Cool Down at Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl: Food, Milkshakes and More

ZANESVILLE, Ohio — With temperatures hitting the 90s this week, a stop for ice cream might be more than just a treat; it’s a way to cool off. For many in Zanesville, that means heading to a local favorite: Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl.

Tom’s has been around for generations, but it didn’t always go by the name we know today.

“Bill Sullivan took over; he owned it from 1984; that’s my direct predecessor …1984 to 2019. I took it over in 2019. I’ve been working here for 48 years. I am the longest running employee,” Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl owner Joe Baker said.

With nearly five decades behind the counter, Baker has seen the shop grow into a Zanesville landmark. While the name may have changed, the goal has always been the same– good ice cream, and a place for the community to gather. With Dozens of food staples and seasonal ice cream flavors Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl continues to be a nostalgic staple not only for those who grew up in Zanesville, but those who are just stopping by.

“It’s a point of pride for me. It was a point of pride for every predecessor before, Bill Sullivan, Tom. Jack started it with Tom, Tom built it up to what it was, and Bill took it over. You just try to keep it going and try to make it the place to be,” Baker added.

From regulars to first-timers, Tom’s continues to draw in crowds, especially during the summer heat. Handcrafted ice cream and desserts remain a reminder of why Tom’s has been a favorite for so long.