The Irish 99

99ice-cream
A 99as it’s known is an extremely satisfying and popular soft serve ice cream in Ireland, typically served with a sidecar Cadbury’s Flake chocolate stick stuck in it. Many Irish people grew up ordering a 99 and so the idea of one sparks excitement and fond childhood memories.
History
The name “99” is said to have originated from the price of the ice cream when it was first introduced in the 1930s, which was 99 pence. The ice cream is typically vanilla flavored and can be found at ice cream trucks, cafes, and ice cream parlors throughout Ireland. If you find yourself in Phoenix Park, Dublin during the spring/summer months then you’re likely to find a ice cream truck offering a 99 for sale with a long line of adults and children waiting patiently for their own 99. It’s a beloved childhood treat for many Irish people, especially during the summer months.
There are many stories about how the Cadbury Flake chocolate stick that ended up in the soft serve cones but most popular legend is that In the days of the monarchy in Italy the King had an elite guard consisting of 99 soldiers. “Subsequently anything really special or first class was known as “99”. Whatever the real truth may be a soft serve cone remains the perfect summer treat even on a rainy day.