The Tin Roof Sundae Was Invented Here In Nebraska, And You Can Grab One From The Potter Sundry
By Delana Lefevers|Published July 18, 2022
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
One of Nebraska’s many contributions to the world is the tin roof sundae. The flavors of vanilla, chocolate, marshmallow creme, and peanuts all meld perfectly in this soda fountain classic. It was invented in a little panhandle village, and you can still sit at the very counter where the first tin roof sundae was served.
The itty-bitty town of Potter, Nebraska is located in western Nebraska between Kimball and Sidney. In it, you'll find the Potter Sundry, a restaurant and soda fountain that holds a special place in Nebraska history.
The sweet little local eatery opened in 1916, though it was a drugstore and soda fountain at that time. Right around the time of the drugstore's opening, the pharmacist's son, Harold Dean “Pinky” Thayer, created what would become the store's signature offering.
It all starts with a tall soda glass. Scoops of vanilla ice cream go in first and are topped with chocolate syrup. Then, chocolate ice cream is piled on and a cascade of fluffy white marshmallow creme is poured over the top. A generous sprinkling of Spanish peanuts finishes off the sweet masterpiece.
This is the menu item that put the Potter Sundry on the map, and it continues to make this little restaurant a destination for ice cream lovers. Sitting at the counter and devouring your sundae with a long spoon is a special type of heavenly!
If you're still hungry after you've polished off the last of your sundae, the Potter Sundry also serves breakfast and lunch. There's always a selection of delicious baked goods and grab-and-go food items, so be sure to stock up on treats for the road!
