Frigid Queen

For those driving through Mattoon, Illinois, a visit to Frigid Queen offers a taste of local history and a classic ice cream experience that stands the test of time. This isn't just any ice cream stand; it's a piece of the city's unique and storied past. As the original ice cream shop that eventually gave birth to the legendary Mattoon Burger King, Frigid Queen holds a special place in the hearts of locals. Its distinctive cone-shaped building and nostalgic atmosphere make it a true landmark, drawing in patrons who appreciate both great ice cream and a glimpse into a bygone era.

Frigid Queen's story dates back to 1952, when it was founded by Gene and Betty Hoots. It began as a successful ice cream shop, and it was the success of this business that led the Hoots to expand, adding burgers and fries and ultimately creating the famous local Burger King. Today, Frigid Queen continues to operate, focusing on what it does best: providing delicious ice cream to the community.

The experience at Frigid Queen is a blend of simple pleasures and unique charm. The design of the building itself is a point of interest, and once you get your ice cream, you'll find that the quality lives up to the reputation. While the business is now operating with a more limited menu than its historic counterpart, it remains a beloved spot for a quick and satisfying treat. This local institution has a loyal following who appreciate its straightforward approach and friendly service.

As with any business, customer experiences can sometimes vary. While most patrons praise the great ice cream and friendly people, a few have had less-than-perfect visits. However, the unique history and the overall positive sentiment from the community keep Frigid Queen as a cornerstone of the Mattoon dessert scene. For anyone in Central Illinois looking for a memorable ice cream outing, Frigid Queen offers a distinct experience that you simply won't find anywhere else.

Frigid Queen is located at 1508 Charleston Ave in Mattoon, IL. Its location is easily accessible for both Mattoon residents and those passing through on major highways. The shop is a standalone building with a unique design, making it easy to spot and find.

The accessibility of Frigid Queen is a key advantage. Its position on Charleston Avenue, a main thoroughfare, ensures that it is a convenient stop for a quick dessert. While there are other food options nearby, Frigid Queen's distinctive appearance makes it a landmark in its own right. The layout is perfect for a quick stop, as it primarily serves as a walk-up ice cream shop. This makes it an ideal spot for a quick and easy treat without the need for a long, sit-down meal. Whether you're heading home from work or looking for a fun destination with the family, Frigid Queen's location makes it a simple and practical choice.

Frigid Queen provides a focused menu of classic ice cream treats that have been satisfying customers for decades.

• Ice Cream: The core of the business, offering delicious and high-quality ice cream. Customers particularly praise the unique soft serve.
• Shakes and Malts: The shop offers a variety of milkshakes and malts, made with their signature ice cream.
• Sundaes: A classic ice cream shop staple, with various toppings to create your perfect dessert.
• Cones: Customers can choose from a variety of cones to enjoy their ice cream.
• Floats: For those who love a refreshing mix of soda and ice cream, floats are a popular choice.
• Limited Savory Menu: While known for its ice cream, the Frigid Queen also has a limited menu of savory items, which may include hot dogs and nachos, offering a small variety for those who want more than just a sweet treat.

Frigid Queen's enduring appeal in the Mattoon community is thanks to several key features and highlights that make it a special place.

• Unique, Historic Design: The cone-shaped building is a significant landmark and a major feature. It stands as a physical testament to the shop's long and interesting history, making it a memorable place to visit.
• Friendly Service: Many customers consistently praise the friendly and welcoming staff, which contributes to the positive and inviting atmosphere of the shop.
• Part of a Local Legend: Frigid Queen is an integral part of the famous Mattoon Burger King story, a fact that draws in both loyal locals and curious visitors who want to experience a piece of Illinois history.
• Focus on Quality Ice Cream: The shop's reputation is built on its delicious and satisfying ice cream. This focus on a core product ensures that what they do, they do well.

To get in touch with Frigid Queen or to find their location, here is their contact information.

Address: 1508 Charleston Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938, USA

Phone: (217) 234-8122

For locals in Mattoon and the wider Illinois region, Frigid Queen is a perfect destination for several reasons. It offers a classic and reliable ice cream experience that feels authentic and deeply rooted in the community. The shop's unique design and fascinating history make it more than just a place to get dessert; it's a local landmark that you can be proud to support.

While the menu is focused, what it offers is done well, providing great ice cream and a friendly atmosphere. The fact that the shop is a part of the legendary local Burger King story adds an extra layer of interest that appeals to both long-time residents and new visitors. It is a place where you can feel connected to the history of the town while enjoying a simple, delicious treat. For anyone in Mattoon looking for a taste of the good old days and some genuinely good ice cream, Frigid Queen is a must-visit spot.

Frigid Queen

1508 Charleston Ave, Mattoon, IL 61938, USA