Mt. Juliet residents just got a sneak peek at their newest dessert hangout, as city officials on Friday walked viewers through Cocopilla, a shop promising "authentic Italian" gelato and a cozy neighborhood vibe. In a short preview video, Economic and Community Development Director Jennifer Hamblen and Communications Director Justin Beasley tour the space, sample flavors and highlight counters and what appears to be a small‑batch prep area behind the scenes.
City Shows Off Gelato, Keeps Opening Date Quiet
In a reel posted July 17, the City of Mt. Juliet highlights Cocopilla's "authentic Italian" approach with quick shots of the display case and equipment, but stops short of revealing an opening date. The clip positions Cocopilla as a neighborhood dessert stop rather than a regional chain and urges viewers to stay tuned for more details, according to Facebook.
City Officials Step In Front Of The Camera
Hamblen, who leads the city's economic and community development work, appears in the reel and is identified with her official title, which is also listed on the city's staff directory. The video also features Beasley, who has served as the city's communications director in recent local reporting, per NewsChannel 5. The city directory for the City of Mt. Juliet lists Hamblen as Director of Economic & Community Development and City Recorder.
Small Gelato Shop, Big Growth Moment
The Cocopilla tease lands as Mt. Juliet continues to reel in food and retail projects after several busy years on the development front. City officials have helped announce major tenants such as Costco and Sprouts, which local outlets reported on and the city promoted as part of a broader growth push, per reporting by Sumner County Source and Wilson County Source.
The city has not released a formal opening date or a full menu for Cocopilla. In the reel, officials tell viewers to keep an eye on city social channels for updates. Residents who want to track the opening can follow the City of Mt. Juliet's Facebook page, where the reel was posted on Facebook.
