Ever languish over missing out on your seasonal Mister Softee fix or simply being unable to chase down the elusive truck?
You're in luck.
As demonstrated by its popular insignia already on display, Mister Softee has taken over the 195 Carleton Avenue in East Islip storefront previously in operation as Pam’s Ice Cream Shoppe, which closed on Jan. 14th.
Mr. Softee's deputies have been rocking and rolling within communities since 1956. When renovations on the uniquely vehicularly-uninvolved Mr. Softee are through, it will be Long Island’s first of its kind.
In lockstep with a recent tri-state-wide trend, the brick-and-mortar building of a classic Americana staple most known as an "on-wheels" business prior is expected to change the game on the local front.
Townsfolk raised as champions of summertime Mr. Softee are positively pumped to finally order their favorite dessert in the first week of March.
Lauren DiNapoli, 32, of East Islip, recalls visiting Pam’s once with her husband, and being disappointed by the “old and run-down" innards they witnessed. “I was literally like, ‘Why hasn’t this place shut down?”’
She is beyond excited for the Mister Softee store, which has opened just a short hop, skip and jump away from her home. “I think that it’s a great addition and a much-needed replacement."
Some are not as sold on the year-round enterprise just yet.
“No one contends with Coyle’s,” Anna Palumbo, 30, of Islip, declared with certitude. "Coldstone isn't bad either."
"Loyal Coyles” — allegiant regulars of the ice cream parlor situated directly next door to Bubba's Burrito Bar on Main Street in Bay Shore — are ready for war, their appetites for "Long Island Shakes" ever in tow.
Palumbo amended, “...unless you bring Kilwin’s” and their s’mores flavors she adores into the mix. “Only Babylon baby boys know about Kilwin’s.”
From small towns and big cities across the country and beyond, and within the hearts and minds of over half a century’s worth of customers, Mister Softee has never ceased to transcend. Just ask Martin Scorsese ("After Hours"), Larry David ("Curb Your Enthusiasm") or the late Bernie Mac ("Mr. 3000").
Rainbow-sprinkled cone: coming right up. Double dips out the wazoo? Don’t mind if I do. SpongeBob popsicles that actually resemble the Krusty Krab fry cook wonder himself, I’m ready I'm ready I'm ready. And the always delicious, "I stay the same, but the price keeps levitating" strawberry milkshake?
…check, please.
God bless their reign, and may they continue to dominate for years on end before they know we're heading to Coyle's tonight instead.