Ice Cream & More at Don’s Ruston Market

July is National Ice Cream Month, but even were it not, Don’s Ruston Market & Deli is one of my favorite places to stop.

Ruston is a small town (population approximately 765) in Pierce County, surrounded on all sides by the city of Tacoma.  Most people don’t realize when they enter or leave Ruston, but if you’ve ever been to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, you’ve been through Ruston.

Owned and operated by Don and Beth Torbet, Don’s Ruston Market & Deli is the stereotypical small-town corner store and is the hub of activity in Ruston.  You’ll recognize the locals, stopping by for coffee, and the chance to catch up on the news and gossip around the town, while the visitors stop by on the way to or from the park.  Don is also the town’s Fire Marshall.

Right inside the door at Don’s is an honest-to-goodness old-fashioned soda fountain.  Sit yourself down on one of those stools and order up a chocolate malt, or fountain soda, or hot fudge sundae.  Those are my favorites, but go ahead and experiment and discover yours.

My suggestion for a sunny afternoon is to stop by Don’s and pick up one of the great freshly made to-order deli sandwiches, a few snacks and a beverage, then head off for an afternoon at Point Defiance Park (map).  Then, after a day in the sun, stop by for a refreshing ice cream treat before heading home.

Location: 5102 N. Winnifred Street, Ruston (map)

Hours: This is a small town store, and hours can vary, but it is generally open during basic business hours.

Price: Inexpensive, very good value.

Photo credit: MorgueFile