Let this cool fact wash over you as you battle summer’s sizzling heat: More ice cream is produced and devoured in the United States than any other country in the world, making it convenient to enjoy the frozen treat. Here’s an even easier way: Live in an ice cream shop on the Oregon coast.
Sweet Shop Gearhart and the residence that shares the quarter-acre property a short stroll to Del Rey Beach is for sale at $1,050,000. Added quencher: The Sweet Shack in the patio area has cold beer on tap.
The 1915 building at 567 Pacific Way in Gearhart has long been serving visitors to this dot of a town between Seaside and Astoria. It was a soda fountain, called Poppino’s Sweet Shop, in the 1920s.
Julius Meier of Meier & Frank department store chain started funding the “Boulevard by the Sea” around 1911, said Sweet Shop Gearhart property owner Traci Williams. The Gearhart Golf Links, the oldest golf course in Oregon, continues to be an allure.
Today, there is a revitalization vibe with the sale of the Gearhart Ocean Inn, Fitzgerald’s Cottages and Gearhart Ironwerks, said Ann Samuelson of Rise Above Realty, who has listed the Sweet Shop Gearhart for sale.
“All new owners are facilitating or planning improvements to the properties,” she said. “It is a prime time to step into this turnkey property and grow the opportunity it presents.”
The building has two street-front entrances to accommodate a retail shop, spa, gallery, office space, restaurant or event space, said Samuelson.
The property will appeal to anyone with a love of the coast, food and wine such as a caterer or “up-and-coming or aspiring chefs wanting great exposure to a higher-end clientele,” said Williams, who has taken cooking classes in Italy, France, New York, California and Portland.
The late chef James Beard spent summers as a child in Gearhart and made it his final resting place.
Williams listed other potential buyers:
Someone wanting a career change and to be their own boss
Empty nesters looking for something to do for the whole family. “My college kids and their friends spent summers working for me,” said Williams.
Anyone tired of bigger city issues who wants to be in fresh air every day
The dwelling has original hardwood floors and was recently renovated inside and out, from framing and floor joists to insulation and windows. The new kitchen has granite counter tops, custom tile and cabinets, and stainless-steel appliances. The renovated bathroom has a new soaking tub and dual shower heads.
Outside is a deck and shower with a dog washing or beach clean-up station.
Other Improvements and upgrades to the historic building enhanced its structural integrity and energy efficiency.
“Live your dream in James Beard’s beach town,” said Williams.
— Janet Eastman | 503-294-4072
[email protected] | @janeteastman
