Amy Ortiz was driving her ‘52 Mercury through the Arts District when she saw the “For Lease” sign at 1203 South Main St.
“When I saw the location, everything just fell into place,” Ortiz told What Now Las Vegas. “I thought, this is the perfect spot for my ice cream shop.”
Ortiz has wanted to open a vintage soda shop and ice cream parlor for years, ever since she ran her clothing business Rockin Bettie from the Arts District. Even after moving her pin-up/rockabilly retail storefront to Third and Colorado, she’s had ice cream on her mind.
At last, Cream Me Ice Creamery will open in the Arts District. Leading up to the grand opening later this month, Ortiz has been curating vintage decor and furnishings to create an authentic ‘50s feel. Whether it takes driving out to California to source a retro diner bar and stools, or commissioning art for an indoor mural, Ortiz is working hard to make her vintage vision a reality.
“I just love that era,” Ortiz said. “The old cars, the old music, the clothes, all of it.”
Ortiz explained that, while she loves the old-fashioned values, she’s not so much a fan of old-fashioned or outdated beliefs. With Rockin Bettie, she managed to make a career out of her passion for the retro aesthetic; Cream Me will be a sort of extension of the vintage brand she has already established.
Once open, Cream Me will offer a range of Lappert’s Ice Cream, Thrifty’s, vegan and keto options. Eventually, Ortiz hopes to add house-made items to the menu.
Mountain West Commercial Real Estate manages the property at 1203 S Main St. Constructed in 1945, the building still features its original wooden trusses.
