Head to Sweet Ellie’s for Coffee, Dessert and More
Thursday, March 7, 2019
by Sarah Beavers, Messenger Staff Writer
Sweet Ellie’s Ice Cream and Treats is an ice cream shop that feels like home. The decor invokes the feel of old-fashioned ice cream shops. At the helm are the welcoming owners, Avery and Lisa Kelleher. Sweet Ellie’s is the culmination of Lisa’s lifelong dream and out of a love of ice cream. This is the love Lisa shares with her daughter and Sweet Ellie’s namesake, Elizabeth.
The Kellehers put down roots in Sewanee four years ago. They also have two other businesses, Spare Space and All Blown Up. Sweet Ellie’s opened its doors on Dec. 1, in Cowan.
“The most gratifying thing is seeing folks enjoy what we make,” Avery said.
The warm and inviting atmosphere the Kellehers have crafted at Sweet Ellie’s is reinforced by Avery and Lisa’s hands-on approach.
“When you make people feel welcome, they keep coming back,” Avery said. The genuine kindness Lisa and Avery radiate makes it clear customers return for more than just the delicious ice cream.
Customers can enjoy many flavors of Ashby’s Sterling ice cream. Also served is coffee from the Black Rifle Coffee Company. Black Rifle is a veteran-owned business, and a portion of their sales goes to support veterans. Avery said choosing the Black Rifle to supply Sweet Ellie’s with coffee was a way the Kellehers could give back. Avery had a previously undiagnosed kidney disorder. Thanks to a Military Entrance Processing Station physical, the disorder was caught and treated.
The Kellehers already have big plans to expand Sweet Ellie’s. In late March, a barista will be joining the Sweet Ellie’s crew, Avery said. Leading a planned menu expansion, the Kellehers will be integrating a hot food side for the sandwiches and soup offerings. For right now, enjoy the fresh made brownies and waffle cones. Homemade soup is available Monday through Friday.
The Kellehers frequently test new recipes with their customers, and a recent sampling included a jalapeño popper sandwich, crustless apple pie, cinnabons, s’mores, and Sun Drop cake.
“We’re all family. Come on in and join the family!” said Lisa.
Sweet Ellie’s is located at 112 Tennessee Ave. South, Cowan. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Call ahead at (931) 313-5597 or check out their social media for the daily specials.