By Mark Hallum
Ralph’s Famous Italian Ices in Bayside said its final goodbye via Facebook recently.
On March 24, the popular storefront at 214-15 41st Ave. announced it would not be returning for the summer months.
“Dear Bayside: It is sad to say but we are closing the Bayside Ralphs. We want to thank you for your loyal patronage. And while we might not know your names, we certainly knew many of you and we will miss catching up with you. And did we not have the best Crew in the WORLD? Good Bye Bayside.”
Faithful customers voiced their disappointment that the ice shop was closing in the comments section of the post.
“I am so sad – I love your ices. We were just saying this weekend we couldn’t wait for you to open,” Lisa Marie wrote in response to the announcement.
There was no explanation for the closure, which left some wondering.
“Why[?] I was looking forward to you reopening this year! I could walk to you and not lose my parking spot which was so convenient! What happened[?] Greedy landlord[?]” Jim Castoro wrote.
Andrew Kum expressed profound despair over where he will find his favorite flavor ,“crazy coconut.”
Jeanne Tassaro wrote, “Ralph’s will be so missed!! And yes, you had the best crew ever. Best of luck to you all.”
Reach reporter Mark Hallum by e-mail at mhall
