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Sugar 'n Spice, Balboa Island is a dessert shop, caterer, and dessert restaurant that has been delighting customers for over 75 years. Located on Balboa Island in Newport Beach, this establishment has become a beloved tradition for locals and visitors alike.
The story behind Sugar 'n Spice is both charming and delicious. It all began with Bob and Dorothy Cook, who opened Dot & Bob's Candy Shop in the 1940s. One day, their son Don accidentally put some bananas in the freezer instead of the refrigerator. Rather than letting them go to waste, Bob had the brilliant idea to dip them in fudge. This happy accident led to the creation of their famous frozen bananas.
In 1945, Dot & Bob's Candy Shop was sold and became Sugar 'n Spice. Alongside their frozen bananas, they introduced another iconic treat - the Balboa Bar. This delectable dessert consisted of blocks of vanilla ice cream with a tongue depressor wedged inside, dipped in melted chocolate, and covered with various toppings like chopped peanuts, crumbled butter brickle, rainbow sprinkles, or chocolate sprinkles (jimmies).
The legacy of Sugar 'n Spice continued through the years with dedicated employees like Brad Schultz, who worked at the shop during the 1960s when Bob Fitch owned it. Each week, crates of bananas would be delivered to the back alley and meticulously sorted by size. The bananas were then peeled, stuck with a stick, and frozen for 24 hours. Customers could watch as their chosen banana was dipped into a vat of melted milk chocolate before being rolled in their preferred toppings.
In 1995, Helen Connolly took over ownership of Sugar 'n Spice from a woman named Bet. Under her guidance, this beloved establishment has continued to thrive and bring joy to countless customers.
Sugar 'n Spice offers more than just frozen bananas and Balboa Bars; they also serve a wide variety of mouthwatering desserts. From creamy milkshakes to decadent sundaes, there is something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Their commitment to quality and tradition is evident in every bite.
Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Sugar 'n Spice, Balboa Island is sure to leave you with a smile on your face and a satisfied craving for their delectable treats. Celebrate the tradition and indulge in the sweet delights that have made this dessert shop an iconic destination in Newport Beach.