A series on legendary businesses
By Steffen Klenk
Anyone driving eastbound on Zion Road in Egg Harbor Township may notice the twenty-foot-tall raisin holding an ice cream cone with a giant red baseball cap on its head. The statue originates from a miniature golf course in Wildwood and is believed to be a tribute to the Claymation-like raisins promoted by the California Raisin Advisory Board in the 1980s. It is originally made from papier-mâché and has graced the cover of Weird New Jersey magazine.
While the raisin was given a makeover last year, along with its shiny red cap, the iconic statue has been standing tall for over thirty years and overlooks Little’s Dairy Bar.
The popular spot for tasty treats has been serving customers far and wide since 1973. The property was owned by Richard Little. Before opening as an ice cream parlor, it was once home to a small produce stand. Upon Mr. Little’s passing, his son, Robert Little, inherited the business, and in April 1999, the LaPorte family, consisting of Laura and her husband Joseph, officially took over operations. “I have three daughters; they all grew up here, they all worked here, and they learned to make their own money.” Laura describes.
Upon walking up to the window, hungry paying customers can choose from a variety of desserts. From soft serve to water ice, banana splits, shakes, sundaes, pretzels, hot dogs and candy, Little’s has it all. One of my personal favorite selections on their menu is their Flurry. Consisting of soft serve ice cream and blended with one of a dozen toppings, this treat is a must-try.
The family run ice cream shop has been a go-to for locals, with lines stretching around the building as the summer season progresses. Each year, nearly a dozen employees, consisting of area students from EHT, Linwood, Northfield, and Somers Point, become part of a team that works hard and loves what they do. One of the most important aspects of Little’s is their mission to serve the community with the same great family friendly service and product. “You have to want to be here, and you have to want to work with people and make the community happy.”
For decades, Little’s Dairy Bar has become a household name to area residents. Along with supporting EHT’s movie nights and summer concert series, each year you will find their hard-working staff serving up your favorite treats at EHT’s National Night Out. LaPorte has previously volunteered her time and efforts to the success of Project Graduation. The late-night alcohol and drug-free event, hosted by Egg Harbor Township High School, provides graduating seniors a fun-filled party with activities ranging from games, entertainment, prizes, photo booth, and DJ. “The decorating that goes into it is unbelievable; it had decorations like you have never seen.”
With over twenty-five years in the business and being connected with organizations such as the Police Activities League and Project Graduation, LaPorte describes being at Little’s as a great way of connecting to the community. “I knew all my kids’ friends, and I knew their parents because everybody would come here. It really has its perks in a lot of ways.”
Little’s Dairy Bar is located at 617 Zion Road in Egg Harbor Township. Their current hours of operation Sunday-Thursday 2-9pm, and Fridays & Saturdays 12-9pm, with extended summer hours coming soon. Be sure to follow them on Facebook and Instagram @littlesdairybar for updated announcements and events.
