Business - Take a trip back in time at Mr Ed's Ice Cream Station

Cruiz-in Tuesdays invite the community, especially owners of vintage or unique cars, to come for specials, ice cream, music and a fun time.

Owner Ed Sakos started his Cruiz-in 14 years ago when he relocated his shop from downtown Saratoga Springs down the road on Route 29. They run from the forth of July through Labor Day.

“Our Cruiz-in is the largest in the area, I’d say. We draw customers from Saratoga, Clifton Park, Glens Falls, and even the Gloversville and Johnstown area,” Sakos said. “We get a lot of weekly returns too.”

He added that there are no limits to the cars that show up at his shop. He said there have been Hot Rods, Tuners, tractors and even military vehicles. Each week, one vehicle is named “pick of the night” and awarded a plaque.

Sakos’ Cruiz-in offers free ice cream to drivers of vintage and unique cars, and specials on dinners and a DJ plays tunes from the 1950’s and 60’s. At the end of the summer season, Sakos throws a huge barbeque with a pig roast, barbeque chicken and a band will play throughout the evening.

“The Cruiz-ins are a lot of fun. It’s a good family environment,” he said.

This is Sakos’ 25th year owning Mr. Ed’s Ice Cream Station. He previously worked as an industrial salesman, but knew that he wanted to own his own business.

“It’s a totally different world owning your own business. Being your own boss gives you the freedom to be yourself,” he said.

Owning the business wasn’t a walk in the park, however. His days have become much longer by being at the shop to open it in the morning and close it at night. A few hours of relief in the middle of the day allows Sakos to go home and relax for a few hours, but most of his time is spent at the shop cooking burgers and serving ice cream, he said.

“It’s definitely a lot of fun, but it’s also a lot of work. I have enjoyed it,” he said.

Sakos believes he made the right move when he relocated his shop from downtown to just outside of the hustle and bustle of Broadway.

“It has become a destination for families. We appeal more to year-round residents and families at the currently location. It’s a friendly place for kids and pets,” he said.

Sakos invites not just vintage car owners to his shop on Tuesdays but anyone who wants to enjoy the relaxed and fun atmosphere. There are no extra fees or charges or a pre-registration necessary, he said. For those who return to the Tuesday evening Cruiz-in regularly, patrons can get a stamp for each time they go and receive $.50 off the ticket price of the end of the season barbecue for each stamp.

“We invite the community to come and see the cars, listen to the music and have some good food and fun,” Sakos said.

Mr. Ed’s Cruiz-in takes place every Tuesday evening at 588 Lake Ave., Saratoga Springs, from 6 to 9 pm, weather permitting.

For more information, call 518-581-8633.