Tesi Johnson, Gleaner Writer
Eric Saint Marc (left) of Häagen-Dazs points out some of the flavours to William Mahfood of Wisynco, at the official opening of the Häagen- Dazs shop, at the Barbican Centre, East King's House Road, on Wednesday, September 28. - WINSTON SILL/FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER
ICE CREAM is atop the list of satisfying treats that, by tantalising the palate, brings joy and comfort to the hearts of many - both adults and children.
To the delight of ice cream lovers islandwide, the premium ice cream brand, Häagen-Dazs, has planted its roots in the Barbican Centre where an invitation is extended to all to "indulge yourself".
The official opening ceremony took place on the evening of Wednesday, September 28, at the shop's locale. In his greetings, William Mahfood, the director of Partner Foods and general manager of Wisynco Group Limited, expressed delight at the prospects for the brand and its shop in Jamaica.
His enthusiasm was matched by Eric Saint Marc, the general manager of General Mills for Latin American Developing Markets, and regional director of Haagen Dazs Shops.
He, too, spoke of his delight with the new shop and expressed fervour in extending the relationship between Jamaican consumers and General Mills products. This shop is the first for Jamaica, the 19th in the Caribbean and number 582 in the world.
The rest of the island need not be jealous of north-east St. Andrew, as there are plans for additional locations in Kingston and Montego Bay in the near future, and others across the island later on.
By the end of Marc's address, those present seemed eager for the sampling to begin, and who could blame them, it's Häagen-Dazs! Soon after, representatives from General Mills and Partner Foods carried out the official opening gesture as they cut the golden ribbon and the days of Häagen-Dazs began.
Mouths watered as the attendants streamed out with trays filled with cups of Dulce de Leche, vanilla and coffee ice cream.
EXOTIC FLAVOURS
Those were just a few of the flavours available for tasting, as guests were privy to an array of marvellous and exotic flavours like Macadamia Brittle, Strawberry Cheesecake and Belgian Chocolate.
As they experienced pleasure, one spoonful at a time, songbird Cindy Breakspeare soothed the ear with contemporary, reggae and jazz selections. Those who ventured inside the shop found themselves in charming ambience, as the interior design is reminiscent of European bistros with its sharp curves and smooth lines incorporated into the plan.
There one could sit down for full table service, if so desired, with a complete menu option. In addition to the assortment of ice cream flavours, a selection of specialty desserts, pastries, cakes, teas, coffees as well as a range of cocktails are on the menu.
Among those enjoying the delights of Häagen-Dazs were Kerry-Ann Clark, proprietor of Kerry's; Member of Parliament Delroy Chuck; Brian 'Ribbie' Chung, co-owner of The Quad, Sharice Fernander, fourth runner-up in this year's Miss Jamaica World Competition, as well as Pulse model Nadine Willis.
