name": "GPT - 2x Rectangles Desktop, Tower on Mobile - Labeled",
            "component": "23181625",
            "insertPoint": "8th",
            "startingPoint": 8,
            "requiredCountToDisplay": "7",
            "maxInsertions": 25
          
          },{
            "name": "Inline Links",
            "component": "18711090",
            "insertPoint": "8th",
            "startingPoint": 12,
            "requiredCountToDisplay": "11",
            "maxInsertions": 25
          },{
            "name": "GPT - Leaderboard to Tower - Slot Auto-select - Labeled",
            "component": "17720761",
            "insertPoint": "8th",
            "startingPoint": 12,
            "requiredCountToDisplay": "11",
            "maxInsertions": 25
          }
        ]

When George Giampetro Sr. opened Whip 'n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe on July 4, 1985, he probably didn't expect his retirement project would become a multigenerational obsession for South Miami families.

Forty years later, the family-owned shop is throwing the ultimate birthday bash to celebrate its anniversary.

click to enlarge

The "King of the Storm Challenge," where the last three "Category 9" champions battle for ultimate bragging rights.

Whip 'n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe photos

The King of the Storm Returns

The July 4th celebration kicks off at 11 a.m. with storewide discounts running until closing at 11:30 p.m. But the real action starts at 1 p.m., when Whip 'n Dip transforms into a carnival of frozen treats and family fun.

The crown jewel of the festivities? The "King of the Storm Challenge," where the last three "Category 9" champions battle for ultimate bragging rights.

For the uninitiated, the "CAT9" food-eating contest represents a rite of passage for graduating students: nine scoops of ice cream, nine toppings, hot fudge, and whipped cream. The Storm King winner gets a personalized plaque mounted above all others on the "CAT9" wall, plus a second plaque to take home.

That personal plaque becomes a golden ticket — bring it back every Fourth of July for free ice cream.

click to enlarge

Children eat ice cream outside of Whip 'n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe.

Whip 'n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe photo

Four Generations Strong

After retiring from a 25-year career as Director of Admissions at the University of Miami, Giampetro Sr. dedicated himself to "making the best ice cream possible." His philosophy was straightforward: "Meet the frozen dessert needs of the community's family. Provide top-quality products and services and create an upbeat, friendly, inviting atmosphere."

That mission statement still governs the shop today under his son, George Giampetro Jr. Four generations of the family have worked behind the counter. The commitment shows: All ice cream is made on premises daily in small batches, with the chef creating new and different flavors weekly.

click to enlarge

Whip 'n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe makes some of the best ice cream in Miami.

Whip 'n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe photo

More Than Just Ice Cream

The anniversary celebration includes face painting, balloon animals, high-tech selfie stations at the famous Whip 'n Dip Wall, and an Instagram raffle with eight prizes. The grand prize winner gets to create their own custom flavor that will be served at the store.

Beyond the party atmosphere, Whip 'n Dip has evolved with the times while maintaining its nostalgic charm. The shop now offers nine flavors of low-calorie soft serve and its own vegan ice cream line, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist in perfect harmony.

Whip 'n Dip Ice Cream Shoppe. 1407 Sunset Dr., Coral Gables; 305-665-2565; whipndip.com.

A fourth-generation Miamian, Olee Fowler knows every corner of the city. She spent a decade as the editor of Eater Miami, and now as a freelance writer, she captures the stories that make Miami unique. When she's not exploring Miami's newest restaurants and bars, you can find her at home with her dogs, Foster and Peanut, or cheering on her beloved Florida Gators. And yes, that's probably a Coke Zero on her desk.

A message from Food & Drink Editor Nicole Lopez-Alvar: If you value independent journalism, please consider making a contribution to support our continued coverage of Miami's evolving dining scene and the latest culinary innovations our community offers.

Support Today