Founded by cousins Kim and Tyler Malek, Salt & Straw is now an eight-unit chain with locations in its hometown of Portland, Ore., and in Los Angeles.

Kim (right) leads the business behind the brand while Tyler (right) develops flavors as the head ice cream maker.

At Salt & Straw, the ice cream flavors change on a monthly basis, which attracts repeat customers.

Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper

Freckled Woodblock Chocolate

Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache

In addition to its signature flavors, Salt & Straw is making a name for itself through progressive labor policies. All of the company's employees — including part-time workers — qualify for health benefits and paid leave.

This model has resulted in a very low 12 percent turnover rate for in-store workers.

The chain is currently growing. It recently opened Wiz Bang Bar, a soft-serve ice cream outlet, in Portland's Pine Street Market and will be expanding the Salt & Straw brand to San Francisco in the spring.

For customers who can't visit its brick-and-mortar locations, Salt & Straw also ships hand-packed pints — priced at $9 — across the U.S.