Ice Cream Shop In FL Tourist Area Reopens Nearly A Year After Hurricane Milton

SARASOTA, FL — Kilwins, an ice cream and candy shop, recently reopened in St. Armands Circle after being closed for nearly a year because of damage caused by Hurricane Milton in October 2024.

The shop, which has called 312 John Ringling Blvd. home for more than 40 years, welcomed customers back on Aug. 31, according to a news release. It celebrated its grand re-opening on Sept. 27.

Originally opened in 1985, Kilwins St. Armands was one of the earliest franchised stores and the very first Kilwins in Florida.

For more than four decades, the shop has offered its signature chocolates, hand-paddled fudge and Original Recipe Ice Cream to Sarasota residents and visitors.

“The newly renovated store blends the timeless Kilwins charm with a refreshed tropical look, featuring classic black-and-white accents, turquoise highlights, crisp white cabinetry, and updated fixtures throughout,” the news release said.

The shop is also offering new menu items, including chocolate-on-the-inside waffle cones, Dubai chocolate truffles, Dubai-style Buckeyes and Dubai fudge.

“We are beyond excited to welcome back the Sarasota community to our newly refreshed St. Armands location,” Erica Escalera, Kilwins vice president of community operations. “This store has been part of countless family memories for decades, and with our updates and new offerings, we’re proud to continue sharing the joy of Kilwins for generations to come.”

The Kilwins brand, known for its open-kitchen setting, launched in 1947. It has more than 175 locations.