Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour, a beloved American chain, was founded in 1963 in Portland, Oregon, by Bob Farrell and Ken McCarthy. Known for its extravagant sundaes, like the 30-scoop Zoo, and a lively 1900s-themed atmosphere, it became a cultural icon. Its red booths, straw-hatted staff, and player pianos created a nostalgic vibe that drew families for decades.
The chain peaked with 120 locations by 1975 but faced closures in the 1980s due to economic challenges and changing tastes. Revival attempts in the 2000s brought new locations, but many struggled to stay open. Today, fans are eager to know if Farrell’s still serves its famous treats.
This article explores whether Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour is still open, diving into its history, menu highlights, and recent customer experiences. We’ll examine its current status, nostalgic appeal, and what made it special. Let’s scoop into the story of this iconic dessert destination.
The History of Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour
Farrell’s began as a single parlor in Portland, offering free sundaes for kids’ birthdays. Its early 1900s theme, complete with boater hats and ragtime music, was an instant hit. By 1972, Marriott Corporation acquired the chain, expanding it to 120 locations.
In the 1980s, sales declined, and Marriott sold the chain to private investors. By 1990, most locations closed, leaving a few independent parlors. The brand’s nostalgic charm kept it alive in customers’ memories.
A 2008 revival by Parlour Enterprises reopened locations in California and Hawaii. Despite efforts, including a 2016 feature on CNBC’s The Profit, the chain faced challenges. The last known location in Brea, California, closed in 2019.
What Made Farrell’s Special
Farrell’s was famous for its over-the-top sundaes, like the Pig’s Trough and The Zoo. These massive desserts, served with fanfare, were perfect for celebrations. Customers loved the theatrical experience, complete with singing staff.
The menu included classic American fare like burgers, hot dogs, and fries. Ice cream flavors ranged from vanilla to rocky road, served in cones, shakes, or sundaes. The kid-friendly vibe and free birthday treats drew families.
The retro decor, with red booths and vintage photos, created a unique atmosphere. Reviewers often praised the fun, lively environment. Farrell’s was more than a parlor—it was a destination for memories.
Is Farrell’s Ice Cream Still Open: The Current Status
As of September 2025, Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour is no longer open. The last location in Brea, California, closed in 2019, marking the end of the chain’s revival efforts. Economic challenges, high operating costs, and shifting consumer preferences led to its closure.
Some sources, like Chef’s Resource, claim Farrell’s is still operating, but these appear outdated or unverified. A 2025 X post suggested activity from a Farrell’s account, but no evidence confirms open locations. The brand’s official website and social media show no recent updates.
Fans continue to reminisce online, sharing memories of sundaes and celebrations. While the chain is defunct, its legacy lives on through nostalgia. No new locations or reopenings have been confirmed.
Customer Reviews and Experiences
Before its closure, Farrell’s earned strong reviews, averaging 4.2–4.5 stars on platforms like Birdeye and Yelp. Customers loved the massive sundaes, with the Zoo being a standout for groups. A 2018 Birdeye review called the Brea location “a blast from the past” with “delicious” ice cream.
The food, like cheeseburgers and onion rings, was praised for its hearty portions. Reviewers often highlighted the friendly staff and festive vibe, especially for birthdays. Some noted long waits during peak hours as a downside.
Post-closure, fans on X express sadness over losing Farrell’s, sharing photos of old visits. The nostalgic atmosphere remains a key talking point. Recent reviews focus on memories rather than current experiences.
Signature Menu Items
Farrell’s menu was a draw for its indulgent offerings. Here are some iconic items based on past reviews:
- The Zoo: A 30-scoop sundae with multiple flavors, sauces, and toppings, served with a parade of staff. It was a showstopper for parties.
- Pig’s Trough: A banana split with three scoops, perfect for sharing. Fans loved its generous size.
- Hot Fudge Sundae: Classic vanilla ice cream with rich fudge and whipped cream. Reviewers called it a nostalgic favorite.
- Cheeseburger Deluxe: A juicy burger with fries, noted for its fresh taste. It complemented the sweet menu.
These items defined Farrell’s over-the-top style. Customers often paired a sundae with a burger for a full meal. The menu’s fun names added to the experience.
Comparing Iconic Farrell’s Treats
Here’s a table comparing three popular Farrell’s desserts based on past customer feedback:
| Dessert | Description | Customer Feedback |
|---|---|---|
| The Zoo | 30 scoops, multiple flavors, toppings | “Insane size, perfect for group celebrations.” |
| Pig’s Trough | Banana split with three scoops, sauces | “Huge and delicious, great for two.” |
| Hot Fudge Sundae | Vanilla ice cream, hot fudge, whipped cream | “Classic and creamy, never disappoints.” |
This table highlights why these treats were loved. The Zoo was a spectacle, while the Hot Fudge Sundae was a reliable classic. Reviewers often shared these at family events.
The Nostalgic Atmosphere
Farrell’s was known for its early 1900s theme, with red vinyl booths and straw-hatted staff. Player pianos and ragtime music created a lively, retro vibe. Customers felt transported to a bygone era.
The staff’s theatrical antics, like singing for birthdays, added to the fun. Reviewers on nu-detroit.com recalled employees’ “entertaining antics” as a highlight. Kids loved the free sundaes and festive energy.
The decor, including vintage photos and soda fountain counters, was a draw. Even in its final years, the Brea location maintained this charm. Reviews often mentioned the atmosphere as much as the food.
Challenges Faced by Farrell’s
Farrell’s struggled with declining customer traffic in the 1980s as fast-food chains grew. High operating costs for large sundaes and themed decor hurt profitability. Marriott’s sale in 1982 led to inconsistent management.
The 2008 revival faced similar issues, with only eight locations by 2014. Marcus Lemonis’ 2016 intervention on The Profit helped briefly, but economic pressures persisted. The Brea closure in 2019 marked the end.
Changing consumer preferences, favoring healthier or modern desserts, played a role. Fans on X lament the loss, citing nostalgia as a reason it couldn’t compete. The chain’s large-scale model was hard to sustain.
Tips for Fans Seeking Similar Experiences
While Farrell’s is closed, fans can recreate its vibe at home. Try making a large sundae with multiple ice cream flavors, whipped cream, and hot fudge. Use recipes from sites like Allrecipes for inspiration.
Visit retro-themed diners or ice cream parlors, like Mel’s Drive-In or Ghirardelli Soda Fountain. These offer similar nostalgic atmospheres and indulgent desserts. Check Yelp for local spots with high ratings.
Explore brands like Baskin-Robbins or Cold Stone for big sundaes. Their customizable options mimic Farrell’s over-the-top style. Look for family-friendly spots to capture the same celebratory feel.
Social Media and Nostalgia
X posts reflect strong nostalgia for Farrell’s, with users sharing old photos and memories. A 2025 post mentioned a recent Farrell’s account update, but no evidence supports open locations. Fans reminisce about birthday parties and The Zoo.
Instagram and YouTube feature vintage Farrell’s ads and fan-made videos of past visits. These highlight the chain’s iconic sundaes and lively vibe. The brand’s social media is now inactive, reflecting its closure.
Yelp reviews for the Brea location, averaging 4.2 stars, focus on pre-2019 experiences. Customers miss the “fun and chaos” of Farrell’s. The online buzz keeps its legacy alive despite no active parlors.
Why Farrell’s Left a Lasting Legacy
Farrell’s was more than an ice cream parlor—it was a cultural experience. Its massive sundaes and theatrical service created lifelong memories. Reviewers still share stories of birthday celebrations and family outings.
The brand’s 1900s theme and kid-friendly perks set it apart from modern chains. Even after closing, its influence lingers in retro diners and dessert shops. Fans hope for a future revival, though none is confirmed.
Farrell’s showed how food and atmosphere could create joy. Its closure highlights the challenges of maintaining nostalgic brands. Yet, its memory endures through shared stories and online tributes.
Summary
Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour, once a vibrant chain with 120 locations, is no longer open, with its final Brea, California, parlor closing in 2019. Known for massive sundaes like The Zoo and a nostalgic 1900s theme, it earned 4.2–4.5-star reviews for its creamy treats and lively vibe. Economic challenges, high costs, and shifting tastes led to its decline, despite a 2008 revival and a 2016 feature on The Profit. Fans continue to celebrate its legacy on social media, sharing memories of birthdays and indulgent desserts. While Farrell’s is gone, its nostalgic charm lives on, inspiring similar experiences at retro diners.
FAQ
Is Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour still open?
No, Farrell’s is no longer open. The last location in Brea, California, closed in 2019 due to economic challenges. Fans can visit retro diners for a similar vibe.
What were Farrell’s most popular desserts?
The Zoo (30 scoops), Pig’s Trough (banana split), and Hot Fudge Sundae were favorites. Reviewers loved their massive size and festive presentation. They were perfect for celebrations.
Why did Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour close?
Declining customer traffic, high operating costs, and changing consumer preferences led to closures. The 1980s saw major declines, and the 2008 revival couldn’t sustain the brand. The final Brea location closed in 2019.
Can I recreate Farrell’s experience at home?
Yes, make large sundaes with multiple ice cream flavors, hot fudge, and whipped cream. Use recipes from Allrecipes for inspiration. Visit retro diners like Mel’s Drive-In for a similar atmosphere.