Throwback Thursday: Hansen's Sno-Bliz

Earlier today, JBF announced the 2015 America's Classics honorees, our award given to regional establishments that are treasured for their quality food, local character, and lasting appeal. As we induct this new class of regional favorites into our ranks, it seemed only fitting to dedicate this Throwback Thursday to one of last year's winners, Hansen's Sno-Bliz.

On frosty days like these, we can only dream of licking melted shaved ice off our fingers in the scorching heat of summer. In 1934, Ernest Hansen patented one of the earliest ice shaving machines, and shortly after, his wife Mary started developing her own flavored syrups to use as toppings. On a sweltering New Orleans summer day back in 1939, they debuted their creations as Hansen's Sno-Bliz. Their granddaughter, Ashley Hansen, pictured here standing proudly with her award, has kept this mouthwatering business in the family. She continues the tradition of operating only in the summer, and to this day, long lines snake down the street as families flock to enjoy classic and innovative flavors ranging from sweet Creole tomato to cool cucumber to the mysterious cream of nectar.

Read about this year's America's Classics honorees here.