Nestled along Sidmouth’s sun-kissed seafront, a queue of eager customers savours something truly special: handcrafted, creamy gelato from Taste. For over a decade, this family-run ice cream parlour has risen from humble beginnings to become a cherished staple of the community, drawing loyal fans not just for its award-winning flavours but for its heartfelt commitment to tradition, quality, and connection.
At the heart of Taste is Cathy Inglis, the passionate managing director whose journey from palliative care worker to ice cream entrepreneur embodies resilience and warmth. In 2015, after years caring for others in Exeter’s hospice, Cathy took a leap of faith by purchasing the shop from former owners Hazel and Laura. “I fancied a lifestyle with more smiles,” she recalls. Early challenges tested her resolve—“That first week, I thought I’d made a terrible mistake”—but with steadfast belief and the support of her family, Taste blossomed into something extraordinary.
Sidmouth holds a special place in Cathy’s heart: “I used to bring the kids here to swim when they were little. It’s always felt like home.” Today, the business is a true family affair. Cathy’s daughter Sophie, armed with youthful energy and savvy social media skills, breathes fresh ideas into the enterprise. Her son Thomas, a talented 24-year-old gelato artisan, crafts inventive flavours inspired by master gelato makers in Italy, mentoring under their guidance and delighting customers with creations both classic and unexpected—even if a Brussels sprout flavour turned out to be a hilarious flop.
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What sets Taste apart from many seaside vendors is their commitment to authenticity: every scoop is made from scratch onsite using premium Italian ingredients. “Every other shop in Sidmouth buys in their ice cream,” Cathy points out. “But we make ours from scratch. It’s harder, but it’s worth it.” This dedication paid off spectacularly when their Pear and Ricotta gelato won the prestigious Supreme Champion award at the Taste of the West, standing out among thousands of entries. The accolade validated their craft and strengthened the community’s pride in the shop.
Running a seasonal tourist-focused business isn’t without its hurdles. “We have three months, weather dependent, to make enough to survive the winter,” Sophie explains. Yet Cathy’s refusal to raise prices, favoring longer hours over shortcuts, reveals a determination to keep Taste accessible to locals as well as visitors. Their adaptability shone during the coronavirus pandemic when they continued serving coffee safely, becoming a daily ritual and comfort to many.
Beyond flavour and service, Taste is deeply embedded in Sidmouth’s spirit—supporting local initiatives, nurturing staff relations, and valuing every customer interaction. “Sometimes that older person walking in might not have spoken to anyone all day,” Cathy says. “Make them feel seen.” It’s this genuine human touch that infuses Taste with its domestic warmth and loyal following.
Looking ahead, Cathy contemplates easing her load but remains far from retiring, while Sophie is committed to growing their legacy, carefully considering opportunities like a second location. For now, a winter refurbishment aims to freshen the beloved parlour’s look, ensuring Taste remains a vibrant fixture for years to come.
After ten years, what fuels Cathy’s ongoing passion? “The customers. The smiles. Compared to working in a hospice, it’s a joy.” She invites all newcomers: “This is the only place in the world you can get this ice cream. Come and try it.”