The Mill Fudge Factory and Ice Cream Café

Have it your way at the Mill Fudge Factory in Bristol’s square. It’s worth a detour off of I-93 (Exit 23) to find the oldest building in Bristol brim full of the newest ideas.Owners Linda Carmichael and husband David opened the café several years ago serving their own homemade ice cream made from a scratch base. They serve it many ways – standard cones in about nine flavors, or their vanilla base can be blended with fresh berries, peanut butter, cheesecake or 15 other flavors. Or have a vintage root beer float or hot fudge sundae with sauce made from their own fudge. Maybe try a standard “creation” like Pumpkin Symphony that has real pie swirled into vanilla ice cream with caramel sauce and whipped cream.The smooth buttery fudge is made from an old family recipe and can be ordered online. Flavors include Cabin Fever Whiskey and Peanut Butter M&M.If you can get past the fudge and ice cream, the café creates sandwiches with wholesome Iggy’s bread with a build-your-own menu that includes a tasty garlic-lemon mayo. Other options include quesadillas, salads and baked potatoes.If all this is not enough, the café hosts a series of community events, including open mics and concerts. Ameranouche appeared recently, playing gypsy jazz to a house full of content patrons quietly spooning up hot fudge sundaes. – Susan Laughlin