By Beth Hogan
Ormewood Park favorite, Morelli’s Gourmet Ice Cream and Desserts, opened a second location in the Edgewood Retail District on June 18. A family from Lake Claire was first in line for free ice cream to celebrate the grand opening. The line stretched down the block with passersby joining to try the free samples offered the first two hours.
The original Morelli’s was opened in Ormewood Park in 2008 by husband-and-wife team Donald Sargent and Clarissa Morelli. Morelli was a psychologist in Brazil and Sargent came from the pharmaceutical industry. A weak economy made them willing to try something completely new. The company uses fresh ingredients and creates new flavors based on the season and customer ideas. Salted caramel and Chocolate Guinness are two favorites.
Morelli’s quickly became a hit in the neighborhood with their unique flavors, bringing customers willing to wait in long lines on summer nights. Local and national press accolades followed. Top Chef favorite and Atlanta chef Kevin Gillespie became a regular customer. He approached Sargent and Morelli about working with them. He has created a few flavors for Morelli’s and is the genius behind the sundae bar at the new location. Four sundaes are offered, including Banoffe Pie and Campfire S’mores.
A Sundae Bar isn’t the only new thing at the second location. There is indoor seating. One wall has benches upholstered to look like ice cream sandwiches. Service is from behind a refrigerated glass compartment displaying the ice creams. Sargent plans to rent out the new location for birthday parties in the future. The pair has been approached about opening a location inside Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Our neighborhood ice cream joint is poised to become world famous!
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