By James Martin McCarthy
Copyright belfastlive
The family behind one of Belfast’s most famous ice cream parlours has announced its immediate closure after more than 100 years in business. Fusco’s Ice Cream first opened in 1897 after the family, like many others, settled in the ‘Little Italy’ district of North Belfast , which was located between Great Patrick Street and Nelson Street, and had become synonymous in North and West Belfast with stores at the Ardoyne Shops and the Andersonstown Road, where they served up authentic Italian ice cream and coffee. The family’s North Belfast store closed earlier this year, and now they have announced that their Andersonstown branch has closed as they have decided to take early retirement. They posted on Instagram, “After many wonderful years serving scoops, smiles, and memories, we’ve made the decision to take an early retirement and close Fusco’s Ice Cream . “Running this family business has been such a joy and a privilege — from seeing generations of families come through our doors to sharing in your celebrations, sunny days, and even the rainy ones too. “We want to say the biggest THANK YOU to all of our loyal customers and friends who have supported us over the years. Your kindness, laughter, and love for our ice cream have meant the world to us. “Though our doors are now closed, the memories will stay with us forever. Here’s to every scoop, every cone, and every smile.” West Belfast MP Paul Maskey paid tribute to the family and wished them well for their retirement. “An Andersonstown institution, serving our community for decades,” he said. “Fuscos will leave behind many memories for many children and adults alike. “Thank you for serving our community so well over the years. You will be missed, along with my favourite honeycomb ice cream.” For all the latest news, visit the Belfast Live homepage here and sign up to our daily newsletter here.
