As Penn students, we brag about the accomplishments and accolades of our founding father, Benjamin Franklin. While you may be all too aware that Benny F. was the creator of the lightning rod and our very own institution of higher learning, he also managed to attach his name to a delightful little invention that is even more ubiquitous than bifocals: ice cream.
The Franklin Fountain offers a glorification of this sweet creation. While it is steeped in historical hoopla, don’t let the turn-of-the-century cash register or signage fool you. The Franklin Fountain is in fact a product of the last half-decade: the Old City staple opened in the summer of 2004. This modern incarnation of a good ol’ fashioned ice cream parlor draws upon century-old influences. The classic menu of sundaes and sodas is updated with 21st century considerations, vending soy and sugar-free flavors.
The Fountain’s treats (sundaes, splits and classic cones) and soda fountain staples (phosphates, milkshakes, egg creams and ice cream sodas) are cutely named and come in myriad flavors… and at a price (ice cream drinks are $5-$6, sundaes and splits go for $8 and up). We went all out for the sake of Ben Franklin and opted for the “Tarzan of the Apes” banana split ($9.50), which featured two heaping scoops of vanilla bean ice cream, macerated berries, a slathering of chocolate sauce, whipped cream, a banana and a cherry on top. Runner-up for our choice included the "Mt. Vesuvius" sundae (“erupting” with brownie, hot fudge and malt).The sweet and creamy vanilla competed with the toppings, but the thick chocolate syrup was delicious. Unless you’re looking for a week-long sugar rush, opt for a simple cone.
The lines may be long, but just like a good chessesteak, you don't know Philly till you've tried the Fountain for yourself.
Franklin Fountain 116 Market St. Sun.-Thurs., 1 to 11 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 1 p.m. to midnight Don’t miss: The homemade cones Skip: Overloading your sundae
