In a nostalgic revival of a Western Pennsylvania heritage brand, Jim and Leslee Conroy bring a new Isaly's store to the Strip District, rekindling memories of skyscraper ice cream cones and chipped chopped ham for Pittsburgh locals. The Conroys, who acquired the Isaly’s brand in 2015, have leased a 3,500-square-foot space at 2111 Penn Ave. to establish the shop, as reported by WPXI. This marks the first new Isaly's outlet in decades and pays homage to the brand’s historical significance in the region.
According to a piece from Audacy, the forthcoming Isaly's location will reside in the former Boulevard Glass & Metal storefront on Penn Ave. True to its roots, the establishment aims to serve classic menu items and homemade ice cream, with seating for up to 70 customers. Construction is expected to commence in the coming months, and the target opening date is the second quarter of next year.
To maintain the brand's authentic feel, the Conroys have been consulting an original Isaly’s deli operations manual to ensure the new store reflects the timeless quality of the 120-year-old company. "They’re both from Pittsburgh and grew up going to Isaly’s," Hannah Conroy, the marketing director for Conroy Foods and daughter of Jim and Leslee, shared with Pittsburgh Magazine. "My dad was close friends with the previous owner. It holds a special place in their hearts."
