UPDATE: Farrell’s reveals Mission Viejo location/timeline
Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour is planning a major California comeback.
A series of operational blunders and legal tussles led to the closure of more than 100 Farrell’s in the United States years ago. A Santa Clarita parlor is the only Farrell’s left in California.
But, now, the Orange County firm that owns the Farrell’s brand trademark said it plans to grow the beloved ice cream parlour concept, again. The expansion will focus in Southern California with the next one launching in central or south Orange County, said Paul Kramer, president of Parlour Enterprises in Laguna Niguel.
My 7th birthday party at Farrell's in Orange. Dig those clothes!
A Farrell’s primer for Millennial-types: Growing up, I recall Farrell’s being every kid’s fantasy party spot. Employees — dressed in pin-striped vests, old fashioned ties and cane hats — served sundaes, floats and banana splits to customers. A player piano set the musical tone as did the beat of the famous “Farrell’s drum,” gonged every time a major announcement was made in the restaurant.
My mom recently dug up my old Farrell’s hat from her garage — a memento from my 7th birthday party at the Farrell’s in Orange at 2045 N. Tustin St. (That’s me, right, and my oh-so, 1970s-hip mom. What are we wearing?)
A Farrell’s party was my version of a Chuck E. Cheese bash. Seeing the red, white and blue cane hat brought back so many fun memories.
I’m not alone. Kramer says he gets dozens of emails a week from people asking: “When is Farrell’s coming back?”
Update: See CBS news report of Santa Clarita Farrell’s.
My old hat
The New vs. Old: At its peak, Farrell’s had about 130 stores in the United States — from Staten Island to San Diego. Orange County was home to five Farrell’s. Parlour Enterprises plans to open two Farrell’s in 2009 and six in 2010. The new Farrell’s will maintain the original concept’s classic look, but with a “modern twist,” said Kramer.
“We’re going to do to Farrell’s what Volkswagen did to the (new) Beetle,” said Kramer.
For example, the player piano is more cutting edge and interactive, offering 300 songs for customers to select. The menu will include classic American dishes, as well as contemporary meals to satisfy foodies. Servers will wear the same old-fashioned attire, but they will also use microphones to communicate with each other and to speed up orders.
What about the ice cream?
Depending on which Farrell’s you went to, the ice cream often changed. Bob Farrell, who founded the chain in 1963, started out with Carnation ice cream, said Kramer. Some parlors later switched to an original recipe that Farrell concocted, while other stores used “Thrifty” ice cream. Right now, Kramer said he and his partners are looking at various options, including bringing back the Thrifty brand or using Blue Bunny ice cream.
Regardless, signature desserts such as the Nutty, Nutty, Parlour’s Tin Roof and Farrell’s Rocky Road will remain on the menu. (Farrell’s online menu.)
What about the economy?
Kramer said Parlour Enterprises has enough capital to open the Farrell’s planned in Orange County. The company, however, is looking for investors — many of whom are skittish of investing money in the fragile restaurant sector, Kramer said.
After opening two Farrell’s in 2009, the company hopes to start franchising the concept. The firm believes brand recognition is on their side. The Santa Clarita Farrell’s, for example, gets customers who drive up to 500 miles for a visit, said Parlour Enterprises Chief executive Michael Fleming.
“It is not very often you have a company that shuts down but still has a 98 percent positive image among previous customers,” said Fleming.
The location of the Orange County Farrell’s has not been decided. Stay tuned for updates.
Tell us: Do you remember Farrell’s? Are you excited about this brand, or is it a risky idea during a rotten economy? Comment here, and share your thoughts.
Related stories:
- Farrell’s owners battle over rights to expand (OCR- 2005)
- Willy Wonka-inspired candy shop opens in O.C.
(Photos courtesy of the Luna family and Parlour Enterprises. CLICK on any of the images to enlarge.)
Whee hoo!!
We have talked about this for years.
That would be a great idea.
WHEN I WAS A KID, WE HAD A FARRELLS IN THE EAST BRUNSWICK MALL(NOW KNOWN AS THE SIMON MALL)….
IT WAS A FUN PLACE…. THEY SHOULD BRING IT BACK….. I WOULD DEFINITELY BRING MY KIDS
HURRY UP THOUGH…. MY KIDS ARE GETTING OLD… 14 &10
It’s about time ~ me and my husband were hoping the Farrells would be in the Kaleidoscope but the mall works just as well. I went to Farrells growing up in Oregon ~ can’t wait to get my first pig’s trough in over 35 years! Yeah to Farrells.
I am excited that Farrell’s in coming back to the OC. I have many fond memories of getting together with friends at after school dances, birthdays & graduations.The Farrell’s Zoo was always exciting to see being delivered to a table.
This is great! I remember Farrells as part of my childhood. My grama and her cousin always took me here. I have pics still from back then! I wish there was one now in the Chicago area. My gram will be 96 and I would have loved to take her to Farrell’s for her B-day! I remember eathing the whole Pig trough at age 10. Also enjoyed what I think they called the Gibson Girl. Plus all the great old time candy they had in the gift shop, Rock candy was my favorite.
Good luck Farrell’s!
When I saw this article I instantly remembered all the great birthdays I had when I was a kid because of Farrell’s. It was a tradition for us to go to Farrell’s for every birthday in the 70’s. I am so happy now I can take my three kids there and hope they will enjoy as much as I did.
What a pleasant surprise, indeed! I cannot remember how many times I visited Farrell’s for special occasions, and not-so-special occasions. When you’re a kid, anytime is the right time for ice cream, eh? While things today are not nearly the same as life in the 70’s and 80’s, I’m sure the experience will be special anyways.
I can’t wait to take the little ones there to celebrate birthdays like we did when we were kids.
OMG! This is great! I remember the one on beach blvd. I had many birthdays there. I will never forget when I was 12 years old I got hurt, and I had two patches on my eyes so I couldn’t see but my parents brought me here for my birthday, I just remember eating a lot and everyone telling me I was making a mess.
The ice cream wasn’t the big draw of Ferrell’s. It was the the costumes/uniforms they wore, the restaurant decore, and the crazy ice cream concoctions that you could order. The ice cream was only Thrifty quality. Personally, I don’t eat ice cream that much, but when I do I want it to be the best. So I’m looking for high quality so I either buy Hagen Daz from the store or go to Cold Stone Creamery. This is however a great place for kids.
I’d hate to see what the price would be for a Hagen Daz or Cold Stone Creamery ZOO. 8 Pounds…….. As you mentioned, this is a place for “Kids” which generally means a family place with family prices.
I personally vote for Fosselman’s Ice Cream.
Fantastic, Wonderful, I am so Happy! I used to take my daughter to Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor in Orange, across from what was then the Orange Mall. She’s now 40 and I’m sure she will want to come back as soon as they open another Orange location. Hopefully in the same area. Bravo Farrell’s!
I can’t wait! I celebrated a couple birthdays there and always had a blast.
woo hoo! my lil bro was traumatized by the sirens at farrell’s in sacto!
good times.
i see restarting the bday celebrations at farrell’s!
YES! Farrell’s was THE must-go-to place for kids! birthday party spot…
Give me a trough, please!
The servers, the piano, the hats, the menus…
This was the favorite of the favorites!
I always wondered what happened to them. We’ve missed Farrells!
We had one in Detroit, Michigan…right off of Telegraph Rd. We had so many fun birthday parties there. I look forward to reliving some old and making some new memories here in California with my son!
Bring it to Tustin. We love Ice cream here!
I was just telling my husband and daughter about the huge desserts they used to serve at Farrell’s in Portland, Or., called “The Trough” and the “Portland Zoo” complete with little plastic zoo animals. Bring back Farrell’s!
Bring on the Trough!!!!!
Everybody calm down, because we have been here before. In early 2003 the Register ran several big stories about how Farrell’s was coming back to a new location at The Block, plus more locations around SoCal. The Block location was announced to be opening in “Summer 2003″. Summer came and went and no Farrell’s. Then in 2005 the same group of investors announced yet again that they were getting the concept off the ground and new Farrell’s would be sprouting up around OC by the end of the year. 2005 ended, and no Farrell’s.
Check the Register archive search function to dig up those stories, complete with concept artwork, from 2003-05. Needless to say I’m skeptical.
And if this is the same group that is running the Santa Clarita location at the mini-golf course, I’m even more skeptical. I drove up there once to visit the Farrell’s of my youth, and I didn’t find it. They had some of the same design elements and wallpaper, and the kids working there kind of had a similar outfit but nothing nearly as fancy, but it wasn’t nearly as special or fun as the original. All of the details had gone missing, and they had cheaped out on the interior decor. It was like a “Farrell’s Lite” after some budget cuts and some sloppy management.
I’ll be the first in line to order a Zoo if a real Farrell’s ever returns, but after false starts and half-hearted attempts in Santa Clarita, I am extremely skeptical that this is actually happening. Nevermind the global financial collapse and frozen credit markets they are launching this in (for the third time).
I agree regarding the Farrell’s in Santa Clarita.
It was a huge disappointment. The ambiance was nothing
like the original. Some of the decor was the same but the nostalgic
feeling was missing.
And the ice cream was far inferior to the ice cream I remember from
my youth. As a child, I really enjoyed the Super-Super Shakes and the
ice cream was so tasty. I ordered a shake at the Santa Clarita location–a regular shake, as they didn’t have any called Super-Super–and the ice
cream was very bland, nothing like I had so fondly remembered.
Overall, it was an unpleasant experience, as I had driven a long way
to eat bad ice cream in a noisy mall. Also, the taffy I bought on my
way out was stale..;…
I loved Farrell’s as a kid. It was the entire package that made it so special. It would be great to have on again but I too am skeptical.
If they do come back, I hope they’ve learned something about customer service. My parents took our family of 7 there when we were kids for my little brother’s birthday. My brother wanted a banana split, but asked to substitute vanilla instead of the scoop strawberry ice cream, because he was allergic to strawberries. They wouldn’t do it! My father even spoke to the manager who said they could not because there was no room on the order ticket to write that out. Are you kidding me? Never went back.
Hey Troy - don’t be rainin’ on my parade!
Let’s hope the legal wrangle is behind the investors and they can put a smile on your face with a Farrells Zoo!!
Financial collapse or not, I will be there with my kids to celebrate as soon as they are open.
Wow!
I’m originally from Portland, Oregon (where Farrell’s began) and have met Bob Farrell (the founder). He’s an amazing man.
I think this would be brilliant to resurrect this brand. Especially today. It’s so nostalgic and back to basics… his goal was to make your birthday your SPECIAL day. I get choked up just thinking about what it meant to hear that siren blaring, and the drums beating while the ZOO was headed towards your table on the stretcher thingy……and the entire restaurant sang ‘Happy Birthday’.
Long Live Farrell’s!!!!!
Isn’t there still a Farrell’s in North San Diego County? We drove down there 3 years ago & had a blast.
Many years ago my family went to Sea World and spent the night in the hotel circle. There was a Farrells somewhere off Fletcher parkway. It was just like the one on Beach blvd. If that can be re-created, I’d be there in a hurry.
I remember Farrell’s on Tustin in Orange. The Pig’s Trough was always way too big, but it was fun to watch ice cream being served on a stretcher by a crew running up and down the restaurant with a blaring siren.
Hello Bloggers,
This is Mike Fleming, CEO of Parlour Enterprises. I appreciate the comments both positive and …ugh…sceptical.
Yes Troy, we were featured in a 2003 article in the Register and at the time had plans to open 4 Farrell’s in OC. We then got into a 5 year legal battle which stopped us in our tracks. Legally during that time, we couldn’t move.
Just a few weeks ago, we finally obtained the license and trademark rights to finally bring Farrell’s back. We plan to bring back Farrell’s like it was in the past. Bob Farrell, who founded Farrell’s in 1963 is not only our good friend and mentor but is also an advisor.
And Troy, like the songs says, “nothin’s going to stop us now!”
We hope you Farrell’s fans will be ready to once again enjoy your favorites from the past like the Pig’s Trough, Black and White, Nutty Nuttly and of course, The Zoo.
Looking forward to meeting all of you!
Mike Fleming
CEO
Parlour Enterprises Inc
Parlour4Fun@aol.com
I just want to say that I was talking about Farrell’s to with co-workers and really remembered some happy times.
that whole gigantic serving of ice cream on a stretcher with sirens blaring was amazing.
Please bring it back to San Jose.
All of our TGIF’s have closed down, why not occupy those places? They already have the red and white stripes, just bring the ice cream.
I am so happy to hear that you guys are planning to bring back Farrell’s! I have nothing but fond memories of my time there as a child. I have two children of my own and would love for them to enjoy some good old fashioned fun. They love ice cream and candy (imagine that!), so I know they’ll enjoy it as much as I did.
I wish you much success in your planned expansion(s) - I KNOW you will do well.
Best of Luck - Cheryl
I grew up in St Petersburg, FL and there was nothing like Farrell’s!
I will definitely take my kids there! As will a million other middle-aged kids
Please expand to Florida as soon as possible.
Thank you.
Hey, I was just remembering that when I first met my husband in 1972 he and his friend talked about owning a Farrell’s restaurant. But then I came on the scene and it went away. We used to make up reasons to go! However, when my daughter turned 2 we had a big Farrell’s party in the Cerritos Mall! She is now all grown up and married, living in Idaho. So she wants to be here on the grand opening day with our grandkids. She is very excited. Please let me know of the grand opening day so I can let her know.
> It was like a “Farrell’s Lite” after some budget cuts and some sloppy management.
Say it ain’t so Mike!
Do it right. Don’t go cheap on us and I won’t complain about the (justifiably) high prices.
Ooooh! I hope so! My high school youth group used to go to one in Westminster or Huntington (Beach Blvd in any case) maybe once a month and it was quite the experience. Boy how I’d love to take my kids there for a read Farrell’s experience! Bring it on!!
Getting a Zoo on my birthday and hoping one day I’d be old enough to get a Trough….brings tears to my eyes! I grew up in Tempe, AZ and they had one either there or Phoenix (can’t remember which). I still have my little plastic animals from the Zoo, although a couple have lost some limbs.
I hope I can take my own 5-year-old to one so he can over-indulge in ice-cream!
I remember spending many birthdays back in the 70’s at Farrells! I’m now 40 years old and looking forward to spending my next! Looking at the pictures brought back many great memories. Can’t wait!.
Troy, you are spot on — of course — with your Farrell’s history. I added the link to our previous Farrell’s coverage — a 2005 story.
As Mike Fleming stated (thanks, Mike) the legal battle is over and the plan is get one open in O.C. ini 2009. Hopefully, they can meet that goal.
http://www.ocregister.com/ocregister/money/yourcounty/article_712252.php
Panchita Jones, I remember Farrells in Phoenix, AZ when I was a child too! I believe the one we always celebrated at was on E. Thomas Road in Scottsdale or Phoenix (probably right on the border between the two cities). There was also one at Metrocenter in Phoenix near the ice skating. I remember those plastic zoo animals and the scary stretcher the brought out the ice cream on. I remember being surprised the very first time I went there. I can’t wait to take my children there either. My husband remembers Farrells as a kid too. I hope they open one in south O.C. because that’s where I live!!
I am happy to hear they are bringing Farrell’s back. I have alot of
happy memories of taking my family to Farrell’s.
It is true we are in a bad economy, but ice cream is something that
is a treat and for the most part affordable. Also, a lift to the moral,
to go into a fun ice cream store with their family
I spent many birthdays at Farrell’s in Riverside. The big drum they played sort of freaked me out, but the food, ice cream and ambiance kept us coming back. Hooray!
I can’t wait to hear the locations, any news on this? The block would be neat. I remember the one in Santa Ana, I think it was on 17th. I used to love the costumes. Thanks for commented Mr. Fleming!! Nice to clear up everything for the skeptics.
Hope you are in or near Tustin soon. I brought my kids to Farrell’s in the Valley during the 70’s. Love to take my grandchildren now.
It was THE hangout after a Friday Night football game! We went to the one in HB on Beach Blvd. My kids have heard me talk about it for years . . . about how we would order the Pig’s Trough and we just couldnt get those darned bananas down . . . so we’d wrap them in our napkins and flush them down the toilet in the restroom . . . VOILA! We’d get a blue ribbon! I still have my ribbons! Bring it on back!
Lot’s of good memories, when you finished the trough, you got a ribbon that said ” I made a pig of myself at Farrell”s.” Being the oldest of 7 kids, we had lot’s of birthdays, State College & Chapman in Fullerton. Let the Good Times Roll
Mike Fleming CEO Parlour Enterprises Inc. As an ice-cream connoisseur I think if Farrell’s is really planning a come back with Blue Bunny ice-cream consider them going out of business in a year or so. As for the concept, I loved the place, as for the ice-cream, use quality and not quantity especially if you want your business to remain for a long time. Blue Bunny ice-cream is horrible.
Ms Luna, I hate too correct you. Farrell’s was located on Tustin Street in the beautiful City of Orange and not on Tustin Avenue.
I JUST READ about Farrels making a comeback in southern Cal and just the name brings back fond memories of childhood in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
I remember all the ice cream concoctions including THE ZOO as well as something vaguely about reciting a few lines by memory in order to get something free…something like “FARRELS FABULOUS…” Do you know about the FARRELS “ICE CREAM MEMORY VERSE?”
JOHN P. VAN DE VRIES KOK
Glad to hear it! Farrell’s is a favorite of a lot of people!
Thank you Mr. Fleming for dropping in and giving us some more information! And as always, thanks go to the always fabulous Ms. Luna and her ability to round up the latest dish on the latest dishes.
That said, I’m still a bit skeptical, if only because I’m a huge Farrell’s fan and have been burned on this several times in the last half decade.
But if and when a real, live 1970’s-style Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour does show up in 21st century OC, you can bet I’ll be there! My big birthday thrill growing up was when the waitress would put the Pig’s Trough down in front of me and then when I finished it all she’d return with the blue ribbon that said “I MADE A PIG OF MYSELF AT FARRELL’S!” I wore those ribbons with pride, and I would love a shot at earning another one!
The only Farrell’s that I know to be still standing is the one in San Diego over in Scripps Ranch.
Great! Cannot wait. Farrell’s was fantastic. Great for families. I loved it as a kid. So much fun.
I recall many birthday’s at Farrell’s. The concept should work well despite the slowdown in the economy. Past research shows that ice cream parlours typically are unaffected by economic downturns (probably because when people get depressed, they seek out ice cream, hehe).
I remember the Farrell’s near CSUF (close to Builders Emporium, the early 70s version of Home Depot) and how they’d ring this siren and come rushing out with a stretcher. They’d dump the contents (confetti) on someone.
On a vist to New England, I visited an ice cream parlour called “Friendlies” that reminded me a lot of Farrell’s (same motif, same colours, etc.).
There was a plane crash involving a Farrell’s once, wasn’t there? No one else mentioned it and the article didn’t, so I’m wondering if I’m remembering the right place.
Wow, we were just talking about this the other day. We always went to the Farrell’s in Downey that was in the Stonewood Shopping Center. We spend many Firday nights celebrating after our High School football games. Would love to see one come to Orange/Anaheim Hills area. I would then be able to take my kids and my grandson. They would love it!
I’m skeptical of this, but not of the company’s ability to pull this off.
I’m wondering if today’s kids will accept the concept of “nostalgia.”
Today’s ADD/ADHD youngsters, who are surrounded by electronics 24/7, will get bored with the “Roaring 20s” theme in about 20 minutes. So little Max, Ashley, Zach, Montana, Sam or Dakota will ask if they can go sit in the back of the Hummer to watch a DVD or play their latest video game while mom and dad stay in the restaurant and remember their own youth.
Don’t see a lot of repeat business once the folks have their fill.
Bring back Farrell’s!! Bring them back to the city of Orange. I had birthdays of my own, and of my nieces, in the late 60’s through early 70’s spent there. I remember what I believe what was called the “Elephant Trough”, a giant tureen full of ice cream and toppings carried on a stretcher, being real tasty. It was also topped with many colored plastic animals that you could take home as keepsakes. One year, they actually dropped my birthday tureen on the floor, on their wacky way to the table (running through the restaurant with that stretcher, ringing bells and a siren). Most everyone I knew back then celebrated their birthdays there and as a kid you always hoped someone you knew would invite you to their birthday party there. Seem just like yesterday.
I can’t wait to make a pig of my self by eating a trough! My favorite Birthdays were Birthdays spent at Farrell’s in Fountain Valley.
This is great news! Farrell’s was a big part of my childhood, always a treat to go there. We went for birthday parties, with Indian Maidens, and when Mom & Dad wanted to give us a special treat. Remember the pig trough filled with ice cream? I sure do. I’ve told my kids a dozen times what a great place it was, I can’t wait until the one in Orange County opens so I can take them.
They should open in Orange, same location as before on Tustin Ave. There have been several restaurants trying to make it in that building since Farrell’s left, and none of them last more than a few years. That would be cool if Farrell’s reopened in the same spot!! I can see my kids going there after high school football games, first dates, etc., like I did when I was that age. It brings back memories.
Of course I remember Farrells! My only hope is that if they do try to make a comeback, they do it right. No half-way, no skimping. They have to go all the way, with quality products so that those of us who do remember are happy and the newbies will like it too. I really hope it happens this time, because I have so many great memories.
Wow all these comments and not one about Nancy. Cute pic, btw Nancy, you still look the same! Perhaps when Farrell’s comes back you can take another picture in the same pose. That would be funny =). I wasn’t around to experience Farrell’s the first time around, but it sounds like a lot of fun!
So excited to take my daughters when it opens. As a teenager in Orange ; in the late sixty’s and seventy’s we hung out at Farrell’s all the time. I’ve told our daughters many stories of times at Farrell’s, and how when we would finish a THOUGH, the server would pin a button on our shirt that said “I made a pig of myself at Farrell’s”. So much fun.
Thanks Farrells!!!
how about that zoo
Put in back in the same spot on TUSTIN Ave… Everything has flopped since it left… GOOD TIMES!!!!!!
My husband and I both grew up in Santa Ana and remember fondly Farrell’s. He remembers the monkey’s in the ice cream sundae. We were recently trying to tell our three children how fun it was and how sad we were when it closed.
Finally, something happy in the news
I hope they are a huge success when they bring them back. We recently got a Shakey’s which is another blast from the past. We are headed up to the Farrell’s in Santa Clarita for Thanksgiving. I’m realistic about what to expect though. We’ll hit Magic Mountain while we’re up there too. I’m just a big kid and want to have fun along with the little ones.
There is no longer one in San Diego. It closed about 3 years ago or so. I was headed down there and called for directions. They were closing that day! I used to go to the one in Orange after football games from Tustin.
I have to be the one for a reality check. My family went to Farrells in Orange several times a year, it was great. But, today with all the kids doing xbox, wi fi, sports etc, the 70’s were different times. Today, it will only attract kids under 6 and plus parents, who want to relive those great memories. I wish the company lots of luck but I dont think
with all the kids today can and are doing that Farrells will be a smashing success…
The wife and I always tell our kids how much fun it was going there as kids and would relish the opportunity to take them there also.
Yippee! I hope they still have The Zoo!!!!
I remember going to the Farrell’s on Tustin Ave in Orange. Funny, the building is still there and occupied by another retailer. I would buy the humungous jaw-breakers that I have ever seen! Go home and wrap it up in dish towels (not the bath towels) and crack it open with a hammer. Shards everywhere (if not carefully wrapped!)…those were the days. Then sometime before the 1990’s began it closed it doors.
Years ago, I heard there was one down in Carlsbad San Diego…is that one closed too? I really hope they decide to put a Farrell’s fairly centralized for everyone and not too far away. With a new marketing team and PR reps they will be able to update and upgrade their style but keeping with the “old” feel of how it was to us when we first visited it. I wish them the best of luck and I look forward to more info on their future location. 
Wow! I remember working at Farrells at the Springfield Mall in Springfield, VA when I was in high school. It was a great place to work and nothing beat seeing the kid’s faces light up when the siren began to wail and the drums began to beat as they watched their Zoo start to race around the restaurant (or the mall on a slow Sunday evening). I was fortunate enough to take my daughter to the Mira Mesa location shortly before they closed. I look forward to going back with her again. Keep us posted!
This is great news. I worked at Farrell’s and it had to be one of my fondest memories. Ran many a zoo, handed out many a pig trough ribbon and who could forget the “looney tunes” from the player piano. To this day if I mention Farrell’s to someone my age, they have the same fond memories.
Farrells was always a great place. My swim team would always go there after a meet to celebrate. My brother would always order the ‘Trough’ and see how fast he could eat it! I think it is still a great idea. Almost everybody loves ice cream and this would be a great addition to OC.
They’d need to bring it back with all the original details to make it work. They opened one in Temecula in 1999 and it closed a few years later - it was missing the nostalgia factor.
This is great news! I am 40-ish and would be happy to spend my next birthday at Farrell’s. I, too, have fond memories of the Orange location, the fun and upbeat atmosphere, The Zoo and Pig’s Trough. And yes, I’ve heard about Farrell’s return for years, but let’s be positivie that it will happen soon!
Wonderful!!!
I just hope they keep it authentic. I hope the player piano choices aren’t things like “the Lion King” and “Chariot’s of Fire” type dreck.
Keep it Old time Ragtime and Rinky Tink!
I was there when they were closing one of their ice cream parlors. They were selling their pewter plates for pennies. I think I bought them all. There were about 60 of them. They were great for serving sizzling steaks. I also bought all their gingerbread molding. I was building a Victorian at the time and used it on my back porch. I loved going to Ferrell’s. I hope they do come back.
I remember going to the Farrells on Beach as a kid and then as a teenager. I always got the trough. What scared me was when they ran around with the Zoo I was sure they were going to drop it on someone!! My kids now in there mid 20’s and older still remember going there also and we all can’t wait to return!
I remember going to the Farrell’s in Northridge as a kid in the 70’s. One time we were sitting at a table watching the people racing around the dining room with a Zoo. They actually dumped it!!! IT WAS CLASSIC!!. I remember telling my brothers and sister, “I’ll never forget this!” The funny thing was that I always wanted to see the people drop the zoo, and when it really happened it blew me away. I hope they get to bring back these restaurants
I used to love Farrell’s! It was THE place to go for your birthday. My fondest memory was when my dad finished “The Trough” and the waiter noticed the tray that was actually licked clean. LOL, suddenly we heard sirens and they made my dad stand up and announce to the entire restaurant, “I made a PIG of myself at Farrells”! LOL!
Now if only Shakey’s would start opening more restaurants in OC. they closed the Costa Mesa and Tustin locations :(((((
Yea!!!!!!!!
We had one of your ice cream shops in the Tri-Cities, Wa. (Kennewick, Washington,.) It was so popular for everyone- the young and the seniors!! We never understood why it closed when it was the hottest spot in the city to go to. We have missed you!! Please come back! Pasco, Wa. is the fastest growing city in Washington state right now. All new shopping in north Pasco along with residential housing continues to expand. The economic crunch hasn’t been felt here because of solid employment in the area. We have four seasons, wonderful people, lots of young folks. Please come bacK. We love high quality everything here. FARRELL’S CARNIVAL IN THE PARLOR WAS EVERY CHILD’S FANTASY~ no matter how old !
This is wonderful news !! We had a Farrell’s in our home town growing up (Downey) and now that I have nephews my family always talks about how we wish there was a Farrell’s around. I can’t wait for the new arrivals !!! I will definitely frequent the establishment. Good going, guys.
Hey vintage ice cream fans, the Thrifty brand is still around (did not go away with the demise of the drug store - was managed separately). Can be found in Right Aid drug stores and various other places. Eat one for me.
Wow, this is great!!!! My son in law and I were just talking about Farrell’s, and thinking about all the good times there. Please come back, I now have lots of grandkids to bring to your parlor!!
Diane
I can’t wait until I can go to Farrell’s again! My family and I used to go to the one in Escondido, until the day we pulled up and found that it had closed down. They used to have a little “satellite” location at the San Diego County Fair that we would go to during fair season, too. Man, when I was little I used to get freaked out when they would blow all the horns and whistles when it was someone’s B-day; I guess now I’ll be able to see if I’ve outgrown that
I remember the biggest Sundau Farrell’s had. It was called The Earthquake!
I used to go to the Farrell’s in Puente Hills, Ca.
I’m extatic to hear it’s returning!
OUTSTANDING!!!! That is all I can say about Farrell’s comming back to OC…. We have talked about it for years. We used to Love to go out for Ice Cream when they were here. Hey consider the New Location to be in the city of Los Alamitos or Seal Beach. We have a couple of new shoping centers going in around here. Rossmoor being one of them. Good Luck Hope to see you back soon….
Yah Finally!!
I can only hope that it is true! We met at Farrell’s when we both worked there, we have been married now for nearly 29 years. We have some of the greatest memories, it was the best place to work! Actually we happen to have original Tiffany Lamps and the original Farrell’s drum here at our home! Can’t Wait to take our kids and grand kids!
I can’t wait!! I remember going for all kinds of things when I was a kid in the Bay Area. The Earthquake and The Zoo were the massive things we always got. The little pink animals that were in The Zoo were things I always collected. I think I may still have an elephant or 2 in a box somewhere!
Well - I not only went there as a kid - I worked there in college!
It was in serious disrepair, and it was extremely hard to make a decent wage, when most people just got ice cream (they had food too)
but for fun - it was the best. We had an ex-Snow White performer from Disney - who sung like a real star.
And my fav tune on the piano was “It’s not unusual” by Tom Jones.
Now that I have kids - I hope the concept is done well - clean and with family style, affordable food too.
DON’T FORGET THE PENNY CANDY SHOP!!!
Enthusiasm notwithstanding, I’ll believe it when I see it.
Today’s customer is into healthy choices, not butterfat laden sugary desserts.
We’re not all pigs you know.
oh man this place was sooo fun yes yees make it very aunthentic NO nEW stuff otherwise ppl will be upset and disappointed OLD SCHOOL thats what the ppl remember and want again! Ya keep that old rag time music and everythng its what makes the place thats fuN! i love the sirens and the bells and the costumes it was FUN so dont make us have to write a bad blog on how disappointed we are make it ORIGINAL FARRELLS! k thanks old school rocks!
The Cerritos Mall had a Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor. Back in the 70’s the place was a good hang out after the HS football game. My friends and I would try to eat a pigs trough. If I remember right, that was huge banana split. However, I did not enjoy the brain freezes…lol
Farrell’s is in that same nostalgic category as Love’s BBQ, Bob’s Big Boy and Shakey’s Pizza for me - remembrances of a great childhood. I will be THRILLED to see this happen and will patronize often BUT - as others have said - don’t bother doing this unless the stores are true to the originals. DO NOT cheap out on details - the costumes, the piano, the candy counter, rows of miniature lights etc etc etc all must return or you will regret it later…best of luck to you and I’ll be looking for a central OC location in 2009!
My birthday is day after tomorrow … can you open one by then?
The Santa Ana one was on Memory Lane…so appropriate. Memory Lane was the Santa Ana side of Garden Grove Blvd. I worked at both the Santa Ana and Orange stores…great job!
Wahoo!!!
I used to love going to Ferrall’s and truly missed it when it closed so suddenly. Just in August, I found out while on Oahu that there were two Farrell’s there and had the good fortune to visit one of them and have a hot fudge nutty nutty and my wife had the tin roof. What great memories. I am excited about Farrell’s coming back. P.S. I discovered there is another location in San Diego in Miramar.
Break out the handlbar mustaches and four part harmony.
I just heard about this on the CBS news tonight and was so thrilled I immediately came here on the Internet to find out WHERE the next Farrells will be in South OC!!
I have always wished there was still one around that I could of taken my kids to when they were growing up. I remember my birthday parties there as a child and how much fun it was! I got to invite some of my friends and I remember the Zoo and all the different flavors and those plastic animals throughout! What great memories!!
I am so excited and cannot wait for this to come so that I can take my nieces, nephews and eventually when I become a grandmother someday.. I will be able to take my grandkids!
I also remember that after the “party” part all of us kids got to pick out a candy from the candy shop and I remember the “Dots” candies that are on sheets of paper!!
We sure need something like this these days!! Some good clean fun!!!
I can’t wait!;)
PINK
OMG…this would be WONDERFUL!! My husband and I talk about the possibility (or wishful thinking) of Ferrell’s coming back. We both have wonderful birthday memories from there. Whatever you do, I hope you don’t modernize it too much. The drum, sirens, and crazy ice cream, and the zoo are some of the main memories and those are what we would love our child to have an chance to experience. YES YES YES…DEFINITELY DO IT!!! But please please do not charge an arm and 3 legs just to have a birthday party.
Can’t wait, very excited about this!
[quote]David Says:
November 10th, 2008 at 4:50 am
The only Farrell’s that I know to be still standing is the one in San Diego over in Scripps Ranch.[/quote]
That San Diego location folded in 2004/2005………….the only one left is in the santa clarita area and it is a horrible representation of a Farrell’s………
I too will only believe it when I see it!
My friends and I used to go to the Farrell’s in the Whittwood shopping center in Whittier. The pig in the trough was always a joke on someone who was having a birthday.
This means we are going to have more fat people.
who cares? you people need to eat healthy, not eat cheap crap comfort food!
Two words….
Pig Trough!
We had one in Chicago back in the 70’s as well. Mmm, mmm good! Looking forward to their comeback.
I can hardly wait! I hope its EARLY 2009! I especially remember after the party going into the CANDY SHOP with the huge jaw breakers and rock candy….
For you health conscious folks warning us about getting fat.. relax! This is about nostalgia and having a fun time with family and friends. So you just stick to your wheat grass shots, and we’ll be enjoying our pig troughs!
This is wonderful I am so excited for Farrell’s to come back! I had my 6h Birthday Party at Farrell’s in Orange back around 1974. I can’t wait till I can have my little girl’s birthday at Farrell’s. I am so excited you have no idea!!!
THANK YOU FARRELL’S
I’m with Oink!
Eat healthy the rest of the year and pig out (trough and all) once in awhile.
When you eat healthy, eat healthy.
When you go out for dessert, have *dessert*. Low fat and fat free ice cream? What’s the point? *pffftt*
This is the best news I’ve had all day! I can’t wait to take my daughter to Farrell’s for Ice Cream and maybe a Birthday Party just like my parents did for me when I was a little girl as with a lot of other kids. This just tickles me to death!
I still have pictures of us kids back in the 70’s at Farrell’s and have the most sentimental memories of going here for any occasion with my family. I loved the food, ice cream sunday’s, candy shop and all of the commotion. I can’t wait to order the Zoo and have them beat the drum and run-a-muck around the restaurant.
THANK YOU FOR BRINGING BACK ONE OF MY FAVORITE PLACES!
can’t wait to have my birthday party there! Thank you for bringing America back to America!
Fascinating reading, with all these comments and memories of Farrell’s past. Can the new Farrell’s live up to expectations? Only time will tell. I have a promotional video of Farrell’s from 1974, that lamented the fact that society had become fast, plastic and everything now now now. That was part of what motivated Bob Farrell and Ken McCarthy to create Farrell’s. It’s not just the ice cream or candy, it is the experience. I have heard stories from former Farrell’s employees and managers in Seattle talking about their “Keystone cop” skits that they would perform with a strobe light to entertain the customers.
Today’s kids are not that much different from the children of 30 years ago - they need to be entertained. The difference is that now there are video games and cell phones that have supplanted the human element to the equation. I’ve watched kids become mesmerized at Japanese restaurants with the Teppanyaki-style cooking. I think there is a significant opportunity for Farrell’s to bring these elements back to the ice cream parlour. Exhibition-style food and sundae preparation, carnival-barking waiters and waitresses (not just “servers”) wearing period costumes (not uniforms), and make the experience as if one walked through the front door through a time portal.
Farrell’s can succeed if it does not relegate itself to being an arcade concession. Finally, while Bob Farrell is synonymous with Farrell’s, it was Ken McCarthy who developed the ice cream sundaes and even created the recipes for the Farrell’s ice cream blend that was used in parlours from 1965 until Marriott converted to commercial-grade ice cream in 1979. I am fortunate to have a copy of those recipes…
I loved this place as a child of the 70’s too! I loved getting stuffed on ice cream and drooling over the candy in the back…
I would take my kids there the night it opened!
And whoever brought up Loves restaurant..I miss that one too!!!!! They seriously made the best chicken.
OOOH wow… Im so excited.. I now have two kids of my own and every time time we drive by the old one in motebello I tell them about it. Watch out Chuck E chesse the OG fun house is going back… CANT WAIT….
Lets wish them success. I hope that our kids will like it as much as we did. One note of caution though: They have redone Bob’s Big Boy and it is not the same. We went to one in Temecula and other than the Big Boy the interior and food was not the same and it was overpriced considering the quality. I know we won’t return their again. It is not like it was when we were kids.
WOW! Bring Farrell’s back. I used to work at the one in Orange in the early ’80’s and I will tell you this. All the employees wanted to work the weekend (Fri, Sat.) night shifts and try to trade with other employees just because of the atmosphere. I loved working there and I always tell my kids about this place. I hope they bring it back the way it used to be.
YES! My childhood dreams are running back to me!!! YES!
What a great high school job that was! There were a few of us from SPHS that worked at the Whittwood location at the same time and we had fun!
Hey Frank Licata, do you still do the Elvis impressions?
I was able to take my older kids to Farrell’s before they closed down so they were able to experience the clown sundae!
I believe there is still a Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor in San Diego. I have visited that establishment a few times. When I was a child, my family and my Camp Fire group would frequent the Cerritos Mall Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor. I remember how sad my sisters and I were when the Cerritos location closed. A few years ago there was a rumor going around Orange County that a Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor would be constructed at “The Block” in the city of Orange. Many individuals, young and old, were very pleased about this hope. Unfortunately, as of yet, there is not a Farrells at “The Block.” Anyone who has ever visited Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor has passed down Farrells stories to their children. A generation of people, most who have never visited a Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlor, is anticipating the opening of new ice cream parlors. I just hope that the establishments will do well in this current fragile economy. Only with the support of past, present, and future fans will Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlors sustain success through these rough times. The United States’ economy will become robust again thus, creating a new saga of Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlors.
My mom used to take me to Farrell’s in Pasadena for a caramel sundae as a treat when I got straight A’s. What an incentive! They had the best caramel topping I’ve ever tasted. I hope we can buy their original caramel topping over the internet. Sure would make my Christmas shopping easy!
I echo all the nostalic comments, BUT have to say that the service went down hill for years and. Jim’s post about them not substituting ice cream for an alergic kid reminded me about why my mom and many parents stopped taking us to Farrells. I gave it another try in high school when I could drive myself there, and the service and attitude and selection had deteriorated even further.
Mike (Fleming), before coming back you better invest heavily in training employees to accomodate customers…otherwise it will be “one and done” for most of us…
I grew up in San Diego. It was a tradition to go to Farrell’s after the HS football games. I hope Farrell’s will come back!
Wow!!! I just heard about this from a friend. We both worked at the La Mesa, Ca store. It was the best job I ever had as a teen and I would like to see them come back for my grand kids. Pernicanno’s Pizza, Shakey’s, and Farrell’s were San Diego landmarks in the 60’s and 70’s. I hope there are plans to open a store in San Diego.
I still have an old Polaroid on my mirror from my 4th birthday party at Farrell’s, I think at the Cerritos location. Wow, I’m feeling some serious nostalgia a mere month before my 30th birthday. How fun would it be to have a retro birthday party there now?
I am so excited! I’ve been waiting for this for a long time. We always went to the one in Whittier back in the day (1970’s). Farrell’s was my father’s ultimate place (next to Disneyland) to spend some quality family time togther. My father has since passed, but Farrell’s brings such wonderful memories of such a wonderful person. I can’t wait to introduce my daughter (who will be 2 this December) to my father’s favorite place. I know she will love it. We will definately be celebrating her 3rd birthday there! Can’t wait!
Farrell’s at the Montclair plaza, was my first job when I turned 16. I loved going there when I was younger and couldn’t wait to work there. After busing tables for 3 months I was promoted to weekend party clown for the birthday parties. I loved working for this company. Not to mention all the ice cream you got to eat. Oh, did I mention I gained about 10 lbs? Stay away from the pig troughs. I am now 42 so maybe my 17 year old could get a job there. hehehe
I LOVE IT BUT YOU BETTER DO MORE THAN JUST UPDATE IT A LITTLE — MEMORIES WILL BRING ME ONCE BUT THE FOOD, FUN, ICE CREAM AND STYLE BETTER BE UP TO THE YEAR 2008 OR ONCE IS ALL I WILL VISIT. YOU HAVE TO DO MORE THAN JUST A RETREAD.
BUT MAKE IT WORK AND I’LL BE BACK FOR LIFE. WE ALL MISS THE OLD DAYS, BUT THEY NEED TO BE BETTER THAN THEY ACTUALLY WERE TO MEET THE HIGH STANDARDS OF OUR MEMORIES.
I was so excited to see Farrells is returning. We used to go to the Farrells in Downey at Stonewood Shopping center. That was a favorite place after softball games and for birthdays, good times! I worked there in high school also. I remember the old fashioned candy jawbreakers, rock candy sticks, long licorice ropes. It a fun place, Good memories…I wish them well and look forward to taking my son there. Put one close to Huntington Beach! We need a new fun family place, Maybe Bella Terra?!
This is so exciting!!! The Whittier location at the former Whittwood Mall, right next the the Whittwood Theater. We used to go there for the birthdays of my 3 brothers and myself and after Saturday afternoon matinees at the theater next door.
I remember the big claim-to-fame this Farrell’s location had was when the Partridge Family made a publicity appearance. Oh man, this story and most of the readers comments brings back great childhood memories! When they open up again we will definitely be there!
Wow! What great news! Our family went there a lot to celebrate different occasions. I even remember having my 16th birthday party at the one on Beach Blvd. And lots of Friday night with the other band geeks after football! Hope it returns to HB!
I worked the fountain at the Santa Ana store and we would kiss the girls that were celebrating birthdays (”16 years old and never been kissed…right!). That’s how I met and dated Laurie.
I grew up in Whittier, and I remember the one at Whitwood Mall. Our dad would take us there for lunch after a movie in the theater next door. I remember the Green River drink. Of course, a trip to Farrell’s was not complete unless you had a trip to the candy room afterwards! My parents would tell us how much we could spend, and you made your decision carefully!
Not long ago I went to the one in San Diego and was very disappointed. It was like a Denny’s with black, white, and red decor. I hope they bring it back, and, like many other people, strongly suggest they bring it back with a higher end ice cream. Blue Bunny or Thrifty just won’t cut it!
Would love to bring this back to Seattle, Washington…how would we get in touch with corporate to see about a franchise???
I found this site doing a search for Farrell’s because I happened to be talking to my Mom on the phone and we were reminiscing about places we used to go to when I was growing up and for some random reason I remembered Farrell’s… hadn’t even thought of it for many years. I am 40 and grew up in Silverdale, WA. Farrell’s was definitely a kind of mythical place, partly because I think the closest one to us was in Tacoma, WA, about a 45-60 min drive, where we used to go a few times a year for back-to-school and other shopping at the Tacoma Mall. Not sure if the Farrell’s was near there, but do remember going a few times, once or twice for some friend’s birthday… what I remember was being dazzled by the “show”, the costumes, the drums, etc. The only thing I can compare to it was Shakey’s Pizza, another chain that fell on hard times, and that was more sedate, though I used to love the old Laurel & Hardy movies they showed!
Farrell’s was my first real job world be great to see it back again.
Great! I use to go to the one in Torrance California in the 70’s. I do not live in Calif anymore but a couple of years ago during a vacation, my sister/brother inlaw drove the hour to Santa Clarita for my 2 young children to have the experience. They ordered a trough and was able to finish it. They had a blast and we took many pics for the memories. The staff was great and it wasn’t like the place in Torrance but it was fun. They came home and told their friends of the trip. Hopefully we will visit again one of the new shops.
I have one of their Farrell lights (my last name is Farrell) we got from store in New Jersey. My dad gave it to me. We have had it all these years.
Thank you all very much for your comments. We are overwhelmed by how much Farrell’s means to so many people. I share many of your stories growing up in Chino going to the store in Montclair CA. My business partner, Mike Fleming, and I recently shared your comments with Bob Farrell so thank you. We do want to bring Farrell’s back, better than before. This kind of form truly helps us to understand what people remember. If you have a certain memory that you want to make sure we include, please send me an email or visit our web site. Email: pkramer2@cox.net
Thank you again. We will NOT let you down.
Paul Kramer, President, Parlour Enterprises
I loooooved Farrells, both as a customer and as an employee and I’m ecstatic you’re bringing it back! I remember the long lines of people especially on Friday and Saturday nights tapping their toes to the music while exiting to pay their check, winding along the old -fashioned candy aisle. It was a super high energy place! I STILL have my old name badge and arm garter; remember you could buy those? I can hear that old player piano now and the siren going off…CLEAR THE AISLE- HERE COMES A “SAN DIEGO ZOO”!
GOOD TIMES!!!!!
I remember the many adventures my friends would have at the sacramento locations Please tell me there will be one here again, so my children can share the experience
I used to go to the one in The Staten Island Mall ! Time Out (video arcade) was directly across from Farrell’s. It was a great place to hang out as a kid. Visited the rock recently and went to the SI Mall and now it’s a great place to get car-jacked. I miss the old days !
I was just telling my nephew about Farrells and when I wanted to find some info I ended up here! I remember Farrells - it was always a fun place to go - silly kind of innocent fun - certainly we could use more of that in these days….. I hope to see you soon back in “the Valley” - where I no longer live but often visit!
I am somewhat happy to hear that Farrell’s may be making a comeback, but so far it sounds like only California is in the plans. I’m from Portland, OR, the original home of Farrell’s. How can you make a comeback and not open a location in your original city????? Come back to Portland! I loved birthdays and ice cream there as a kid, and as a teen, it was a fun place to go for burgers and fries after hs football games. Lots of happy memories of Farrell’s - but hearing another state may soon be peppered with them does little to cheer those of us in Farrell’s original home!
To go to Farrel’s when we were young was like a little Disneyland trip. I know all my friends are awaiting their return. Hurry up! Sincerely, Ted Molina (Arcadia, CA)
The Farrell’s in Riverside was THE place for birthdays as a kid in the 1970s and 1980s (with a visit to nearby Castle Park afterward).
As a few others have stated, don’t forget the candy store! If done too cheaply, the nostalgia-oriented traffic will fall off fast. But if the atmosphere and ice cream can come near to the original as possible (i.e., pre-Marriott days), with necessary updates, then a new generation will grow to love the place as we did.
I had tears in my eyes reading this news. I have found memories and can’t wait to take my teenage boys!!!!! Chuck e cheese bite this!!!!! I will have to fly all the way back home but I indeed will be there to show my children a past time that they will one day be able to take their children to. I just hope the midwest can embrace this wonderful ideal and bring it close to my home……I would love to find out how to launch the ideal here when you all get statred….thank you…in this trying and hard times…you put a smile back on my face…peace and good luck!!!!
I was thrilled when I read this article. I have fond memories of the Farrell’s in HB on Beach, which we went to from time to time, but my favorite memories are from the Escondido location. My mom and I attended a summer camp every year in Julian, and the Escondido store was right on the way home. We would meet up with other camp staffers at the Farrell’s as kind of a last camp hurrah before heading home to “normal” life. I always got the Tin Roof with no whipped cream, but did branch out once for the Pig’s Trough.
I’m also noticing that the other large sundae besides the Zoo (which *must* have lots of plastic animals) seems to have had different names in different locations. I’m remembering the Matterhorn, probably in deference to the Disneyland attraction, and others mention the Earthquake, which I don’t remember at all.
While I don’t live in So.Cal. anymore, I’d be willing to bring my kids back just for the memories. Keep the publicity going nationwide - I’m sure I’m not the only former Californian who would come back in a heartbeat for a true Farrell’s experience.
We lived very near the one in Santa Ana, and how we loved it! I was always so sorry I couldn’t share this with my kids, who are now about grown. Please bring it back! I unfortunately live in Seattle area, please think about bringing a Farrell’s to that area! There isn’t a single decent soda fountain anywhere. Never mind the weather: if you bring back Farrell’s as it was, people will come. Remember the Trough? Still have the ribbons!
Hello! I used to go to the Farrell’s in the Staten Island Mall about 20 years ago! I have great memories of that place and I am glad that they are bringing it back !!
YEAH !!! We were just sitting at dinner telling our daughter about really cool places when we were kids and both my husbband and I said ferrells so I jumped on line to see are there any left was I happy to see that one day my daughter might get to go to ferrells or at least take her kids there. We are on the east coast so I know it may be a while but please don’t forget us. We love ice cream any kind in the south east.
Oh my God!!!! My birthday dreams have come true!! I remember driving through a blizzard to get home from my sixth birthday celebration at Farrell’s Portland. I can hardly wait to have a party there again, needless to say a Zoo!!!( I’m tempted to go there for my birthday next week but if not, I’ll start planning for next year!
I went to Farrell’s after the movies down in San Diego - Fashion Valley almost every week or so back in the 70’s. I’m in my 40’s and we still remember the time we got kicked out for having an ice fight. oops. I had zoo parties for my babies in the early 90’s. My kids are turning 18 now and we are so excited. My daughter wants to throw a zoo party for her girlfriend. I live in Temecula, CA. Please tell me that there is at least one restaurant open now in So. Calif. We are so excited!!
My favorite was always the Tin Roof sundae. Bring it on!!
Wheel three, split two, add a Gibson. Although never a customer in a Farrells, those of us who learned our first business lessons from Mr. Farrell and and his exceptional staff of store managers have wonderful, fun, memories for a life time. I still have the Farrells Short Course in Human Relations plaque on the wall in my office. My wife and I met at the Farrells in Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, Illinois, she was a cashier and I was a dishwasher. We will be married 32 years in June ‘09. Farrells was, and I hope will be again a first class training ground on how to provide true customer service as well as sound principles and ethics to live your life by.
I was awakened by my daughter this morning she said, “Road Trip”. We are going to travel 500 miles to go to Farrell’s Ice-Cream Parlor. We used to go there for Birthday’s for my children or friends Birthdays. The one I will never forget is the, ” ZOO.” We will never forget the FUN we had there with all of our friends and their children, and we were a BIG group.
We called our self’s the Sunnyvale Irregular’s The Farrell’s we went to was near South Mary Ave. and Fremont Ave. in Sunnyvale, Ca. It doesn’t matter what age we our we all need to get out with our friends and children and have a GOOD TIME and have some GOOD ICE-CREAM “BRING IT BACK “. They always had the BEST customer service.
OK I am beside myself! As a child, I went to Farrells on the East Coast in Springfield, VA and I still have my hat too! I was wanting to celebrate my “big” birthday and googled to find this info-so, I am willing to fly across country to go to Farrells in CA if that’s what I have to do.
Also, would love to get one opened on the East Coast-so many happy memories things you can’t re-create , but if someone really gets to the heart of what made it so great I’m sure it had alot to do with management that cared for people and service first and hired and kept staff happy to work there which all conveyed to the patrons and the fun for everyone! The economy is bad, but some things that bring joy will thrive-in bad times you need to laugh to know you’re still alive.
Hey, there is two Farrell’s in Hawaii….
I have sooooo many memories of Ferrel’s in Huntington Beach. The noise, the laughter the curiosity of who will finish the “Earthquake”. Ferrell’s defines what it was like to be a kid. I can’t wait to introduce it to my 2 sons.
I PRAY they bring one to the Bay Area. The memories from my childhood are overwhelming and I would LOVE to take both my 7 and 17yr old there for the full experience with their friends.
‘If you build it, they will come’!
Hey, We loved Farrells for birthday parties here in Michigan! Please come back!
I have nothing but fond memories of Farrell’s. One of my biggest regrets in this age of waning Trick or Treating, fading traditions, hectic schedules, and mounting stress for kids and parents alike, is not being able to share some of my favorite simple joys of childhood with my own kids.
I think this is not only a low-risk move, but a BRILLIANT one! Enough time has passed that the few (if any) less-than-ideal memories of the brand have long been forgotten, and all other memories have faded into glorious, sepia-toned nostalgia. With the econemy in the shape it is, people long for an attachment to simpler times and to relive the “warm fuzzies” of their youth.
My only hope is that they don’t “update” too much. As a child growing up in the late 70’s and early 80’s I ADORED the vibe of the Roaring Twenties that Farrell’s had assumed. Every restaurant these days, even those with a retro vibe, have a tendency to pander to the ubercool, overconnected, and ‘iEverything’ nature of our current society. Farrell’s, for me, was all about the atmosphere of old-time simplicity. As I recall, the one we frequented in my childhood incorporated two or three modern video games into their collection of vintage-style ‘Penny Arcade’ machines, and that was about the extent of the visable new technology. To be honest, I’d be reticent even to have Wi-Fi access, though that seems to be a given for any new business these days. You may not grab the apathetic teen crowd on their own, but the parents will come in droves with any kids they can still shove in the car.
Bravo, Mr. Kramer & Mr. Farrell! I EAGERLY await the chain to spread back to Michigan!
Farrell’s was my location of choice for birthday’s in the 1970’s when I was 5-12yrs old.
I have often had the, “what happened to Farrell’s” conversation with friends. Anyone I know who has had experience with Farrell’s has nothing, but positive things to say about it…
My 1 year old will be very excited. If all goes well, by the time he would want to go, there will be a Farrell’s near us!
Awwww the memories. My family and I would celebrate birthday parties for us kids at Farrell’s in Riverside. Tradition would be to order lunch, and then ” The Zoo” which you may know was the silver punch bowl with 23 scoops of assorted Ice Creams with syrup, whipped cream and nuts. And don’t forget the tiny colored plastic assorted animals ( I fought for the red monkeys with the loopy tails). The two parlor dressed guys would run around the restaunt with the sirens and bells ringing and brought it to your table and sung you a happy birthday song with all the other wait staff. My brother would also eat the ” pigs trough” which would yield a free Large Jaw breaker if you could finish it. I would be so jealous of the hugh Jawbreaker, cuz he would make it last for weeks. After the meal we would adjourn to the Candy / gift store and pick out some old fashioned candy sticks. I loved the Cherry ones. It was a very happy place to celebrate your birthday! There would definately have to be some happy training for the teens of today. The drama theatre students would be the best suited for employees! Great Memories! I hope they come back!
Oh m y gosh!! I would love to have Farrells back!! Nothing but fantastic memories about that place! The siren, the big drum! Oh what a place!
Farrell’s was a huge part of growing up. From the “Zoo” ice cream parties when I was a kid to the fries and shakes as a teen, we need Farrell’s back in our lives. It was a great place back than and needs to come back.
I am so happy about this comeback so that we can hope to see many more of the restaurants all over the country! I visited Farrells in San Diego for many birthdays as a kid in the 70’s. I am planning on taking my little boy for his 1st birthday to Farrells in April and can’t wait to snap his picture with his clown sundae!
I worked at 7 Farrell’s locations in SoCal, as a fountain man (with a little kitchen help thrown in), server and manager. Just to clear up a couple of things, the Farrell’s in SoCal were originally franchised by Arden-Mayfair. The also ran a diary (Arden diary products) and a supermarket chain (Mayfair Markets), and used their ice cream. When Marriott bought the concept from Bob, they went around the country buying up as many franchises as they could. (There were few hold outs, San Diego and Hawai’i being two.)
With Marriott came a couple of supplier and organizational changes. We changed to Adohr Dairy products, owned by Southland Corp., those nice people that brought you 7-11. Later came the change to Thrifty Ice Cream. As a lifelong ice cream lover, the Thrifty brand isn’t bad ice cream. It may not have the butterfat content of some gourmet ice creams, but when you’re dealing in quantity, stability is an important quality, too.
There were only two really bad moves by Marriott. One was changing the menu from the classic newsprint style and going with a plastic, full color menu. The second was selling Farrell’s to an “investment group.”
For those who recall the decline in product and service in the 80’s, I will lay the fault at the ownership who managed FROM the bottom line instead of TO the bottom line. Instead of looking for ways to improve, or at least maintain, Farrell’s quality, the took every opportunity to cut costs, including cutting staff (no more busboys), using lower quality products, and generally losing focus with what Bob and Ken had set up. Then there was the concept change debacle: Taking out the player pianos, replacing them with a jukebox and changing the uniform to short-sleeve rugby shirts and visors. BIG mistake.
I also appreciate Paul and Michael coming here to acknowledge the comments. Guys, just be sure you listen! :>) Good food, good service.
Finally, to the health freaks. Yes, I need to drop a few pounds, and being over fifty requires me to change some habits. but, please, don;t rain on our parade. Everything in moderation, right? Oh, and no one is holding a gun to your head and forcing you to go to Farrell’s. In fact, with you at home munching granola and celery sticks there will be more seats for the ice cream fans!
Making a comeback in California is terrific, however I live in Ky. Any chance of reviving the old Oxmoor Center location in Louisville, Ky?
I looked at the menu and was disappointed that they left off their Rueben sandwich, apple pandowdy, and the tough. But, I was glad that they kept the BLT and the volcano. But, the next time I come out to California I will be looking for them, since I doubt they are coming to Memphis anytime soon.
I was just talking about farrell”s the other day.It was my farvoite palce in the whole world to eat as a little girl .I know america still feels the same way about it today as they did yesterday.We all want are farrells back and soon .I would love to open one where I live in Oregon people would go crazy.To date there has never been another resturant that could compare.It had so much to offer and all the right stuff. I love it
I’ll add another vote to bring Farrells’s back to it’s original home in Portland, OR. It makes me so sad to see the lot it was built on now occupied with a tall building of condos. I have pictures of my kids in highchairs at the booth in Farrell’s enjoying the sundaes. Who can forget the FREE birthday sundaes? Now my kids have children and I would LOVE to bring them to Farrell’s for the wonderful experience. My brother even celebrated his 21st birthday there to the comment of someone in Farrell’s of “why are you here.” Well, Farrell’s was worth the experience! Please consider Portland, OR!!!
GREAT!!! All the kids in my neighborhood would pile in the back of several station wagons and go to Farrell’s at Cumberland Mall (just outside of Atlanta, GA). Hopefully someone will bring a franchise back to the Atlanta area so my kids can enjoy the memories.
Hooray!!! Farrell’s is making a comeback! It’s not often you can say just one word that stirs so many happy memories & nostalgia for so many. I can’t wait to take my family and create many more new memories! Please stay true to the original, it was fantastic and I am certain it will be again!!!
I absolutely LOVED Farrell’s as a kid. I would love to share the Farrell’s experience with my daughters. I grew up going to the Farrell’s at Brookwood Villiage in Birmingham , AL and now live in Chattanooga,TN. I just hope we get a few Farrell’s out here in the south east.
Either me or my younger sister had a birthday at Farrells in Orange back in the 80’s. I remember the drum and the huge sundae. It is nice to see everything old is new again.
Oh my God! This so made my day! Love it!!!! Must have the Zoo! I’m having my 36th Birthday party here for sure!!!
I loved farrells as a kid and all thru high school, but I live in Washington State, soooo please bring one back here. I would love to take my kids to one !!
denise
When are you bringing Farrell’s back to Northern VA?!?!
I am so excited. We were just talking about Farrells a few days ago and about how we miss it so much. So many great memories of going there as a kid. I can’t wait to take my 3 kids there. YEAH!
This is GREAT news…..This is what we need more of.
Great atmosphere for kids, teens, and adults.
Good clean FUN!!!!
This is great to here!! i think they should kick El Pollo Inka out in Torrance and put Farrell’s back in there.
What a great idea… Brings back my childhood memories.. Can’t wait to order a Zoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I still have a collection of about 18 ribbons each earned by eating an entire Pig’s Trough. i was only too proud to don a plastic pig snout and receive my award!
I used to love walking through the candy store after eating a tough and buying the biggest jaw breaker they had.
Bring on the candy called ZOTS and the ice cream served in a Pig Trough. I MADE A PIG OF MYSELF AT FARRELLS!
When I was 14 I began working at Ham’s Ice Cream in Lynwood Ca, Some nights we would clean, close up the store then race over to Farrell’s in Downey that was in the Stonewood Shopping Center.
We always felt funny sitting there in our pink ice cream uniforms eating Farrell’s Ice Cream. I still have my collection of “Pig” ribbons.
Can’t wait to take my kids.
I’m interested in find out the names of the two men who owned Ham’s Ice Cream. A place that was a shake shop back there in the 50’s and even later. You got your shake, but don’t suck it through a straw, use the spoon for fear of getting your brains sucked out of your head. A place that was in Lynwood on Lynwood and was across the street from my Dad’s and his two brothers Machine Shop. I remember the boat store, the radiator place and a place that rebuilt Water Pumps. On Long Beach, not to far away, was the Sears Store. Either there or on Soto or in Buena Park. There at Ham’s Ice Cream they even made their own ice cream and they had a shack that was called the Grasshopper and if you could drink the whole thing you would get another one for free. Love ladies who would serve you who were close to the ages of your mother or grandmothers. A place you could sit and put a nickle in the machine at where you were sitting and pick out what song you wanted to listen to. Oh, the memories are better than what most have ever heard who haven’t gotten to their 41st birthday yet. Ya, I remember Harvey’s and allot of other places places back then. You might remember on Rosecrans in Bellflower a place where you could go in and get a meal. Saw dust on the floor and spitoons still for use. If you wanted to get a Roy Rogers or a Dale Evansons you could just walk right up and put your foot on the rail and say, “Hey, how about a Shirley Temple?” What do you remember, Scott
I remember Farrells when I was young. There was only one in Columbus, Ohio, at least that is the way it seemed. i still remember my brother eating the whole “pigs trough” he got the ribbon and everything. I loves Farrells and it was an extremely sad day when they closed! Any plans on coming back to Columbus, Ohio?
I was hoping for Kansas. “Give’em The Pickle”!
SEATTLE !
PLEASE !
LONG BEACH……I’m just sayin
How about Northern California/SF Bay Area?
We used to go to Farrells in Columbus, Ohio..What a blast!
We’ve told the grandkids about it and they feel, that they missed out.
Come to Indianaopolis, In next!!
Great memories of the pig trough, too.
Almost 34 years ago when I was pregnant with my son, my husband and I would go to the Farrell’s in East Bay (Oakland, CA area) and I would order the PREGNANT BANANA SPLIT where dill pickles would be substituted for the bananas. I loved to watch the faces of people who watched me eat this. Now after all these years, we are getting the first Farrells in Mission Viejo, CA only about 5 miles from our house. Now we will have the pleasure of taking our grandkids there.
I can remember the ZOO for our children’s birthday parties and PLEASE promise that the old fashion candy counter will be coming back also.
Wow that was a hangout when I was in High School 36 years ago in Huntington Beach Ca. Bring it back but put one in the Inland Empire
Would people consider me crazy if I had my 50th birthday party at Farrells? Who could resist ordering a pig’s trough to celebrate half a century of life!
Can’t wait to be able to walk into a Farrell’s again. I was one of the original employees in Torrance, CA, and LOVED working there. PLEASE consider Torrance area for another opening! You won’t be sorry!
Please open again in NY. I visited the SI one too many time to remember. I remember going very often, people went after any night out from 1st dates, Dance Recitals to Graduations….I miss it and we need some old time fun back. Westchester County NY would be a great location as there is disposable money as well as people always going out. The cold stone always has a line out the door (even in the winter). Please come back to NY. : )
I was first introduced to Farrell’s when friends took me to the original Farrell’s in Portland, Oregon, in 1965. In early 1966, I took my girl friend there on a date. We were married later that year. We have been happily married for 42, soon to be 43 years. I remember successfully finishing my first Pig Trough, and getting a ribbon for an award. I stuck it on the dashboard of my car, where it remained for several years. In those days, if business got slow, one of the employees would just go out on the sidewalk in front of the store and beat the drum. (drumming up business), It always seemed to work, because in just a few minutes the place would be crowded. Just mentioning the name Farrell’s brings back wonderful memories. I hope they don’t sacrifice that wonderful ambience when as they bring Farrell’s back. I wish them luck, and by the way, we would love to have Farrell’s back here in Portland. I’ll be listening for the beat of the drum.
Actually, to the person “correcting” someone above, Farrell’s was in fact on Tustin Ave., and not on Tustin St. When it closed, it was replaced by Spoons, and has since went through several transformations as various All-you-can-eat Chinese food joints. The Tustin Ave. location is a staple of my childhood memories; we were there countless times as kids, and looking through old photo albums tonight prompted me to search and come across this page. I’m thrilled to hear there might be a return!
I am SOOOO excited that Farrell’s will be back! I can’t wait for my daughter to experience what I had as a child. Some of my most fondest memories were trips to Farrell’s. I had to have my 13th Birthday there knowing that they were gonna close, and that would be my last party there.
I am bummed out that the ones that they are opening first are so far away from my home. Hopefully in the future they will open one in the South Bay like the one they had in Torrance on Hawthorne Blvd.
Just saw a news blurb this morning about this. Outstanding! Back in the day, I had one of those foam hats, and had trough ribbons TWICE around it. Ate over 30 troughs and one Pike’s peak (called other names in other locations). The closest Farrell’s was in Riverside (about 20 miles away) but WELL worth it. I remember going there with the French Club (all girls except me) in high school and I was the only one speaking any English. What a hoot!!!
I would love to see farrell’s come to modesto ca. I used to live in OC. when I was a little girl, so I do have very good memories of the parties my parents gave us there.Im now 47. wahoo!
when is the Farrell’s in Mission Viejo opening?
Katy: I just added a link to a recent update story I posted. Here’s the link here:
http://fastfood.freedomblogging.com/2009/05/08/finally-farrells-reveals-first-oc-location/20273/
My sister used to work at the Farrell’s in East Brunswick, NJ. Loved the place! I’m surprised that not more people have mentioned the great candy shop you had to go through to get to the register and pay your bill, LOL. They had every type of candy under the sun! I’m in Raleigh NC now, so would love to see one open up here (with the candy shop!).
I remember Farrell’s at Westland Mall in Hialeah Florida way back in the 1970’s. My sister met her husband there as employees. I remember the rock candy, the pig trough (almost made me sick), and I once tried butterscotch syrup on my french fries and damn was that good. I also remember one of the very first Pac-Man video arcade games was setup inside. Then Marriot offered my brother-in-law a chance to manage a hotel restraunt. He went for it, but then shortly after that they closed and sold the Farrell’s he loved so much. That just pissed him off, so he quit Marriot.
I have a few idea improvements for Farrell’s.
1- Instead of using one particular ice cream brand, use whatever brand is made in whatever state that Farrell’s location is at. For instance, Blue Bell ice cream is made right here in Florida - ergo use Blue Bell ice cream only for locations here in Florida, etc. This would save huge amounts of dollars in purchasing said ice cream, which could then be translated over to the customer. The same could be used for ordering local foods from local growers.
2- Change the menu according to the location demographic. An example would be here in Florida, where we have a huge Hispanic demographic. Thusly, offer tropical fruit splits instead of just bananas, offer Cuban-flavored foods instead of just burgers & fries.
Remember, what you are offering is a unique Celebration experience. You can’t celebrate when offered food choices that you don’t like or want.
When I went to my 10-year and 20-year high school reunions, Farrell’s always came up in conversation. Do it right, and bring it on Dudes.
I know you guys at Farrell’s probably already have a list of suppliers, but I just wanted to give you a heads-up on one from Florida:
http://www.crossroads-market.com/hard-to-find-grocer/default.asp
I also stumbled on these guys:
http://www.metrocandy.com/
My 2nd date with my wife of 34 years was at Farrell’s. How about a North Orange County shop?
I am so excited about Farrells making a comeback. I loved it when I went to one when I was a kid. I miss the ice parlors like Swensen’s and Farrells. Will there be one in North Orange County too. Great idea-Thanks for bringing back the fun so I can take my own kids to enjoy.
Is Farrell’s coming anywhere near SF? I remember many bdays there holding up the zoo. Many nights after high school band practice and games. I would love to see one around in the bay area. Before it was in San Mateo and Daly City.
Farrells was my home away from home! I miss it so! After the disastrous changeover to ferns and green leather closed down our local Farrells, I used to drive over 100 miles to go to the one in Daly City, which didn’t change and remained open for several years. Bring Farrells back!!! It’s right up there with In and Out, Juniors and Katz’s Deli among iconic American restaurants. And when I was a kid, few things were as thrilling as watching a Zoo get delivered to somebody’s table.
I`m 90 and ever since i`ve first ever heard of this place i`ve wanted to go