Check out this big local food news, just released exclusively to The Food Guy!
Inspired by her love for “really great ice cream,” determined entrepreneur Ellen Beal opened Ellen’s Homemade Ice Cream at its Capitol Street location in September 1997. This iconic ice cream, lunch and coffee shop has become a staple in downtown Charleston over the years, and a favorite stop for young and old alike.
Ellen’s, which has been voted the best ice cream in the state multiple times in the annual West Virginia Living magazine “Best of West Virginia” contest, can also be found outdoors at Capitol Market from May-September, at several retail locations including Tamarack and Drug Emporium, and at local restaurants.
Being a successful business operator is not a simple task, yet Ellen has made the mission look easy. Over the years, she mas mentored a multitude of young go-getters, teaching them techniques, responsibility and accountability.
She has been a great supporter of community events, too, one of her favorites being Symphony Sunday. Although she no longer performs with the West Virginia Symphony Orchestra, her love for music has not subsided.
When Ellen decided it was time to retire, she knew she had to choose the perfect individuals to seamlessly carry on Ellen’s Ice Cream just as she would. She had watched the owners of 1010 Bridge Restaurant and Catering build a stable, successful and nurturing environment for their team and decided the trio of owners there would be the perfect fit.
The agreement has been signed and Ellen will continue to work with Chef Paul Smith and owners Aaron and Marie Clark for the next several months to ensure a smooth and efficient transition. Rest assured, West Virginia, Ellen’s will continue for years to come.
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Steven Keith is a food writer and restaurant critic known as “The Food Guy” who writes a weekly column for the Charleston Gazette-Mail and has appeared in several state, regional and national culinary publications. Follow him online at www.wvfoodguy.com or on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. He can be reached at 304-380-6096 or at wvfoodguy@aol.com.
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