Farrell's was Fabulous Fun

I can vividly remember the excitement in the air you would encounter the moment you walked into Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour. It was sensory overload, especially when a lucky guest was presented with The Zoo — a huge platter of ice cream and toppings carried on a stretcher that took two servers to hoist to the table. They meandered through the restaurant with sirens blaring. The Pig’s Trough, an over-sized banana split, was another fan favorite. Naturally, all these delicious delights could be shared with the entire table. Customers continued to frequent Farrell’s not only for the sweet treats but also to take part in their wild and crazy traditions. 

For Jerry Naftaly happy memories of Farrell’s were the leaping-off point for eight years of research culminating in his fourth book — Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour Restaurants.

Naftaly, the former mayor of Oak Park, takes the reader on a stroll down memory lane that captures both the history and essence of this iconic restaurant chain. For over 50 years, Farrell’s received high marks when it came to customer satisfaction – and the book teems with memories of luscious ice cream concoctions and entertaining antics by employees. 

Founded in 1963 by Bob Farrell and Ken McCarthy, Farrell’s was an instant hit in Portland, Oregon. As more locations opened, Farrell’s quickly became a landmark destination for all variety of celebrations. By 1975, there were 120 restaurants spread throughout the United States, including Southfield, Troy and Ann Arbor. 

I asked Jerry what sparked his interest in writing about the Farrell’s experience. He explained, “In 2016, I watched an episode of a TV show called The Profit, hosted by the entrepreneur Marcus Lemonis. I was a frequent viewer as a student of businesses that were on the verge of closing and in need of professional expertise. My curiosity piqued when I heard that Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour would be the first episode of Season Four. I couldn’t believe that Farrell’s was still in existence.”

Jerry continued to tell me that he watched the episode with great interest, taking notes and gathering names of those involved with Farrell’s. He was fascinated with their business model and started to reach out to the main players, including the production team for Mr. Lemonis and the family of Bob Farrell, who passed away in 2015. After gathering initial notes and interesting facts, Jerry decided to write a book about these old-fashioned style ice cream parlors.

Most of the people actively involved with Farrell’s lived on the west coast and Jerry began to contact the current CEOs as well as the Marriott International Corporation, owner of Farrell’s name from 1972 to 1982. Says Jerry, “I continually searched for information about Farrell’s while contacting local libraries, historical societies, newspapers and former employees, via social media.” Once Jerry started scooping, he was astounded by the wealth of information he amassed to begin writing. 

From the parlour’s origins, Farrell’s quickly became a national name that stood for “family fun.” Customers would receive free ice cream sundaes on their birthdays and have friends, family and staff sing along to the well-known birthday tune. When children from the 60’s and 70’s grew up, they took their children to Farrell’s to experience the same timeless joy. 

Jerry is no stranger to historical research. In 2012, he wrote Images of Oak Park, offering the reader a glimpse into The Family City, dating back to its humble beginnings in 1927. While he was compiling photos and background information about Farrell’s, his second book, Northland Mall, was published.

Jerry discussed the challenges he faced while tackling multiple projects.

“While digging for information about the Farrell’s brand I was simultaneously writing, working on game boards that coincided with two of my books, and trying to meet deadlines. It was a busy time. I stayed on course and contacted previous owners, archivists and even customers who frequented the chain. Farrell’s success and subsequent demise fascinated me.”

Jerry’s book highlights the innovative business practices of Bob Farrell and those he came to partner with over the years. Farrell’s employees focused on customer satisfaction, creating a unique atmosphere, and zany antics, which traced back to Farrell himself. He simply wanted people to enjoy themselves while dining out and to be pleased with the service they received so they would come back again and again.

Among the many positive reviews of Jerry’s book: 

“Who thought a book about an ice cream parlor could be so interesting and educational?”

“The old ads, pictures, and menus of Farrell’s are delightful.” 

“Warning: Reading this book may lead to broad smiles and a strong craving for ice cream!”  

Farrell’s Ice Cream Parlour Restaurants is a must read for all who hold their childhood memories close and for those who want a glimpse into the past.