By LANESSA MURPHY-SPAGNUOLO
News & Journal Staff Writer
For years now – forty-two years to be exact – the Dairy Kone ice cream parlor has been a popular eatery and gathering place in Monongah. It is here you can find delicious entrees and desserts and a welcoming atmosphere. Recently, though, the Dairy Kone has come under new management; an Enterprise couple purchased it on June 21 and along with the staff, are continuing the tradition of good food and hospitality.
Lloyd and Sandra Parrish decided to buy the ice cream parlor because as Sandra stated, “We were looking for a new adventure.”
Though the Parrishes are the new owners, they say not much has changed. They have kept many of the restaurant’s offerings the same as before. However, they have spiced up their menu with a few additional choices. Raspberry ice cream has made its way to the list of soft-serve flavors. And, a new sandwich can be enjoyed as well. The Monongah Monster Sandwich features a 10 oz. Italian sausage, Oliverio Peppers, and cheese on a huge bun – a mouth-watering combination!
“This kind of sandwich has always been a favorite of Lloyd’s. It was so big we thought the Monongah Monster would be a good name for it,” Sandra commented.
Other additions include a Hot Italian Sub, a Giovanni, and a brand new pizza recipe.
The full menu is still featuring its locally-famous hot dogs. The new owners are going to continue using the original sauce recipe that has been popular for many years.
Along with a variety of ice cream to choose from, the Dairy Kone has nearly 40 flavors of its version of DQ’s ‘Blizzard’ called the ‘Blitz’. Homemade Ice Cream Sandwiches are made and sold at the Dairy Kone as well.
The ‘Pick a Meal’ Combo is also still available to customers. The Pick a Meal comes with a sandwich (hot dogs, burgers, pepperoni roll, or hoagies), fries and a medium drink for a very low price.
In the future, the owners say they would like to add more options to the menu.
The Dairy Kone first opened its doors in 1968 and has been a huge part of the small town ever since. It is presently one of the only places in Monongah to grab a bite to eat! According to Lloyd, the restaurant has seen a total of three owners since its opening.
Though Lloyd and Sandra’s Enterprise home is just up the road a little piece, Lloyd was raised in Monongah and is happy to own a business in his former hometown.
“I am proud to be back in the community again. It’s good to be home,” remarked Lloyd.
The Dairy Kone will be open until mid-November, just before Thanksgiving, and will be closed for the winter months. It will reopen in March.
The restaurant is currently open daily, Monday – Saturday, 11:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Sundays from noon – 8:00 p.m. Customers may pick up their orders or dine in.
“Stop in for courteous service and good food,” Lloyd added.
The Dairy Kone is located at 654 Pike Street in Monongah.
