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The Sweet History of Thrifty Ice Cream: Why It’s Still a West Coast Favorite

Thrifty Ice Cream has been a West Coast favorite since 1929, known for its iconic cylindrical scoops, budget-friendly prices, and nostalgic flavors like Chocolate Malted Krunch. From its beginnings in Los Angeles drugstores to Rite Aid counters and now grocery shelves, Thrifty remains a sweet tradition nearly a century later. 🍦

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Last Updated on August 31, 2025 by Daily News Staff

Thrifty Ice Cream

For many West Coasters, the mere mention of Thrifty Ice Cream stirs up sweet memories—soda fountain counters, colorful scoops, and that oh-so-satisfying cylindrical shape. But Thrifty isn’t just nostalgia in a cone; it’s a brand with a rich history, consistent quality, and a surprisingly resilient future. Let’s dig into why this creamy California icon has been loved for nearly a century—and where you can still find it today.

A Brief History of Thrifty Ice Cream

The story begins in 1929, when brothers Harry and Robert Borun, along with their brother-in-law Norman Levin, founded Thrifty Drug Stores in Los Angeles. Times were tough during the Depression, so they lured customers in with a sweet deal: scoops of ice cream for just 5 cents. It was an instant hit.

By 1940, Thrifty was making its own ice cream in Hollywood. The brand quickly became famous for offering affordable, high-quality scoops that families could count on. As the drugstore chain expanded across California, Nevada, and Arizona, the ice cream counters grew right along with it.

In 1976, production moved to a bigger facility in El Monte, California—where ice cream is still churned out today. Employees there became part of the tradition, often staying for decades and even hand-signing cartons with their names.

When Rite Aid acquired Thrifty in 1996, they wisely kept the ice cream counters intact, ensuring that generations could still grab a scoop while running errands.

Thrifty Ice Cream

Why Thrifty Became So Popular

So what’s behind Thrifty’s enduring charm?

Affordability – From 5¢ scoops to today’s still-reasonable prices, Thrifty built its reputation as the treat anyone could afford. Consistency & Quality – The recipes have stood the test of time, with real milk, fruits, cookies, and chocolate. Thrifty has racked up 1,600+ medals at dairy competitions. That Famous Cylindrical Scoop – The flat-topped, cylinder-shaped scoop is as iconic as the ice cream itself. It’s neat, stackable, and instantly recognizable. (Yes, you can buy the scoop today!) Flavor Variety – From timeless classics like Mint Chip and Chocolate Malted Krunch to playful experiments like Sriracha Swirl, Thrifty knows how to keep things interesting. Nostalgia Factor – For Californians especially, it’s more than dessert—it’s a memory of childhood, family trips, and after-school indulgences. Convenience – Where else could you pick up prescriptions and grab a double scoop of Circus Animal Cookie ice cream?

The Challenges (and the Comeback)

Thrifty’s story hasn’t been all sprinkles and whipped cream. With Rite Aid’s bankruptcy filings and the closure of hundreds of its stores, many scoop counters disappeared in recent years. Fans began to worry: was this the end of Thrifty Ice Cream?

Fortunately, there’s good news. In mid-2025, Hilrod Holdings—run by the executives behind Monster Beverage—purchased Thrifty for about $19 million. Their goal? Preserve its heritage while expanding into new retail spaces, scoop shops, and maybe even wider national distribution. The scoop lives on!

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Where You Can Still Find Thrifty Ice Cream

Even with Rite Aid closures, you can still get your hands on this West Coast treasure:

Rite Aid Counters – Some locations still scoop it up, though they’re dwindling. Pre-Packaged in Grocers – Look for cartons or pints at Albertsons, Vons, Safeway, and select Rite Aids. Water n Ice Stores (Arizona) – In Tempe and across Phoenix, these shops are local go-tos for scoops and cartons of Thrifty. Independent Outlets – Some franchise scoop shops, even in Mexico, still carry it. Online & At Home – Buy a pint through Instacart or grab the iconic cylindrical scooper online and recreate the magic in your own kitchen. New Scoop Shops – Tucson, AZ is getting a Thrifty Ice Cream pop-up at the Tucson Mall in late 2025—a hopeful sign of more to come.

Final Scoop

Thrifty Ice Cream isn’t just dessert—it’s history, affordability, quality, and nostalgia all rolled into one. From its 5-cent beginnings during the Depression to its modern revival, it has remained a beloved part of West Coast culture.

Whether you’re chasing down Chocolate Malted Krunch, stacking up scoops of Rainbow Sherbet, or finally buying that famous cylindrical scooper, one thing’s for sure: Thrifty Ice Cream proves that the sweetest things in life really can last forever.

👉 Have you tried Thrifty lately? What’s your all-time favorite flavor? Share your memories in the comments—we’d love to hear your scoop!

Related Links for Thrifty Ice Cream Content

  1. Official Thrifty Ice Cream Website – About, flavors, and FAQs

    https://www.thriftyicecream.com

  2. Thrifty Ice Cream on Rite Aid – Product info and store locator

    https://www.riteaid.com/thrifty

  3. History of Thrifty Drug Stores (Wikipedia) – Corporate history and acquisition

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thrifty_PayLess

  4. Article: Thrifty Ice Cream’s Nostalgic Appeal – Overview of flavors and cultural impact

    https://alumninews.ie.edu/thrifty-ice-cream-a-nostalgic-scoop-of-american-history

  5. Recent News: Thrifty Ice Cream Acquisition – Hilrod Holdings buys the brand in 2025

    https://www.sfgate.com/food/article/new-owners-expand-california-ice-cream-20816693.php

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  6. Where to Buy Thrifty Ice Cream in Arizona – Local scoop shops and grocery availability

    https://www.reddit.com/r/phoenix/comments/17k6a8d/water_and_ice_stores_have_thrifty_ice_cream

Dive into “The Knowledge,” where curiosity meets clarity. This playlist, in collaboration with STMDailyNews.com, is designed for viewers who value historical accuracy and insightful learning. Our short videos, ranging from 30 seconds to a minute and a half, make complex subjects easy to grasp in no time. Covering everything from historical events to contemporary processes and entertainment, “The Knowledge” bridges the past with the present. In a world where information is abundant yet often misused, our series aims to guide you through the noise, preserving vital knowledge and truths that shape our lives today. Perfect for curious minds eager to discover the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of everything around us. Subscribe and join in as we explore the facts that matter.  https://stmdailynews.com/the-knowledge/

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Food and Beverage

Casamigos Introduces New Pre-Mixed Margaritas (Classic Lime + Spicy) Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

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Casamigos kicks off its FIFA World Cup 2026 moment with Gabrielle Union and Keegan-Michael Key and introduces new pre-mixed margaritas in Classic Lime and Spicy, designed for easy match-day hosting.

Casamigos is getting an early start on FIFA World Cup 2026™ watch-party season—and it’s doing it with a little friendly rivalry. The tequila brand announced a new World Cup campaign starring Gabrielle Union and Keegan-Michael Key, pairing the two as playful “hosts” who go head-to-head over a simple match-day question: are you Team Classic or Team Spicy?

The campaign tagline says it all: “Rivals at the game, Casamigos at the Bar.” The idea is less about picking sides forever and more about leaning into the competitive energy of the tournament—then coming together once the final whistle blows.

Team Classic vs. Team Spicy: the new bottled margaritas

Alongside the celebrity-led campaign, Casamigos introduced new pre-mixed margaritas in two flavors:

  • Classic Lime
  • Spicy

Both are designed for “pour, serve, and get back to the game” hosting—no extra ingredients, no shaking, no measuring. According to the brand, each pre-mixed margarita is 20.5% ABV and made with Casamigos Tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and natural flavors.

Casamigos says the bottles are meant to keep hosting simple during the tournament’s full 90 minutes (plus stoppage time), whether fans are gathering at home, meeting up at the bar, or celebrating in host cities.

Casamigos kicks off its FIFA World Cup 2026 moment with Gabrielle Union and Keegan-Michael Key and introduces new pre-mixed margaritas in Classic Lime and Spicy, designed for easy match-day hosting.
Casamigos, an Official Tequila Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

What Gabrielle Union and Keegan-Michael Key are bringing to the campaign

Casamigos is leaning into Union and Key’s chemistry to capture what makes World Cup fandom so fun: the passion, the pride, and the rivalries that can get loud—without getting personal.

Union, who said she grew up playing soccer, is firmly Team Spicy, noting she loves “a little heat,” and that the best part of the sport is how it brings people together.

Key, a longtime World Cup viewer, is Team Classic, saying the “classic rivalries” already provide all the spice he needs.

World Cup activations and limited-time packaging

Casamigos is an Official Tequila Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ and plans to activate in host cities throughout the tournament with fan-first experiences. The brand also noted that its pre-mixed margaritas will feature limited-time FIFA World Cup 2026™ packaging.

For shoppers, the new pre-mixed margaritas are available in:

  • 750ml bottles (about 10 cocktails)
  • 375ml bottles (about 5 cocktails)

Casamigos lists 110 calories per serving and a suggested retail price of $21.99 MSRP, with both flavors best served chilled.

What to watch for

The World Cup is still months away, but brands are already battling for a spot on your watch-party table. Casamigos’ move is a clear bet on convenience: bottled margaritas that keep the vibe high without turning the host into the bartender.

And if you’re the type who treats every match like a personal derby, Casamigos’ message is basically this: talk your trash during the game—then toast like friends afterward.


Source:
Casamigos Spirits Company (PRNewswire), March 19, 2026.

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Recipe of the Week

Dive Into Healthy Eats with Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes

Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes: Inspired by the vibrant flavors and traditions of the Mediterranean, the aptly named Mediterranean Diet zeroes in on nourishing foods long touted as some of the healthiest by dietitians and health organizations.

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Dive Into Healthy Eats with Mediterranean-Inspired Dishes

(Feature Impact) The warm weather season offers a perfect opportunity for a meal reset. Inspired by the vibrant flavors and traditions of the Mediterranean, the aptly named Mediterranean Diet zeroes in on nourishing foods long touted as some of the healthiest by dietitians and health organizations.

Inclusive of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and other legumes, as well as low-fat or fat-free dairy products, non-tropical vegetable oils and nuts, poultry and fish – such as Genova Wild Caught Yellowfin Tuna – Mediterranean-focused dishes fit beautifully into a colorful, healthy diet. The Mediterranean Diet has also been associated with many benefits, as it includes key nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids that support brain, eye and heart health. Because this way of eating also prioritizes fiber and lean protein, it also can support a healthy weight, which can fuel overall health and well-being for years to come.

Packed with protein and omega-3s, Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil is wild-caught and inspired by the flavors and traditions of the Mediterranean. Free from additives and preservatives, this convenient protein makes an easy and delicious addition to meals inspired by the region’s fresh, vibrant ingredients.

A simple, elegant Flatbread Nicoise lets tuna take center stage, melding together fresh, foolproof ingredients like baby potatoes, green beans, baby arugula, kalamata olives and red onion on top of a warm, doughy crust. Or take the taste of the Mediterranean further at lunch time with this Mediterranean Tuna, Feta and Dill Salad. It combines the big, bright flavors and textures of arugula, cucumber, feta, fresh dill, lemon and tuna to give your tastebuds a happy zing and keep you satisfied until dinner.

For more information, including recipes, serving suggestions and a product locator, visit GenovaSeafood.com.

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Flatbread Nicoise

Total time: 50 minutes

Servings: 4

  • 4          ounces baby potatoes, well-scrubbed
  • 2          tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1          pound store-bought pizza dough, at room temperature
  • kosher salt, to taste
  • freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2          ounces green beans or haricot verts, trimmed
  • 1          can (5 ounces) Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil
  • 1 1/2    teaspoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2       cup baby arugula
  • 1/2       cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4       cup pitted kalamata or nicoise olives, halved
  • 1/4       small red onion, thinly sliced
  1. Preheat oven to 450 F. Using mandolin, thinly slice potatoes.
  2. Drizzle 9-by-13-inch baking sheet with 1 tablespoon olive oil and spread pizza dough to edges. Shingle potatoes over dough, leaving 1/2-inch border. Season with salt and pepper, to taste, and drizzle with remaining olive oil.
  3. Bake pizza until cooked through and crust is golden, about 25 minutes. Remove and let cool slightly.
  4. Bring small saucepan of salted water to boil. Add green beans and cook until bright green and crisp tender, about 3 minutes. Strain, rinse with cool water and drain well. Transfer to work surface and cut each bean into thirds on bias.
  5. Strain oil from tuna can into small bowl and whisk vinegar into oil. Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
  6. Sprinkle slightly cooled pizza with arugula, tuna, tomatoes, olives, green beans and red onion. Drizzle with vinegar dressing then slice and serve warm.
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Mediterranean Tuna, Feta and Dill Salad

Total time: 20 minutes

Servings: 4

  • 3          cups arugula
  • 1          cup cherry tomatoes, each cut in half
  • 1/2       English cucumber, cut into 1/2-inch chunks
  • 1/2       cup feta cheese chunks
  • 1/4       cup sliced red onion
  • 2          tablespoons chopped fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill, plus additional for topping (optional)
  • 2          cans (5 ounces each) Genova Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil

Dressing:

  • 2          tablespoons fresh-squeezed lemon juice
  • 1          tablespoon fresh chopped dill
  • 1/2       teaspoon salt
  • 1/4       teaspoon ground black pepper
  1. In large bowl or on platter, lay arugula. Place cherry tomatoes, cucumber, feta, red onion and dill over arugula. Top with tuna; reserve oil from cans.
  2. To make dressing: In small bowl, combine lemon juice, dill, salt and pepper. Whisk in reserved olive oil from tuna cans until mixture is well blended.
  3. Before serving, drizzle dressing over salad and top with additional chopped dill, if desired.
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Genova Tuna

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Food and Beverage

Easy, Creamy Spring Goodness

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Last Updated on April 20, 2026 by Rod Washington

spring

(Family Features) For a soup that smells as divine as it tastes, warm up your home with the fresh scents and flavors of Creamy Asparagus Soup. Pair with chicken salad croissants for a simple weeknight meal without the hassle then visit Culinary.net to discover more spring soup solutions.

17435 asparagus soup detail image embed1

Creamy Asparagus Soup

Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy
Servings: 4-6

  • 2 asparagus bundles
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 3 cups broth of choice, divided
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese
  • 2 teaspoons celery salt
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • salt, to taste
  • pepper, to taste
  • chicken salad croissants, for serving
  1. Chop asparagus into bite-size pieces. In large pot, place asparagus, butter, onion powder, garlic powder and 1 cup broth. Cook over medium heat until asparagus gets tender.
  2. Transfer to blender with 1 cup broth and blend until smooth. Transfer back to pot and, over medium heat, mix in cream cheese, remaining broth and Parmesan cheese. Add celery salt and Italian seasoning. Cook while stirring, blending seasonings in well, then add heavy cream.
  3. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Serve with chicken salad croissants.

 

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Culinary.net

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