Natural ingredients, always fresh

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20 Degrees Gourmet Ice
647 1/2 E. Park Ave., Long Beach
(516) 431-4423, www.20-degrees.com

John Maieli and Theresa Diaz met in Johnson & Wales College of Culinary Arts, where they studied to become pastry chefs. Maieli was from New York, and Diaz, from Florida. After graduation, they worked in hotels and restaurants prior to venturing out on their own.

John introduced Theresa to Italian ices. Her reaction was that ices could be delicious, but didn’t have to taste and look artificial. Using their acquired knowledge of developing flavors, they created 20 Degrees Gourmet Ice, crafting recipes comprised of all things natural. 20 Degrees Gourmet Ice started out as a company that partook in mobile events, such as craft and street fairs. In March, the husband and wife team opened a store on the east end of Long Beach, which John runs, full time. Their Grand Opening was on May 24. 

Theresa manufactures the products in a facility in Farmingdale. She uses the best possible ingredients — real fresh fruit, local roasted coffee beans, and fine chocolates, leaving out anything artificial, such as colors, flavors, and high fructose corn syrup. She uses no MSG, and ices are gluten free, using 100 percent pure cane sugar. Dairy-free options were developed too.

“Children love the flavors, and parents love it even more. They know that they are feeding their kids only healthy treats,” said John.

Flavors include Blueberry Lemonade, Chocolate, Strawberry Kiwi, PB Flake, Vanilla Chip, Mango, Coconut, Chocolate Brownie, Crumb Cake, Raspberry, and Mocha Chip, just to name a few. They are changed frequently. Each month they feature a unique new one, and June is Lychee. Grape and Apple will arrive soon, and the owners are always open to new suggestions. They even serve shakes and ice cream sandwiches on homemade cookies.

The store is clean, modern and inviting. Enjoy ices at the shop, or grab some and go. They are located only blocks from the boardwalk. There is seating inside for up to ten people, and a table outside. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. “Like” them on Facebook for special promotions and events.

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