Our Story

🍨 Our Story- From a Dream to a Tradition

It all began in 1987, when Lou and Justine Gilbert moved to the charming town of St. Michaels, Maryland. Lou was already a successful businessman, but as he approached retirement, he felt the urge to start a small, meaningful venture—something fun to keep him busy and connected to the community. So, inspired by the love of his life, he opened a cozy little spot named after her: Justine’s Ice Cream Parlour.

In those early days, Justine’s served up the classics—ice cream alongside coffee, donuts, and hot dogs. It quickly became a beloved local hangout.

By 1990, Lou and Justine were ready to fully retire, and they passed the torch to Tom Quimby and David Smith, who shared their vision of an old-fashioned ice cream shop. Tom and David honored the original menu, keeping things traditional at first—vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry shakes just like Lou had made.

But after a while, they realized they wanted to do more. They dreamed of adding a spark—something unique that would make Justine’s stand out. So, they got creative. That’s when Tom crafted the now-iconic Creamsicle Shake and the Chocolate-Covered Cherry Shake. And just like that… the magic happened.

That’s when things really started to change.

In 1999, Chocolatier Magazine named Justine’s one of the top 10 ice cream shops in America. That national recognition marked a turning point—the moment Justine’s truly began getting noticed beyond Maryland.

Word spread fast.

Soon, glowing reviews rolled in from local and state papers, as well as national outlets like The Chicago Tribune, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and The New York Times.

In 2006 Life Magazine featured photos of the shop, capturing its vintage charm and devoted crowd.

Soon, glowing reviews rolled in from local and state papers, as well as national outlets like The Chicago Tribune, The Philadelphia Inquirer, and The New York Times. Life Magazine featured photos of the shop, capturing its vintage charm and devoted crowd.

In May 2013, Justine’s opened its second location in Ocean City, MD, at 123rd Street and Coastal Highway. Now, beachgoers could enjoy the same old-fashioned ice cream experience by the shore.
In 2019, Justine’s Ice Cream Parlour was honored with a prestigious award for Best Dessert in What’s Up Magazine. Few months later, Justine’s 6.5 lbs Titanic Challenge was featured on the hit food challenge TV show Man vs. Food, hosted by
Casey Webb , earning even more national attention.
In 2022, The New York Times featured a photo from our little shop in St Michaels, a quiet reminder that sometimes, simple joys leave the biggest impressions.

And most recently, Justine’s was voted Best Ice Cream in Ocean City for both 2023 and 2024—a testament to the love, nostalgia, and flavor that continues to set it apart.

After 35+ years of sweet memories, Justine’s stands as a local staple—where tradition, flavor, and community come together. Justine’s is still dishing out happiness the way it always has—classic, creamy, and made with love.