CORONA, Queens (PIX11) -- For many Corona residents, a line outside the Lemon Ice King of Corona marks the unofficial start of summer. The Italian ice shop is known for its unique flavors.
The shop specializing in Italian ice has been around for 80 years and has become a staple in the community.
“The quality of the ice. Generations like to come back and say, 'Oh, my dad and grandpa took me there, now they’re taking me here,'" Owner Mike Zampino said.
Zampino started behind the counter in 1983. At the time, the shop was owned by Peter Benfaremo, whose family opened the store in 1944. The two became close- Zampino never left- taking over the business in 1993.
“It meant a lot. He was like my second father, you know, a great friend. A best friend. We had a great relationship,” Zampino said.
Another thing that hasn’t changed? The recipes. Even on Thursday, the recipes for the 50 flavors remain a secret. Lemon remains the most popular flavor.
Long-time customers said that’s part of the appeal.
Manny Fernandez is a Corona resident who used to work at the store.
“I was here yesterday. I’m here today. Why every day? I just like it. The flavors are fresh,” he said.
Miriam Rivera is a teacher in the area.
“We can always come here and get the same thing. The fact that it doesn’t change. And everything changes after a while,” she said.
Mike Gambino is committed to preserving the traditions of the 80-year-old business, including taking his employees under his wing—just like Benfaremo did for him.
“He’s like a father figure. He has work not feeling like work,” Marco Vasquez said.
Joseph Pasqua has worked at the shop for six years.
“Mike has always been there for me. He knows when to push me and when to support me,” he said.
For Zampino, this place is his home, and the customers are his family.
“It’s the only thing I know. So I just keep coming back,” he said.
The Lemon Ice King of Corona is open year-round, but it has extended hours in the summer from 10 to midnight.
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