Breaking the Ice: 100 years of history and flavor at DiCosmo’s Italian Ice BY TYLER BROWN
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n 1915, the culinary roots of DiCosmo’s Italian Ice were officially planted in the city of Elizabeth. Humbly nestled on the corner of a neighborhood intersection, the small-yet-vibrant shop has remained a staple of the community for over a century. Evidenced by the nearby street sign that reads “DiCosmo Place & 104 Years,” the shop has amassed a loyal following and established a reputation for its world-class flavors and freshness. Now, four generations and 107 years later, the well-known establishment has broken ground at a new location in Metuchen. Located at 25 New St., the recently established storefront is reminiscent of its predecessor in its approach to customer service and quality. With a family-friendly atmosphere and a renowned menu, DiCosmo’s is seeking to establish itself as the borough’s “go-to” spot for Italian Ice. Eileen and Mike O’Conner, the owners of DiCosmo’s and residents of Metuchen, opened their second location in 2021. After careful consideration, the decision to open was attributed to timing and opportunity. However, with a family to raise, Eileen explained that her children took precedent over the possibility of starting a new business venture. Yet, that didn’t stop her from contemplating store layouts and researching retail designs. For a decade, she kept those creative business ideas on file as a “What if?” Furthermore, after years spent in corporate sales and education, she discovered that her true passion was her family’s business. Plus, her affinity for the food industry and degree in food marketing further solidified her decision to pursue her passion and establish a new DiCosmo’s. The community-oriented legacy that her parents cultivated at DiCosmo’s left a vivid impression on Eileen. When assisting at her parent’s original shop, she referred to the overjoyed comments made by satisfied customers as the “spark” she needed. “I noted how happy their customers were to enjoy the amazing Italian Ice and that they would comment that ‘no one makes it like DiCosmo’s.’ It was then that the spark was lit, and I knew that our product is something really special and truly unique,” she said. please see BITES, page 13 SUMMER 2022
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