California's Ice Cream Trail: A Sweet Adventure
In a delightful display of culinary enthusiasm, Don Lane embarked on a journey that has captivated both locals and ice cream aficionados alike. This former mayor of Santa Cruz and founder of Saturn Café is on a mission to celebrate the state's ice cream culture, one scoop at a time.
Lane's passion for ice cream is evident in his matching ice cream cone tattoos with his daughter, a testament to their shared love for the frozen treat. His tour, spanning over 90 local ice cream shops across California, is a testament to his dedication. The timing is perfect, as July is National Ice Cream Month, providing the ideal backdrop for this sweet adventure.
The tour began in Southern California, meandering through San Diego, Los Angeles, and the Central Valley. Along the way, Lane encountered family and friends, sharing the joy of ice cream with them. He believes that sharing a scoop is an act of fun and lightheartedness, a simple pleasure that brings people together.
Upon returning to Santa Cruz, Lane organized a local ice cream crawl, visiting Mission Hill Creamery and Coffee, Gran Gelato Caffé, The Penny Ice Creamery, and Ice Cream on Fair. The group donned ice cream cone party hats, adding a playful element to their journey. Lane's bike, adorned with the tour's logo, became a rolling symbol of his enthusiasm.
One of the highlights of the crawl was the special dish shaped like the World Cup trophy, a nod to Spain's recent victory in the FIFA World Cup. The day also marked Mission Hill Creamery's 16th anniversary, with owner David Kumec spreading love and happiness through his ice cream. Lane's proclamation from Mayor Fred Keeley further emphasized the significance of these local businesses.
Gran Gelato Caffé, a newer addition to the scene, opened its doors in March. The Costanza family, Luciana and Sandro, took a month-long gelato class in Italy to master traditional and innovative flavors. Their passion for sharing their craft with the community is evident in their unique offerings, including hazelnut, popcorn, and even mozzarella gelato.
Lane's journey is far from over. He plans to continue his California ice cream tour, exploring nearby towns and sampling a variety of flavors. With 55 ice cream shops already visited, his strategy has evolved into a spontaneous adventure. From coffee-chocolate combinations to black licorice and tomato basil flavors, each scoop brings a new experience.
As Lane continues his journey, he embraces the unexpected, allowing the tour to unfold organically. His enthusiasm for ice cream is infectious, inspiring others to explore the diverse flavors and local businesses that make California's ice cream scene so special. This sweet adventure is a testament to the power of shared experiences and the joy that a simple scoop of ice cream can bring.
