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ROCHESTER — For the second year in a row, Captain Bonney’s Creamery has been crowned the best ice cream spot in the area, winning our South Coast Today ice cream poll.
Owner Amber Romero said she couldn’t be prouder. For her and her team, this recognition is more than just an award, it’s a testament to their hard work, dedication and the unwavering support of the Rochester community.
“It feels so good. We are so blessed to have the kind of customer base that we do, because they’re so supportive,” Romero said.
“Winning it the first time was amazing. Winning it the second time feels just as amazing because I know that me and my employees put out a lot of hard work to make sure that the service is as good as we can have it and this just shows up as that what we’re doing is right.”
A legacy rooted in its own history
Established in 2011, Captain Bonney’s Creamery is named after Captain Nathaniel Bonney, a whaling captain who owned the current property in the 1800s and buried the Rochester cemetery. The nautical theme is ever-present, paying homage to its history and adding to the charm.
Captain Bonney’s Creamery is located at 258 New Bedford Road. It’s open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., including all holidays. With plenty of seating options and picturesque views, it remains a beloved destination for families looking to enjoy delicious ice cream and a taste of local history.
Romero’s journey with Captain Bonney’s began during its first summer, working as an employee. After eight years on staff, she took over in 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic began. Romero said she and her team worked hard to adapt and persevere.
“As soon as I opened, we had to follow so many rules, which, equally with the help of the health department in my town, they were amazing,” she said.
“We were able to stay open because we were takeout, and we just tried to go hard with the town.”
Looking to the future
This year marks another major milestone for Romero as she and her husband were officially able to purchase the property.
“Now I own both of those from the property, which means that Bonney’s in my eyes will be around for many, many years to come,” she said. “Now, I foresee just building up the business even more and more.”
With over 50 flavors of premium ice cream, the creamery offers something for everyone. It also plan to feature special events such as a rodeo week and a “Dog Days of Summer.” They also plan to have a creative sundae months crafted by staff and just trying to keep things fresh and fun for regulars and newcomers.
“This year, we’re trying out a lot of new sundaes, drinks and food and everything. So it’s just always room for improvement, but we’re working towards that,” Romero added.
It’s one big family at this ice cream spot
“My crew has been amazing. They’re just really, really solid, awesome kids,” she said. “My two most seasoned employees have been here for seven years, and then I have a lot of them who’ve been here for four, and all the ones who started last year have come back this year. Our little family is great.”
As Captain Bonney’s Creamery prepares for its 15th season next year, Romero said she is optimistic about the future and grateful for the roots she and her team have deepened in the heart of Rochester.
Standard-Times staff writer Seth Chitwood can be reached at schitwood@s-t.com. Follow him on twitter: @ChitwoodReports.Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Standard-Times today.
