Icekimo Opens Near Academy
October 13, 2017
Photo Credit: Juliana Ferrie/Achona Online
Icekimo has caused excitement in Academy students due to its close proximity.
Icekimo, an ice-cream shop, recently opened within a strip mall on South Macdill Avenue, which is within walking distance of Academy. The shop is known for their rolled ice-cream, which has become a popular trend among students. In addition, Icekimo sells a variety of popsicle flavors.
Icekimo’s location is made better by not only their ice-cream, but also their cute decor.
Rolled ice-cream began in Southeast Asia, and has since spread throughout the United States. Rolled ice-cream is made using a an ice-cream base that is then combined with various ingredients. The base and ingredients are poured onto a cold surface, which causes it to freeze. From there, the ice-cream can be rolled.
Abby Mclachlan (‘21) said, “I like rolled ice-cream because it tastes good, and I think the way that it is made is really cool. It is interesting to watch the people make it.”
The ice-cream flavor “Mint to be” (pictured above) was named by Maria Almendares (’19).
Customers can choose between several different flavors of rolled ice-cream. For example, Icekimo offers unique flavors such as “The Monster,” which contains oreos and chocolate chip cookies. Rolled ice-cream can be purchased in either a cup or a taco. A “taco” is an edible wafer that is made by the employees. Customers can order their ice-cream within the taco. A cup of rolled ice-cream can be purchased for $6.99, and rolled ice-cream in a taco can be purchased for $6.40.
Although Icekimo currently offers a limited variety of flavors, they plan to expand their menu in the near future.
In addition to the various rolled ice-creams, customers are also able to purchase popsicles for $3.50 each. Icekimo offers flavors such as strawberry and lemonade popsicles.
Popsicles were accidentally invented in 1905 by a man named Frank Epperson.
Some Academy students have taken advantage of Icekimo’s close proximity, and have acquired jobs at the shop. For example, Morgan Tata (‘19), Maria Almendares (‘19), Dominique Deer (‘19), and Allie Golson (‘19) are all now employed at Icekimo.
Almendares said, “I like working at Icekimo because the environment is very friendly. My stepdad knows the owner, so I feel very at home there. I also love the aesthetic of the shop. Currently, I work Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.”
In addition, several Academy students are excited to finally get to try rolled ice-cream.
Sophia Montero (‘20) said, “I am excited about Icekimo because I didn’t know Tampa had an ice-cream shop that sold rolled ice-cream, especially one that is so close to Academy. I have never tried rolled ice-cream, but I am going to now that I know that the shop is so close.”
Almendares mentioned Icekimo’s plans for the future, which includes a potential “Taco Tuesday.” On “Taco Tuesdays,” Icekimo will offer special discounts on the rolled ice-cream bought in tacos.