Sipping on an old-fashioned coke float is a great way to recall memories of one’s youth or to make new ones for today’s young ones. Either way, ice cream floats are only part of the yummy offerings at the newly opened Finest Grind Soda Fountain.
Already a fine place to enjoy great coffee and home-made breakfast and lunch, the ice cream and soda fountain is an added element of the Finest Grind Coffee House, tucked just off the road in the Sea Shores Plaza at 2961 Bienville Avenue in Ocean Springs.
Originally established and operated by the Finest Grind as the Lovelace Soda Fountain, the operation ended as part of the recent closure of Lovelace Drugs in downtown Ocean Springs. To their credit, Alan and Dori Triplett were determined to continue serving up the sweet treats that their daughter Kelley Triplett brought to life.
Asked why she and her parents decided to bring the fountain back, Kelley’s quick reply was, “Cuz its Good!” As Kelley sees it, the fountain gives her a creative outlet, as it does with the coffee served a few feet away.
Old fashion treats are served up to perfection and will soon include sodas in glass bottles! I, for one, prefer the taste of any ice-cold soda from a bottle, that brings back vivid memories of my youth. My grandmother loved Dr. Pepper in bottles, and a good poboy is best washed down with an icy Barq’s Root Beer.
The Finest Grind Soda Fountain will also continue to sponsor Ice Cream Socials monthly or so, themed for the younger crowds that can wander in between noon and 5 p.m. to quench their sweet tooth and coffee cravings and engage in their favorite games. Past themes included Magic and Dungeons & Dragons.
The first Ice Cream Social of this year, Nerd Night, is tentatively scheduled for Jan. 26. Unlimited toppings and specialty floats that flow from Kelley’s creative juices will be on tap. The games should be interesting!
So, gather the old and the young and head on out to the Finest Grind Soda Fountain for good ole-fashion ice cream and soda. Relive your memories and make new ones.