Owners of Zavaroni’s ice cream announced on social media the historic brand will stop producing with remaining stock being sold at nearby Jimmy Snacks.
Serving ice cream in Rothesay since 1920 and situated on the sea front, visiting Zavaroni’s for a 99, double nougat or top hat was considered “a must” for tourists and locals alike.
“Due to unforeseen circumstances we have decided to close until further notice. I thank each and every customer who has stuck by us since the cafe closed,” the notice to customers reads.
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“Jimmy Snacks will carry and sell the remaining stock until supplies run out, probably around one week from now. I thank each and every customer who has been with us for so many years We couldn’t have done it without you.”
The family later added that the closure was due to a “deteriorating” heart condition.
The shop front previously closed with ice cream being sold at several outlets across the island.
The brand is owned by relatives of Lena Zavaroni, the youngest person ever to have had an album in the top 10, at 10-years-old. As a result of anorexia nervosa, she sadly died in 1999 at the age of 35. Her grandfather Alfredo had been an Italian immigrant and the family went on to open several shopfronts on the island, including a fish and chips shop which remains today.
Rothesay became a popular tourist destination in the Victorian era, going into the 20th century.
Holidaymakers at Rothesay beach (Image: Unknown)
The ice cream store used the same machine to create the “world-famous” product for 60 years until it broke down in 2022.
Customers were quick to react to the news, writing: “So sad – a Rothesay institution and the best tasting ice cream ever. Will miss you. Thank you for the generations of hard work.”
One added: “So sorry for your predicament and wishing you all the best for your future. You are bowing out while you are the best.”
Another said: “What a sad time. Zavaroni’s ice cream is the best ever and such a part of Rothesay”.