Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour

My first nostalgia post is for an ice cream parlor that I remember going to for birthday parties when I was a kid. I was raised in Toledo, Ohio, and Franklin Park Mall had a Farrell’s attached to the outside of the mall. It was always a great time.

Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour was an American ice cream parlor and sandwich chain founded in Portland, Oregon, in 1963. The chain became defunct following the closure of its last location in Brea, California, in 2019.

Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour was started at NW 21st Avenue[1] in Portland, Oregon, by Bob Farrell and Ken McCarthy in 1963. Farrell’s became known for their offer of a free ice cream sundae to children on their birthday. The parlors had an early 1900s theme, with employees wearing period dress and straw boater hats, and each location featured a player piano.

In 1972, the Farrell’s chain was purchased by the Marriott Corporation. By 1975, there were 120 Farrells nationwide. (source)

Here is a Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour commercial from the 70’s

Here is their story