If you’ve ever found yourself warming under the summer sun along Sidmouth’s picturesque seafront, indulging in a creamy, handcrafted gelato cone, chances are you’ve experienced the magic of Taste—the South West’s iconic ice cream shop.
For over a decade, this family-run gem has grown from humble beginnings into a cherished local institution. Beyond their award-winning flavors, Taste has earned its steadfast following through unwavering dedication to quality, community, and authentic craftsmanship.
Step inside the unassuming shop, and you’re met not just with dessert, but with a story of passion and resilience. Cathy Inglis, the straightforward and devoted managing director, leads the venture alongside her daughter Sophie Vickery, whose youthful energy and social media savvy breathe fresh life into the business. Meanwhile, Cathy’s son Thomas brings flavors to life as the in-house gelato artisan—making Taste a truly family affair.
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Before embarking on this sweet journey, Cathy devoted seven years to palliative care in Exeter. Seeking a life filled with more smiles, she took a bold leap in 2015, purchasing the ice cream parlour from its original owners. Though the start was daunting—“I didn’t know a thing about running an ice cream shop,” Cathy admits—the family’s collective determination quickly transformed Taste into a celebrated destination.
Sidmouth was a natural choice for Cathy, who fondly recalls bringing her children here to swim. Unlike typical seaside vendors relying on factory-made ice cream, Taste crafts all their artisan gelato from scratch onsite using premium Italian ingredients—a commitment Cathy proudly underscores.
Sophie, now 26, has practically grown up in the shop, infusing it with new ideas and inventive flavors. She remarks, “People from all over—even abroad—know us through word of mouth, but it’s the locals who are our heartbeat. Their support keeps us going.”
Thomas, 24, draws inspiration from Italian gelato masters, continually experimenting with flavors—sometimes inspired by quirky customer requests. Once, a Brussels sprout flavor debuted, proving “awful—but the buzz was incredible, and everyone came to try it!”
A pinnacle moment came when Taste’s Pear and Ricotta gelato won the prestigious Supreme Champion title at the Taste of the West awards, besting over 5,000 entries. The judges praised its exceptional texture, taste, and originality, cementing Taste’s reputation for excellence.
Running a seasonal business in a tourist town isn’t without challenges. With just three sunlit months to generate revenue, Cathy insists on staying open year-round for the locals, necessitating long hours and unwavering commitment.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, while many closed shop, Cathy and Sophie adapted by serving coffee from the doorway—maintaining community connection and offering comfort in uncertain times.
Beyond business, Taste nurtures local bonds—sponsoring youth football teams and delivering joy to care homes. Cathy reminds her team, “Sometimes the person who comes in hasn’t spoken to anyone all day. Make them feel seen.”
Though Cathy is contemplating easing back, her passion remains undimmed. Sophie looks ahead with ambitions to grow the business thoughtfully while preserving its unique character.
After ten years, Taste stands not just as an ice cream shop, but as a testament to family dedication, community spirit, and the irreplaceable joy of a truly handcrafted gelato.
Cathy concludes with an open invitation: “This is the only place in the world you can get this ice cream. Come and try it.”