T F Ice Cream

For generations of Hoosiers, certain local establishments become more than just businesses; they become part of the community's fabric, etched into memories and traditions. In Boonville, Indiana, T F Ice Cream is precisely one such cherished place. What started as "Tastee Freez" in 1953, under the ownership of Ralph Wilson and a silent partner, has evolved into a true Boonville icon. Terry Fortune purchased the business in 1978, later changing the name to T F Ice Cream in 2002 to maintain the local favorites the franchise wasn't allowing, such as the beloved orange-pineapple twist. This rich history means that when you visit T F Ice Cream, you're not just getting a sweet treat; you're stepping into a piece of Boonville's past and present.

T F Ice Cream has earned its reputation for providing consistently delicious, creamy ice cream and a wide array of classic American diner fare. For Indiana residents, it’s a go-to spot for everything from a refreshing soft-serve cone on a warm day to a hearty breakfast or a satisfying hot dog. The enduring appeal lies in its commitment to quality ingredients, generous portions, and a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere. This balance of nostalgic charm and reliable service has cultivated a loyal following, making it a must-visit destination for families, friends, and anyone looking for a comforting, authentic local experience in Boonville.

Despite a fire in 2007 that nearly destroyed the building, Terry and his wife Danna rebuilt, ensuring that T F Ice Cream would continue to be a favorite ice cream destination in southern Indiana. This resilience further solidifies its status as a vital part of the community. Locals consistently praise the creamy ice cream and the wide variety of menu items, with many recounting fond memories of visits spanning decades. It’s this blend of history, quality, and community spirit that makes T F Ice Cream a true Boonville treasure.

T F Ice Cream is conveniently located at 1002 E Walnut St, Boonville, IN 47601, USA. This prominent address places it in a central and easily accessible part of Boonville, making it a familiar landmark for local residents and simple to find for visitors. East Walnut Street is a well-trafficked road, ensuring high visibility and straightforward navigation to the establishment.

The accessibility of T F Ice Cream is a key factor in its popularity. Since 1980, when Terry Fortune remodeled the building, a convenient drive-thru window was added, allowing patrons to quickly grab their favorite treats without leaving their cars. This feature is particularly valuable for those on the go or with children. Additionally, the establishment typically offers ample parking, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience for customers who prefer to walk up to the window or enjoy their treats on-site. Its location is ideal for serving the Boonville community, whether you're coming from nearby residential areas, local schools, or simply passing through town.

T F Ice Cream boasts a surprisingly extensive menu that goes well beyond just ice cream, making it a versatile spot for any meal or craving.

• Ice Cream & Frozen Treats: This is their specialty, featuring:

  • Soft Serve: Available in classic vanilla, chocolate, and the renowned orange-pineapple twist (a local favorite they preserved by becoming independent). Customers praise its creaminess.

  • Homemade Hand-Dipped Ice Cream: Offering a variety of flavors beyond soft serve, providing a denser, richer ice cream experience.

  • Sundaes: A wide array of specialty sundaes including Banana Splits, Turtle, Snickers, Hot Fudge Cake, Parfait, Almond Delight, and Tin Roof. Customers can also create their own sundaes with various toppings. One customer highly recommends "the turtle sundae made with chocolate ice-cream!"

  • Shakes, Floats & Malts: Classic blended drinks in numerous flavors like chocolate, cherry, hot fudge, vanilla, strawberry, orange, peanut butter, and more. They even offer a unique "Red Bull Float."

  • Derbies: Dipped cones available in multiple flavors, adding a crunchy shell to the creamy ice cream.

  • Freezees & Slushees: Blended treats with mix-ins (like M&M's, Oreo, Reese's) and refreshing fruit-flavored slushees.

  • Novelties: Pre-made treats like ice cream cookie sandwiches.

  • Take Home Ice Cream: Both soft serve and homemade hard ice cream are available in larger quantities to enjoy at home.

• Breakfast: A morning menu featuring items like Biscuits & Gravy, Breakfast Bowls, Breakfast Burritos, and Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuits, allowing for a complete morning stop.

• Lunch / Dinner Items:

  • Hot Dogs: Plain, Chili, Chili Cheese, BBQ, BBQ Cheese, and Chicken Bacon Ranch hot dogs.

  • BBQ Sandwiches & Plates: Pulled pork, BBQ sandwiches, and BBQ plates with sides. They even have Friday BBQ dinners with options like pork steak and ribs.

  • Other Favorites: Taco in a Bag, Nachos, Chili Chips & Cheese, Pretzels (whole and bites with cheese or cinnamon/sugar), and various salads.

• Beverages: A selection of sodas (including an "exceptional" root beer praised by a customer), coffee (including flavored and iced options), and Lemon Shake-Ups.

T F Ice Cream offers several distinctive features and highlights that make it a standout destination in Boonville, Indiana:

• Nostalgic Charm & Rich History: Established in 1953 as Tastee Freez, and proudly independent since 2002 as T F Ice Cream, the establishment carries a deep sense of local history and nostalgia. It evokes a simpler time, making a visit feel like a step back in time, as noted by a customer who worked there years ago and still considers it a favorite.

• Exceptional Ice Cream Quality: Customers consistently rave about the "very creamy & delicious" ice cream, whether it's the classic soft serve or the hard-dipped varieties. The freshness of their cones, described as "fresh & crisp, perfect," also adds to the overall enjoyment.

• Unique Orange-Pineapple Twist: This specific flavor is a beloved local legend, which T F Ice Cream notably kept on its menu after becoming independent. It's a testament to their commitment to local favorites and a must-try for new visitors.

• Diverse Menu Beyond Ice Cream: Unlike many ice cream shops, T F Ice Cream offers a full breakfast menu, a wide array of hot dogs, BBQ items, and other snack foods. This makes it a versatile spot for any meal, attracting a broader customer base and encouraging longer visits.

• Highly Praised Fountain Root Beer: A specific highlight from a customer review, the "exceptional" fountain root beer stands out as an unexpected but delightful beverage offering, showcasing attention to detail even in their drink selection.

• Convenient Drive-Thru: The addition of a drive-thru window in 1980 significantly enhances customer convenience, allowing for quick and easy pick-ups, especially for families or those on a tight schedule. They also have a walk-up window.

• Resilience & Community Spirit: The fact that the owners rebuilt after a fire in 2007 demonstrates their dedication to the business and the Boonville community, reinforcing their status as a local institution.

• Dog-Friendly: T F Ice Cream offers shaded outdoor seating where Fido can join you, making it a great spot for pet owners.

For those in Indiana, particularly in Boonville and the surrounding areas, looking to visit this beloved local spot, here’s how you can connect with T F Ice Cream:

Address: 1002 E Walnut St, Boonville, IN 47601, USA

Phone: (812) 715-3367

Mobile Phone: +1 812-715-3367

For the most up-to-date information on their operating hours, daily specials, or any seasonal changes, it is always recommended to check their official website or social media channels, or simply give them a call before your visit.

For the residents of Boonville, Indiana, T F Ice Cream is far more than just a place to satisfy a sweet craving; it’s a deeply ingrained part of the community’s identity and a truly suitable destination for locals. Its enduring popularity stems from a unique blend of historical significance, diverse offerings, and a steadfast commitment to quality that resonates deeply with Hoosier values.

The fact that T F Ice Cream has been serving the community since 1953 (initially as Tastee Freez) gives it an undeniable sense of nostalgia and tradition. Many locals have grown up visiting this spot, creating multi-generational memories over creamy cones and classic sundaes. The preservation of local favorites, like the iconic orange-pineapple twist, showcases the owners' dedication to their patrons and their understanding of what makes their establishment special to the Boonville community. This historical continuity fosters a strong sense of belonging and pride among residents.

Beyond the ice cream, T F Ice Cream's expansive menu, featuring everything from hearty breakfast options to delicious hot dogs and BBQ, makes it an incredibly versatile local dining spot. This breadth of offerings means that T F Ice Cream can cater to various needs throughout the day, whether it's a quick breakfast before work, a casual lunch, or a refreshing evening treat. This versatility makes it a practical and appealing choice for daily life in Boonville, ensuring there's always a reason to visit.

Customer reviews consistently highlight the exceptional quality of their ice cream, describing it as "very creamy & delicious," and praising the "fresh & crisp" cones. The unexpected delight of their "exceptional" fountain root beer also underscores their attention to detail across the menu. An endorsement from a former employee, stating it's "still a favorite of mine," speaks volumes about the lasting positive impression T F Ice Cream leaves on those who know it best.

In conclusion, T F Ice Cream is perfectly suited for locals because it offers high-quality, delicious food and ice cream within a familiar, friendly, and historically rich environment. It's a place where quality meets community, where tradition is honored, and where every visit feels like a comforting step into the heart of Boonville, Indiana. It's truly a must-try establishment that continues to bring joy to its loyal patrons.

T F Ice Cream

1002 E Walnut St, Boonville, IN 47601, USA