Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream is known for its annual “Ice Cream for Breakfast” campaign, raising money for Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. First Watch is known for breakfast (And brunch. And lunch.). Now, these beloved hometown businesses are coming together for a sweet surprise.
From June 20 to July 4, kids dining at participating Central Florida First Watch restaurants will score a free scoop of Kelly’s signature Cake Batter N’ Sprinkles with any kids menu purchase, while supplies last.
“This partnership with First Watch feels like such a natural fit — two local brands coming together to create something special for the community,” said Kelly Seidl, owner of Kelly’s Homemade Ice Cream.
“As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, it means so much to share this moment in a way that brings joy to families. A scoop of ice cream at breakfast is a little unexpected, but that’s what makes it memorable— and we’re so happy to be part of those moments.”
Indeed, next month, Kelly’s will be 10 years old, a decade-long odyssey that’s seen Seidl’s brand grow from its first scoop shop in Orlando’s Audubon Park Garden District, to a six-shop mini-empire, not to mention 37 counter venues inside Foxtail Coffee locations statewide. First Watch, said Shane Schaibly, senior vice president of culinary strategy, is proud to honor their success.
“For kids who grew up in Florida, like me, summer just isn’t complete without ice cream,” said Schaibly. “That’s why we’re excited to team up with Kelly’s … to create some unexpected summer fun. Together, we’re proving ice cream isn’t just for dessert. Scooped on top or alongside your favorite breakfast items, like pancakes and waffles, it’s a cool way for families to start these hot Florida summer days.”
And ahead of the in-store promotion, First Watch is hosting two Sundae Fundae events:
- Noon-2 p.m. June 22: Altamonte Springs restaurant, 720 E. Altamonte Drive
- Noon-2 p.m.: June 29: UCF location, 3402 Technological Ave.
Show up and you’ll find Kelly’s famous pink ice cream truck on site, serving free scoops — with First Watch menu-inspired toppings — to the first 100 customers at each location with proof of same-day purchase from First Watch. Hang onto those receipts.
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“As a fellow Florida-based company, we have deep roots here in Orlando with 30 restaurants and nearly 1,000 employees,” said Dave Gerau, regional vice president for First Watch. “Community is at the heart of everything we do. Coming together with Kelly’s felt like the perfect way to surprise kids and families with something special for this summer. Because honestly, when else can you enjoy a scoop of ice cream piled high on your waffle?”
No surprise, Seidl feels the same.
“We’re always looking for new ways to spread smiles in the community,” Seidl said, “and we love that this collaboration brings a little extra sweetness to the breakfast for local families.”
The free scoop of Kelly’s best-selling Cake Batter N’ Sprinkles is available with the purchase of any Kids Menu item, and automatically served on top of the kids Chocolate Chip Pancake, Half Waffle and French Toast, and on the side of other menu items.
Participating First Watch locations include Longwood, Sand Lake, UCF, Mills Park, Oviedo, South I-Drive Orlando, Nona Place, Apopka, O-Town West, Altamonte Springs and Winter Springs.
For more information, visit firstwatch.com/icecream.
Find me on Facebook, X or Instagram (@amydroo) or on the OSFoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie. Email: amthompson@orlandosentinel.com. For more fun, join the Let’s Eat, Orlando Facebook group.
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