Marianne’s Ice Cream is coming to Seacliff!
The favorite of generations, Marianne’s Ice Cream is coming to Aptos! The owners of Marianne’s Ice Cream whose only location until now has been on Ocean Blvd in Santa Cruz will have a second address, 218 State Park Drive in Seacliff, on the corner of Center Avenue and State Park Drive.
Marianne’s owners, Charlie Wilcox and Kelly Dillon as of March 1 took over operation of the Seacliff Center Market from owner Dan Holdren. Wilcox and Dillon bought Marianne’s from longtime owners Sam and Dorothy Lieberman in late 2012. According to Wilcox they has discussed the idea of a second location before Sam died at the age of 84 late in November. Dorothy attended the hand-off Monday wearing Sam’s trademark suspenders and straw fedora.
Holdren, 62, said he called Marianne’s this last December to let the owners know the property was available. Coincidently according to Holdren, both buildings, Marianne’s and Seacliff Center Market, were constructed in the same year, 1947.
The new owners plan not only sell their famous ice cream but also other items that those visiting the area might need such as snacks and soft drinks. Wilcox said they indeed had heard the plea from local residents for coffee and some bakery goods and will be offering those also.
Before they can open as Marianne’s they need to improve the plumbing and wiring as well as install freezers, counters, a dishwasher and pass inspection by the county. The new Marianne’s building will retain the iconic red color of the original location. It will also be a boon for the local workforce as Wilcox said they would need two full time and seven to eight part time employees.
The location is ideal due to its proximity to the entrance to Seacliff State Beach, and being close to New Brighton State Beach, both popular destinations for visitors and vacationers.
When asked about the popularity of Marianne’s ice cream, Wilcox said that their 2-year-old plant is on the West Side of Santa Cruz and they distribute it in the county and as far away as San Jose. Happily, Marianne’s is now coming to Aptos.
Welcome to the neighborhood!
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Marianne’s Ice Cream was founded in 1947, and is named for sisters Mary and Annie Becker. The original Marianne’s is located at 1020 Ocean St., Santa Cruz. Phone:(831) 458-1447. Hours: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm