**The Sweet Legacy of JENN and Larry’s Ice Cream Shoppe**
The story begins in 1967, when Larry and Gail’s Drive-In became a beloved roadside stop for locals and travelers alike. Nestled outside of Stratford on highway 8, with a growing reputation for its charm, Larry’s hand-spun milkshakes quickly gained legendairy status. The secret was simple; high-quality ingredients, a touch of nostalgia, and Larry’s meticulous care in crafting the perfect blend of flavours and textures. Among the Drive-In’s greatest hits was Larry’s signature Malt Milk Shake—a creamy, dreamy concoction that kept customers coming back.
From 1967 to 1974, Larry and Gail’s Drive-In was more than just a place to grab a bite; it was a community hub, where families gathered, young couples shared first dates, and road trippers discovered a taste of home. Larry & Gail young children, they made the decision to sell the drive in, leaving behind cherished memories and and legacy.
Fast forward a few decades, and that legacy found a new steward in Larry’s daughter, JENN. Creative and passionate, JENN had inherited her parents’ love for making people smile through food. She honed her skills in crafting delectable ice cream treats and developed a knack for peanut brittle that rivalled her father’s milkshakes in popularity. These talents became the foundation for a new chapter in the family’s story.
On September 3, 2010, JENN and Larry opened JENN and Larry’s Ice Cream Shoppe, a charming riverside spot at 49 York St., Stratford, ON. With Larry’s timeless recipes and JENN’s innovative twist, the shop quickly became a local treasure. Offering a menu that catered to dietary sensitivities, vegans, and traditional ice cream lovers alike, JENN and Larry’s set a new standard for inclusivity and flavour.
Their Malt Milk Shake earned the title of Ontario’s Best Milk Shake, and the shop itself was crowned **Stratford’s Favourite Ice Cream** and **Best of Ontario Ice Cream Parlour**. These accolades were a testament to the dedication and love poured into every twist and shake.
Open seasonally from March to October 30th, JENN and Larry’s has become a must-stop destination for anyone visiting Stratford. Whether you’re savouring their creamy ice cream on a sunny day, indulging in a nostalgic malt shake by the river, or appreciating the welcoming atmosphere, JENN and Larry’s captures the essence of Stratford’s charm.
From a roadside drive-in to a legend-dairy ice cream shoppe, the legacy of Larry’s hand-spun milkshakes lives on, proving that when passion and creativity meet, sweetness is bound to follow.
