Beloved , a Redmond institution for nearly 70 years, still has not opened for its summer season, leaving some customers to speculate the ice cream parlor might be closed for good.
Fans have been posting questions on Theno's Facebook page for many months now, asking when they will be able to get their ice-cream fix. Recently, rumors have begun circling that the owners have decided to retire and close the shop permanently.
"We keep driving by looking for the 'we're open' sign," one fan posted. "You are such a part of the community. We love coming there and have for the last 27 years. Our family sure hopes that you'll come back for even a short time. You are missed."
The family-owned ice cream parlor, located off Redmond-Woodinville Road on the very northern edge of town, has been serving up scoops to generations of Sammamish Valley residents for nearly 70 years. The Bloor family bought the business in the 1980s and has owned and operated the shop since then.
Theno's closed Jan. 1 for the winter season—an unusual move that suprised many customers. Three weeks into May, Theno's still sits empty with a "closed" sign on the front and its patio furniture stacked against the building. The life-size cow statue that once greeted customers has been removed.
Theno's itself posted the following message on its Facebook page last month: "We will be releasing some news very soon about our status and whether or not we will be open again. Sorry for the delay."
Redmond Patch has attempted to contact the Bloor family via phone, email and Facebook, but has had no luck so far. The shop's phone number has apparently been disconnected.
In a Redmond Patch article from last year, Sandy Bloor said the rainy climate of the past two summers has been tough on Theno's. ( to read the entire story.)
Judging by the response on Facebook, loyal customers are more than ready to line up for Theno's cones, rain or shine.
"I've been going to Theno's since I was a kid. I use to play in the field behind you guys when there was a house on top of that hill," one fan wrote. "You're an icon for the Eastside. I really hope you guys can make it work."
