It’s been a common question around Folsom these last several weeks, “does anyone known when is the new Leatherby’s opening?”
Today, the Leatherby’s family has shared the “scoop’ on when the newest addition to their collection of Leatherby’s Family Creameries will be officially dishing out delights to the public
“We plan on to train our employees this week and next and will be (officially) open to the public on May 29,” said David Leatherby Jr. in a conversation with Folsom Times.
In the days prior to the opening, a handful of invite only events are and a “soft opening” will be taking place as well as a VIP event that the company plans to share details of on its social media pages so follow them there for the details on how to pay an early visit.
So, with the opening plans being officially announced by Leatherby himself, it’s just a matter of days until Folsom residents can get one of those popular giant Daddy Dave Banana Specials, a Marie’s Sundae, their iconic crab sandwich and other menu items the family owned company is known for. According to Leatherby, they are just excited to come to the Folsom community as the community is to have them.
“We have been looking at Folsom for a number of years as a place for our family business,” said Leatherby. “We hear at least ten times a day, ‘when are you coming to Folsom?”
The longtime family-owned business is occupying what was previously Islands Restaurant at 2455 Iron Point Road.
Friday morning, contractors were putting the finishing touches on the site that has been completely revamped from its previous beach theme to that of an family ice cream parlor, complete with the trademark blue and white checkered paint scheme.
“It was just a matter of finding the right location. The Pappas family, Pappas Development Company, made available one of their buildings in the perfect location, so we jumped on it,” said Leatherby. “We are very excited to become a part of this wonderful community, and hope to contribute to make Folsom even better.”
Prior to the rising of the Folsom location, the closest Leatherby’s is located in Citrus Heights. Over the years, many from Folsom, El Dorado Hills and even above have been traveling to patronize the location. During that time, the Leatherby’s Family had been doing their homework and determined Folsom was an ideal community for another location.
“We typically draw customers from a wide geographic area and from every segment of society, young and old, business and retired and every ethnic group. Because of this, we look for specific things to be present in the community: ideally a growing, vibrant, dynamic environment with good schools, youth and adult sports, active churches and community organizations, etc.,” said Leatherby. “Folsom is a place that has everything in abundance.”
Known for their variety of homemade ice cream, sundaes and American-style dishes, Dave and Sally Leatherby opened the first Leatherby’s on Arden Way in Sacramento back in 1982. Today, the family tradition continues with four locations in the region. In each of the cities they service, the family-owned company is known for being very involved in the community.
“When we opened Leatherby’s 40 years ago, my father wanted to do something that would directly contribute to the betterment of the community,” said Dave Leatherby Jr. “Since then, we have made it our mission to make a place where every person is welcome.”
One of the many key elements for Leatherby’s through the years has been supporting and giving back to the communities in which their establishments are located. They look forward to bringing that business model to the Folsom community and joining with local charities, service clubs, youth sports and more.
The local creamery will employ approximately 100 staff members, many of which are now in training.
Those interested in future positions can learn about opportunities and apply at www.leatherbys.net. Advertised hours show all Leatherby’s locations are 11 am to 11 pm Sunday through Thursday and 11 am to 11 pm Fridays and Saturdays. Fans are advised to keep up with their upcoming special events on their social media pages and website.
LEATHERBY’S FAMILY CREAMERY RICH IN HISTORY..
A beginning based on providing happiness…
“Ice cream brings joy and happiness to all.” According to the family history files, it was that simple truth that led Dave Leatherby (Daddy Dave), and his wife Sally to open their first Creamery in 1982. Dave Sr had grown up in Iowa and worked in a small-town café that was owned and operated by his parents. He remembered fondly how the “Main Street Café” had been a “gathering place for the whole community,” and hoped to create a business that would offer the Sacramento community this same warm environment. Dave Sr and wife Sally approached their son David Jr and his wife Jennifer with the idea of starting a business together, a real family business in which all 10 of their children might be able to work together.
Leatherby’s today…
Fast forward 40 years and the Leatherby family now owns and operates 4 restaurants, all while keeping the same goals in mind. Since 1982 customers from all over Northern California have flocked to Leatherby’s for enormous sundaes, great food, and a fabulous family atmosphere. Many people young and old have fond memories of devouring a Daddy Dave’s Sundae. In fact, Dave Sr. became a affectionately known around town as “Daddy Dave”.
A true family affair…
The Family Creamery has become an integral part of family life for the entire Leatherby family, that now has grown to over 100 people. Many Leatherby family members, nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren and other relatives still work at Leatherby’s today. “To us, the ice cream parlor is our home away from home. It has allowed us to enjoy what is most important in life…family and friends…and serving others,” reads their motto.”
Learn more about the history of Leatherby’s and see their menu at www.leatherbys.net.
Dave Leatherby (Daddy Dave), and his wife Sally to open their first Creamery in 1982. Dave Sr had grown up in Iowa and worked in a small-town café that was owned and operated by his parents. Photo: Leatherby’s Family.