Rivertown’s revival continues with the arrival of Flying Dolly’s, an artisanal ice cream and dessert shop now serving customers at 402 Williams Blvd. in Kenner’s historic district. The grand opening on June 5 featured city and parish leaders celebrating this latest addition to the neighborhood’s growing food scene.
From Northshore Roots to Gulf South Expansion
Flying Dolly’s began as Just Chillin in Mandeville, founded by North Shore natives Jeff and Corey Robertson alongside the Muter family. After rebranding, the team opened in Kenner and Jackson, and later launched a location in Mobile. Plans are now under way for more shops across the Gulf South region.
“We’re honored to be a sweet complement to such a vibrant food scene,” said co-founder Corey Robertson.
“More importantly, we want to be the spark that drives more small businesses to thrive here.”
A Generational Partnership
The Robertson and Muter families share a history dating back to the 1960s, when their fathers met at Archbishop Rummel High School in St. Tammany Parish. The Muters own Doerr Furniture in New Orleans, while both families operate Pandora’s Snowballs on Carrollton Avenue.
“It’s important to us to keep everything ‘in the Parish,’” said Jeff Robertson.
“We want to invest in the people, talent, and culture that make this area special.”
Menu Highlights: Ice Cream, Snowballs, and More
Flying Dolly’s serves:
16 rotating flavors drawn from 65 homemade ice creams, including a fan-favorite Honeycomb
Custom-made snowballs that blend New Orleans’ classic shaved-ice tradition with rich ice cream
Regular snowballs, cookies, and assorted desserts
Community Collaboration and Economic Development
The shop partnered with the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission (JEDCO) and the City of Kenner to tap local resources. It has also teamed up with neighboring businesses—such as Wrenworks Studio, Tin Roof Boutique, and Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts—for creative collaborations.
Looking Ahead: Franchising and Regional Growth
Flying Dolly’s is exploring new company stores in Orleans and Jefferson parishes. The founders are also seeking franchise owners to expand the brand throughout the Gulf South.
With its family-driven roots and deep community ties, Flying Dolly’s aims to sweeten Rivertown’s blossoming business landscape and spark further growth in Kenner’s historic district.
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