Bonnie Doon Ice Cream facts for kids
Bonnie Doon Ice Cream was a popular American ice cream brand. It started in 1938 in Indiana, a state in the U.S. Three brothers named Muldoon created it.
The Muldoon brothers held a contest in the South Bend Tribune newspaper in 1937. They wanted people to help them name their new restaurant. The family even named one of their daughters, Bonnie Muldoon Witt, after the business!
What Made Bonnie Doon Special?
Bonnie Doon had many restaurants in its area. You could eat inside, or you could drive in with your car. Orders were taken over a speaker, and a "car hop" would bring your food right to your car.
One very popular ice cream flavor was Mint Chocolate Chip. They also sold a hamburger called the Bonnie Burger. These restaurants were very successful and well-loved by many people.
Where Was Bonnie Doon Ice Cream Made?
Bonnie Doon ice cream was made at a special plant in Elkhart, Indiana. It was sold at their carhop diners in both Indiana and Michigan. The plant closed down at the end of 2013.
Today, the one Bonnie Doon diner that is still open uses Valpo Velvet ice cream. This ice cream is made nearby in Valparaiso. The current owner of the remaining Bonnie Doon restaurant is Adam Carroll.
Bonnie Doon Locations
Over the years, Bonnie Doon had several drive-in locations:
- South Bend, Indiana: On Lincolnway West, at the corner of Lincolnway West and Bendix Drive.
- South Bend, Indiana: At 52446 SR 933, north of Roseland.
- South Bend, Indiana: In the 1600 block of South Michigan Street.
- Mishawaka, Indiana: At 109 E 4th Street.
- Mishawaka, Indiana: At 2704 Lincolnway West. This is the only Bonnie Doon location that is still open today (as of 2021).
