Rock & Roll Roots on Cape Cod
Emack & Bolio’s brings its music-inspired ice cream to Cape Cod at 80 Cranberry Hwy in Orleans. Started in Boston in 1975 by Bob Rook, a music lawyer who created it as a late-night spot for rock musicians, the shop is named after two homeless clients he once helped. The Orleans location opened in the early 1980s, making it one of the first Cape Cod outposts for the brand.
What Makes It Special
With over 75 creative flavors, they offer options you won’t find anywhere else:
- Deep Purple Cow (black raspberry with chocolate chips and blueberries)
- Space Cake (cake batter mixed with red velvet chunks)
- Twisted Delight (made for Dee Snider of Twisted Sister)
Their famous cones are dipped in chocolate then rolled in toppings like marshmallows, sprinkles, or crushed cookies, making them as eye-catching as they are tasty.
Something for Everyone
The shop offers:
- Vegan and non-dairy options made with coconut cream
- Live-cultured yogurt made with non-fat milk
- Fruit sorbets sweetened with pure cane sugar
- Seasonal flavors using Cape Cod ingredients like cranberry and sea salt
Fun Cape Cod Connections
The shop features Stoney the Moose, the brand’s mascot since 1975 Cape Cod folklore tells of Stoney’s brother Mack, who supposedly surfs local beaches After a local naming contest, “Mack” became the official name of the surfing moose The shop keeps its old-school charm with a cash-only policy (ATM available)
Rock Star History
The original Boston shop was a hangout for bands like Aerosmith, The Cars, and U2. This rock heritage shows up in their flavor names and overall vibe, making it more than just an ice cream stop.
Emack & Bolio’s in Orleans is typically open spring through fall. For current hours, check their website or call ahead.