Previously – see how the King of Pops went from AIG analyst to premium pop pusher

Ice pops are, well, popping up all around the US this summer. Suddenly, the coolest food item is also the trendiest.

Atlanta residents got their first hint of the impending wave during the chillier months of the year. At a busy intersection a mural appeared, depicting one large ice pop above the masses. Food blogs were a-twitter about the freezer treats Atlantans would be enjoying in the coming months.

Now, with local temperatures already reaching epic levels, not one, but two ice pop vendors are hawking their icy treats, delighting sweltering food fiends all over town.

The King of Pops - profiled above - rules the southern parts of the city. With his trademark umbrella cart and flavors like mango habanero, the King, holds court daily at a prominent intersection in a trendy neighborhood.

And now, he's got some competition for the throne. Fresco Pops, which can be found in northern neighborhoods, calls itself Atlanta’s Favorite Pop Shop and features local produce frozen into each single serving of frozen bliss. This mother-son team can be found every weekend at local farmers markets cooling down shoppers.

With a battle between two gourmet ice pop vendors, consumers in Atlanta needn't look far for their next icy fix. Has pop passion hit your town yet? Let us know in the comments below.

Previously - Summer of the 'Sicle