Farrell's Ice Cream Parlours Launch Franchise Program

The Orange County-based parent company of Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour Restaurants announced today it will begin franchising the eateries in selected markets throughout the country.

Ben Kramer, vice president of franchising for Parlour Enterprises Inc. said it’s time to bring the concept outside California, and maybe go international.

“We are finally ready to launch our company with the help of experienced and successful multi-unit operators who want to add a brand that attracts families and anyone looking for a great place to celebrate a life event,” Kramer said.

The 1890’s ice cream parlour-themed restaurant chain known for its signature Zoo Sundae and Pig’s Trough Sundae was founded by Robert “Bob” Farrell in Portland, Oregon, in 1963. The Marriott Corp. bought the company, which eventually grew to 130-plus locations nationwide before being sold in 1982 to an investment group that changed the concept.

By 1990, all the locations had closed. Lake Forest-based Parlour Enterprises brought back the concept in 2009 and currently operates six restaurants in Southern California and one in Sacramento.

--City News Service

PHOTO Farrell’s in Mission Viejo. Patch file photo.