Mister Softee Finally Finds a Home: The Journey from Wheels to Walls
From the Streets to a Storefront: A New Chapter for Mister Softee
For decades, the jingle of Mister Softee’s iconic ice cream trucks has been synonymous with summertime joy, signaling to kids and adults alike that a cool treat was just a few steps away. However, as much as people adored the-meter-high soft serve cones and colorful trucks, there was always a sense of fleeting pleasure. The trucks were seasonal, and their speedy routes often left customers scrambling to catch them before they disappeared around the corner. Now, Mister Softee has officially parked its legacy in Long Island with the opening of its first-ever brick-and-mortar shop. This strategic move, spearheaded by franchise owner Jimmy Ilya, is not just a business expansion but a heartfelt response to the community’s enduring love for the brand.
Jimmy Ilya: The Man Behind the Ice Cream Dream
Jimmy Ilya’s journey with Mister Softee began over a decade ago, when he first started driving an ice cream truck in the Hamptons during the summer months. For 14 years, he brought smiles to countless faces, but he always envisioned something more. “I was always planning to open a store,” Ilya confessed, reflecting on his long-held ambition. The challenge, however, was the seasonal nature of the business. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the truck was in high demand, but the off-season left him without income, making it difficult to save and invest. Despite these obstacles, Ilya remained determined. “I tried to save money, save money—and it finally happened,” he said proudly. After years of perseverance, Ilya purchased the store in November 2024, setting the stage for a new era in Mister Softee’s history.
A Sweet New Beginning: The Store Opens Its Doors
On March 1, 2025, Mister Softee’s first-ever storefront officially opened its doors at 195 Carleton Avenue in East Islip. The location, formerly home to Pat’s Ice Cream Shoppe for 40 years, carries a legacy of its own, making it the perfect spot for this new chapter. Since its debut, the shop has been inundated with eager customers lining up around the block, all craving a taste of the iconic Mister Softee treats they’ve come to love. The response has been overwhelming, with Ilya describing the initial weeks as “really good” for business. The store offers more than just a physical space; it’s a destination where memories can be made year-round, rain or shine.
The Menu: A Blend of Classic and Creative
While Mister Softee is famously known for its soft-serve ice cream, creamy milkshakes, and indulgent sundaes, the new store takes the menu to the next level. Ilya has introduced 40 hard ice cream flavors, ranging from classic M&M’s and Italian caramel to unique options like RedBull. This diverse offering ensures there’s something for everyone, from traditionalists who swear by Mister Softee’s signature soft serve to adventurous eaters eager to try something new. The addition of hard ice cream not only expands the menu but also allows the brand to cater to evolving tastes while staying true to its roots. “We are really happy, and business has been so good,” Ilya remarked, attributing much of the shop’s success to the variety of options available.
More Than Ice Cream: A Community’s Joy
For Ilya, the shop is more than just a business—it’s a labor of love. “My goal is to make people happy,” he said, his passion evident in every word. The impact of the shop is undeniable, especially on the children who flock to the store. “When they see ice cream, they start laughing and they just love it,” Ilya shared, recalling the countless smiles he’s witnessed since the grand opening. The shop has quickly become a gathering place for families, friends, and neighbors, fostering a sense of community that goes beyond mere transactions. For Ilya, seeing his customers’ joy is the ultimate reward, reinforcing why he loves this business so much.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Mister Softee
The opening of the East Islip store marks a significant milestone for Mister Softee, but it’s just the beginning. Ilya’s success serves as a testament to the power of determination and innovation in a beloved brand. As the shop continues to thrive, it opens the door to new possibilities, from potential expansion to further menu creativity. For now, though, the focus remains on what truly matters: bringing happiness to the community, one scoop at a time. Mister Softee’s journey from a moving truck to a stationary store is a story of evolution, heart, and the timeless magic of ice cream.
