The ‘Ice Cream King’ is back. This iconic shop set to reopen in North Myrtle Beach
The Original Painter’s Homemade Ice Cream in North Myrtle Beach is re-opening next week with a familiar face behind the counter at the 74-year-old iconic shop.
Dominic Anthony Munafo, dubbed “The Ice Cream King,” worked in his father, James Mantzanas’, shop for more than 24 years. He took a break in late 2023 when his family sold the business.
According to several Facebook posts, the new owner struggled to maintain the shop at 2408 Highway 17 South in North Myrtle Beach, and it ultimately closed earlier this year.
It’s still listed on Google Maps as “permanently closed. ”But Munafo’s family has re-acquired Original Painter’s Homemade Ice Cream and the King is determined to bring it back to its former glory.
“I missed it and I missed the people,” he said. “When you get away from something that you love you truly miss it.”
Ice cream, Vanna White and BB King
Much has been written about the local ice cream parlor and the celebrities who have frequented it over the years. Most notably, Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White once mentioned it on the show.
“In my hometown of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Painter’s Ice Cream, there’s a Vanna Banana Split,” she told Wheel of Fortune host Pat Sajak in a clip from the show posted on YouTube in 2020. “I’ve been going there for over” — she pauses — “a long time.”
In a phone interview on Tuesday, Munafo said that he got his moniker several years ago when he was making a special delivery of butter pecan backstage at the House of Blues. When Munafo met B.B. King with the artist’s favorite frozen treat, the “King of the Blues” proclaimed him the “Ice Cream King.”
Old flavors and some new recipes
While the 1950s classic facade remains with its iconic red roof, walk-up windows and outside picnic tables, the kitchen is being totally revamped with all new, modern equipment to make the signature homemade ice cream.
“Everything will be made from scratch again, like it used to be,” Munafo said, adding that customers will see all their old favorite flavors, but that some new recipes will be added to the freezer.
Long time customers will also recognize the regular crew as Michael Kitianopoulos will remain as manager working alongside Munafo to serve up the frozen confections.
The duo seemed determined to open next week, but could not yet specify the exact date.
Manufo said that their old Facebook business page is no longer being maintained so customers should check his personal Facebook account for updates until a new site is established.
Manufo acknowledged that for a business with an established legacy like Painter’s Original, the recent changes have caused some confusion. But he wants to reassure his customers.
“We want them to know that we are putting our whole hearts into the ice cream business. We enjoy it as much as they enjoy eating it.”