Kernel Sweetooth To Close Next Week

FRANKFORT, IL — Kernel Sweetooth will close its doors next week after a decade as a downtown Frankfort staple, the ice cream and sweet shop announced on its Facebook page. The last day for the store at its Trolley Barn location, 11 S. White St., will be Oct. 24.

According to a note posted online by the owners, Gary and Debbie Kovarik, the Frankort shop, which is known for its gourmet popcorn tins, is shutting down because the storefront's landlord is going in "a different direction" with the space and is not renewing the lease. It's a decision that has saddened the Kovaricks.

"[P]lease know we did nothing wrong," the note stated. "Our hearts are broken and we are devastated." (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest Frankfort news. And iPhone users: Check out Patch's new app.)

The Kovariks are still looking for another spot in downtown Frankfort in the hopes of relocating. They also have a Tinley Park location, 17258 Oak Park Ave., that will remain open, and they reminded customers that the shop's popcorn tins can be refilled there.

Some residents went online to express their disappointment on hearing the news about the closing.

"The memories you have created for my girl and her friends have been priceless," Michele Overstreet commented on the business' Facebook page. "We are so sad to hear one of the favorite local, family oriented businesses has to be treated like this."

The owners also thanked their customers for their support over the years.

"The overwhelming response to the news has been heartfelt to us," the note stated.

Kernel Sweetooth, 11 S. White St. (Image via Google Earth)

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