The longtime owner of Aglamesis Bro's Ice Cream and Candy, passed away on Jan. 23 at the age of 93.
James Aglamesis, also known as "Jim" or "Mr. A," led the family ice cream parlor chain for more than 60 years and died from pneumonia that was unrelated to COVID-19, the business’s Facebook page announced.
“Over the many years he came to know hundreds of staff that worked here and thousands of customers,” said the post. “Mr. A had the unique ability to remember names and faces from many years ago.”
Aglamesis Bro’s Ice Cream and Candy welcomed people with memories of Jim Aglamesis on its post, which has over 215 comments at press time.
The over-a-century-old ice cream parlor brand, which has locations in Oakley and Montgomery, was founded by Greek immigrants Thomas and Nicholas Aglamesis, Jim's father and uncle, respectively. The two opened their first ice cream shop called The Metropolitan in 1908 in Norwood, the company’s website explains.
The Metropolitan was sold during The Great Depression. The brothers opened their second store, officially called Aglamesis Brothers Ice Cream and Candy, in Oakley in 1913.
Jim Aglamesis took over the business in the 1950s and continued to oversee it until recent years, when he passed its leadership to third and fourth generation family members.
Numerous media outlets, including the “New York Times,” “Taste of Home Magazine,” the Food Network’s “Food Feuds” and others praised Aglamesis Bro’s Ice Cream and Candy over the years for its distinct character, authenticity, and of course, delicious ice cream.
And locals agree. In 2020, CityBeat readers voted Aglamesis Bro’s Ice Cream and Candy as No. 1 for Best Chocolates, No. 1 for Best Gelato/Sorbetto/Frozen Ice, No. 2 for Best Ice Cream, and as No. 1 for Best Candy Store in CityBeat’s Best of Cincinnati.
The Aglamesis Bro’s location in Oakley is often noted for its store decor and design, which has remained virtually unchanged since its inception, lending to the parlor’s timeless feel. The business’ website notes that the original marble imported from Portugal, exotic Tiffany lamps and hand-laid tile floors still stand in the Oakley store.
The sweets brand is well-known for its opera creams, a Cincinnati signature made from fresh cream, milk and butter and covered in a dark chocolate covering. The Aglamesis Brothers website claims the opera creams are “a nationally renowned delicacy.” Additionally, they offer a wide range of candies and chocolates, homemade ice creams and Italian ice varieties.
The Aglamesis Bro's stores are located at 3046 Madison Road, Oakley and 9899 Montgomery Road, Montgomery.