Operations

The Original Rainbow Cone to open in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood

Photo: The Original Rainbow Cone

May 23, 2024

Chicago's trendy Wicker Park neighborhood is adding a scoop (or rather, a slice) of nostalgia with the upcoming arrival of The Original Rainbow Cone. The iconic ice cream shop, known for its five-flavor cone, will open a location at 1750 West Division Street, according to a press release.

A grand opening celebration kicks off on May 28 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10:30 am. To celebrate, the shop will hand out out free cones in the week leading up to the opening, with the first 100 guests receiving a classic rainbow cone.

Founded in Beverly in 1926, Rainbow Cone has been a Chicago staple for generations. Their signature treat features slices, not scoops, of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio and orange sherbet. Since its inception, Rainbow Cone has expanded to 16 permanent locations across the state and beyond, with seasonal kiosks at popular spots like Navy Pier.

Wicker Park's new location offers more than just the classic cone. Visitors will be among the first to sample Rainbow Cone's recently launched sliced creations: Orange Dream, Chocolate Obsession, Minty City and Cosmic Birthday. These flavors mark a historic first for the 98-year-old institution, offering a twist on the traditional Rainbow Cone experience.

"What started as a South Side classic in Beverly has quickly evolved into a beloved symbol of Chicago's one-of-a-kind food scene," Joe Buonavolanto III, EVP of The Buona Companies, the parent company of Rainbow Cone, said in the release. "The opening of our newest location in Wicker Park reaffirms our commitment to making our unique tasting experience accessible to even more Chicagoans in addition to those missing a taste of home across the country."

Rainbow Cone joined forces with Buona, a leading Italian beef restaurant group, in 2019 to form The Buona Companies. The family-owned business, known for its authentic Italian beef recipe, is actively expanding its reach under the leadership of Joe and Peggy Buonavolanto's five sons and grandchildren.

Rainbow Cone's franchise opportunities offer entrepreneurs a chance to establish their own legacy. With upcoming openings planned in several states including Florida, Texas, and California, the company seeks passionate individuals with experience in the restaurant industry who are dedicated to quality food and community involvement.