The Original Rainbow Cone - Beverly

For nearly a century, The Original Rainbow Cone in Chicago has been a cherished local institution, serving up a unique dessert that is as much a part of the city's heritage as its deep-dish pizza or Italian beef. Located in the heart of the Beverly neighborhood, the shop has captivated generations of Illinois residents with its singular approach to a classic treat. The story began in 1926 when Joseph and Katherine Sapp opened their first small ice cream stand with a vision to create something different from the standard chocolate and vanilla options of the time. Joe, an orphan from Ohio who spent his childhood saving up for the occasional scoop of ice cream, wanted to offer a "carnival of flavors" on a single cone. This simple yet brilliant idea led to the creation of the now-famous Original Rainbow Cone, a five-flavor combination that has remained unchanged for decades. The shop's distinctive pink stucco building, located at 9233 S Western Ave, has become a landmark in its own right, its vibrant exterior mirroring the colorful and joyful experience that awaits inside. This isn't just an ice cream shop; it's a piece of living history, a place where memories are made and traditions are passed down from one generation to the next.

The Beverly location of The Original Rainbow Cone is strategically situated to serve not only the immediate community but also visitors from across the Chicago area and beyond. Found at 9233 S Western Ave, the shop is a cornerstone of the far South Side. Its position on a major thoroughfare makes it a convenient stop for a wide range of travelers. While the area is known for its residential charm, Western Avenue itself is a busy street, providing easy access by car. For those who drive, there is generally ample street parking available, making a quick stop for a cone a simple affair. This accessibility is a key reason why the shop has been a popular destination for so many years. The location is also well-integrated into the local public transportation network, though a car is often the most direct way to get there for many people. It's a place that Chicagoans have been making a pilgrimage to for generations, often as a special trip. The convenient location ensures that the journey to get a taste of this local favorite is as easy as the experience is enjoyable.

The Original Rainbow Cone is famous for its namesake product, a cone stacked with five distinct flavors that are not scooped, but rather sliced in a specific order. This method is the very essence of what makes the cone unique, creating a beautiful and delicious stack that offers a harmonious blend of flavors in every bite. The classic combination includes Orange Sherbet, Pistachio, Palmer House (a vanilla with cherries and walnuts), Strawberry, and Chocolate. While the original cone is the star of the show, the shop's menu has expanded over the years to include a variety of other frozen treats and desserts. The services offered cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences, ensuring that there's something for everyone to enjoy.

• The Original Rainbow Cone, a stack of five sliced flavors: Chocolate, Strawberry, Palmer House, Pistachio, and Orange Sherbet.
• Hand-packed Pints & Quarts, allowing customers to take their favorite flavors home to share (or not share).
• Super Sundaes, including creations like the Upside Down Pineapple Cake Sundae, as well as classic options like Hot Fudge and Turtle Sundaes.
• Ice Cream Cakes and Cake Rolls, featuring the iconic five-flavor combination, perfect for special occasions.
• Hand-Spun Shakes and Malts, which can be made with any of the available ice cream flavors.
• Mini Donuts, which are made to order at some locations and can be a perfect complement to a frozen treat.
• A variety of other cones, including single, double, and triple-scoop options with feature flavors, as well as other sliced creations like the Chocolate Obsession cone.

Beyond its famous cone, The Original Rainbow Cone - Beverly location has several standout features that contribute to its charm and long-lasting appeal. The shop is more than just a place to get dessert; it's a destination rich with history and community spirit. The very process of slicing the ice cream instead of scooping it is a highlight, creating an aesthetically pleasing treat that is instantly recognizable and perfect for sharing on social media. The specific recipe for the Palmer House flavor, with its blend of vanilla, cherries, and walnuts, is a direct nod to Chicago history and a unique feature that sets it apart. The shop’s history as a family-owned business for many years is also a major highlight for locals, as it embodies the kind of small-town feel that the city is known for, even within a large metropolitan area.

• The original and unchanged five-flavor recipe that has been a Chicago staple since 1926.
• The unique "slicing" method, which allows customers to taste a variety of flavors in a single bite.
• The historic pink stucco building, which has been a local landmark on Western Avenue for decades.
• A wide menu that has expanded to include not only the famous cone but also shakes, sundaes, cakes, and other desserts.
• A deep sense of community and family history, with generations of the Sapp family having run the business.
• The availability of special party packs and catering options, making it a great choice for local events and gatherings.

For a direct taste of this Chicago landmark, you can visit their original location in the Beverly neighborhood. The shop is easily identifiable and a frequent stop for locals and tourists alike who are looking to experience a true piece of Chicago's culinary history.

Address: 9233 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60643, USA

Phone: (773) 238-9833

The Original Rainbow Cone is an essential part of the local experience for anyone living in or visiting Illinois. Its long history, unique product, and unwavering commitment to quality have made it a beloved tradition for nearly a century. For locals, it's a place of nostalgia and fond memories, a spot they’ve visited with their own families for years. The distinct, flavorful experience of the Rainbow Cone is a summer rite of passage for many Chicagoans, and a reminder of the simple joys of a well-made dessert. The combination of classic flavors and a unique presentation makes it a standout choice over other ice cream shops. It’s a place where you can feel the weight of history in every bite, knowing that countless others before you have enjoyed the exact same treat. Despite some modern expansions, the original Beverly location maintains its authentic charm and continues to serve as the heart of the brand. It is an ideal place for locals to take out-of-town guests, a fun stop after a day of sightseeing, or simply a delicious indulgence on a warm Chicago day. The Original Rainbow Cone is more than just an ice cream shop; it is a delicious part of the city's story and a perfect place for anyone in the Illinois region to create their own lasting memories.

The Original Rainbow Cone - Beverly

9233 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60643, USA