Hillhurst Ice Cream and Confectionery (1921–late 1930s)
- May 1
- 1 min read
Hillhurst Ice Cream and Confectionery became a beloved gathering place in Kensington, serving Calgary families for generations.
Located at 1122 Kensington Road NW, Hillhurst Ice Cream and Confectionery was opened in 1921 after Salvatore Cozzubbo purchased the building. The store quickly became a popular neighborhood destination, known for its ice cream counter lined with glass jars filled with candies.
Alongside sweets and treats, the store also featured a self-serve grocery section offering fruits, vegetables, grocery items, newspapers, and magazines. It became both a business and a social gathering place for the local community.
Salvatore operated the business until his death in 1932, after which his wife Rosaria continued running the store for several more years.
The building still exists today, including its original ceiling, and now operates as a coffee shop. It forms part of the historic Arnell Block, now recognized as a heritage site. In 1996, the location became home to Calgary’s first Starbucks, remaining there until 2019.
Rose Dipalo inside her grandparents’ ice cream parlour.