The Lemon Ice King Of Corona: NYC's Ice Cream Gem
What evokes a sense of nostalgia, refreshment, and pure, unadulterated joy on a scorching summer day? The answer, for many New Yorkers, is undoubtedly a visit to The Lemon Ice King of Corona, a true institution that has stood the test of time and continues to deliver frozen perfection.
Nestled in the heart of Corona, Queens, this Italian ice shop is more than just a place to cool down; it's a community hub, a testament to family tradition, and a symbol of enduring quality. From the moment you step up to the counter, you are transported back in time, to an era where simple pleasures reigned supreme and the taste of a perfectly crafted Italian ice was the ultimate indulgence. The Lemon Ice King of Corona is not just a business; it's a legacy, a family's dedication to the art of frosty alchemy, and a cornerstone of the neighborhood's identity.
The story of The Lemon Ice King of Corona begins in 1944, when Nicola Benfaremo, an Italian immigrant, began selling Italian ice from his garage in Corona, Queens. This was a time of post-war optimism, of new beginnings and the pursuit of the American Dream. Nicola, with his entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for sharing a taste of his homeland, saw an opportunity to bring a slice of Italy to his new community. Little did he know that his humble garage venture would blossom into a beloved local landmark, celebrated by generations of New Yorkers and beyond.
After his son, Peter Benfaremo, returned from serving in World War II, the business truly took shape. Together, father and son perfected their recipes, building on the foundation of Nicola's original vision. The Benfaremo dynasty, masters of frosty alchemy, understood that the key to success lay not only in the quality of their ingredients but also in the unwavering commitment to their craft. The Italian ices they created were a world apart, a frozen masterpiece, superior to ice cream on sweltering summer days, or any day, really. And so, The Lemon Ice King of Corona was born, and its reign as the undisputed king of Italian ice began.
The shop quickly became a local favorite, drawing in crowds of eager customers who were captivated by the refreshing flavors and the welcoming atmosphere. The simplicity of the menu a carefully curated selection of classic Italian ice flavors was a deliberate choice, focusing on quality over quantity. The Benfaremo's understood that the best ingredients, prepared with care and precision, would speak for themselves. The shop's reputation grew, word of mouth spread like wildfire, and The Lemon Ice King of Corona became a neighborhood institution. The fact that it is such a neighborhood institution, you can spot it in the opening credits of King of Queens, alongside landmarksshow more expand_more.
The enduring success of The Lemon Ice King of Corona lies in its commitment to tradition. While the world around it has changed dramatically over the decades, the shop has steadfastly maintained its original style and even its menu. This unwavering dedication to the past is a key element of its charm. Stepping into The Lemon Ice King is like taking a trip back in time, to an era when things were simpler, and the focus was on quality and connection. It's this authenticity that has cemented its place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Today, the legacy of Nicola Benfaremo continues. The shop is still a family-run operation, a testament to the enduring power of family values and the importance of preserving tradition. The current generation of Benfaremos has embraced the responsibility of carrying on their family's legacy. They ensure that every batch of Italian ice is made with the same care and attention to detail that has defined the business since its inception. This dedication to quality has earned them a devoted following and a place in the hearts of the community. Great family service, this place is a community stable. It has been a staple of this neighborhood for so long.
The flavors at The Lemon Ice King of Corona are a testament to the shop's unwavering commitment to freshness and quality. From the classic lemon and cherry to the more adventurous fruit cocktail and pistachio, each flavor is a celebration of natural ingredients. The ice here tastes more on the natural side. It's not overloaded with sugar, syrup, and artificial flavoring like marino's italian ice and ices from those street vendors or pizzerias. The fruits are carefully selected, the recipes are time-tested, and the result is an Italian ice that is both intensely flavorful and remarkably refreshing. The shop also offers a couple of sugar-free options, catering to a wider range of tastes and dietary needs. Many flavors and a couple sugar free ones too.
The shop's location, at 52nd Avenue, Corona Avenue, and 108th Street, is another part of its enduring appeal. Situated in the heart of Corona, the shop is easily accessible to locals and visitors. The shop attracts international tourists due to having been featured in the opening credits of the tv show the king of queens. It's also conveniently located near Corona Park, making it the perfect destination for a post-park treat. A small bite of delicious cold ice on a hot summer day after spending time in the park can definitely hit the spot. If you are on a date, this would be the perfect i know a spot snack spot to impress your date. Though parking can be a challenge, the effort is well worth it. Parking is hard to come by but don't be an afraid to do like the locals and double it up!
The Lemon Ice King of Corona is more than just a business; it's an integral part of the fabric of its neighborhood. It has been a fixture in the neighborhood for so long. It's a place where generations have gathered, where memories are made, and where the simple joy of a perfect Italian ice is celebrated. Whether you're a longtime resident, a first-time visitor, or somewhere in between, The Lemon Ice King of Corona offers a taste of history, a touch of magic, and a sweet reminder of the enduring power of tradition.
The Lemon Ice King of Corona easily beats ralph's and louie g's. Best ices in queens for dang sure! The lemon ice king of corona isn't just one of the oldest establishments in nyc, it's also among the most famous in queens. Their storied history began over 80 years ago and has become a fixture in the neighborhood. Italian ices are their fort; which is something to look forward to practically time of the year.
What's better than a neighborhood Italian ice on a hot summer day? Had the lemon lime and strawberry banana. And one shop credited with bringing this frozen, fruity treat to New York is The Lemon Ice King of Corona. Another, if you happen to be coming from the other direction, is the lemon ice king of corona, one of the city's most irreplaceable destinations for frozen desserts. The lemon ice king of corona patrick blessinger in new york city, find your solace at the lemon ice king.
Whether you're a regular or a first-time visitor, The Lemon Ice King of Corona is a must-visit destination. It is a place where you can find solace and enjoy a refreshing treat, surrounded by the charm and character of a true neighborhood institution. It is a place that stays true to its roots, offering a taste of history and a slice of frozen paradise that will keep you coming back for more. Founded in 1944 by peter benfaremo, it is a neighborhood point of interest.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Shop Name | The Lemon Ice King of Corona |
| Location | Corona, Queens, New York City |
| Address | 52nd Avenue, Corona Avenue, and 108th Street |
| Founded | 1944 |
| Founder | Nicola Benfaremo |
| Key Person | Peter Benfaremo (Son of Nicola) |
| Specialty | Italian Ice |
| Noteworthy Fact | Featured in the opening credits of "The King of Queens" |
| Ambiance | Community-focused, Nostalgic, Family-friendly |
| Operating Status | Open |
| Popular Flavors | Lemon, Cherry, Fruit Cocktail, Pistachio, Strawberry Banana |
| Unique Feature | Maintained original style and menu for over 80 years |
| Community Impact | A neighborhood institution, a gathering place for generations. |
| Known for | High-quality ingredients, Family tradition, Authentic taste. |
| Reference Website | Allmenus.com |
