A Sweet Curaçao Legacy: Ritz Ice Cream
In 1938, Otto Senior and his wife Rosalynde established the Ritz Ice Factory in Willemstad, Curaçao. Initially located on Heerenstraat, the factory was primarily set up to produce milk for U.S. soldiers stationed on the island. Recognizing the growing demand for dairy products, the couple soon expanded their venture by opening a soda fountain on Breedestraat, where locals and visitors alike could indulge in refreshing ice cream and beverages.
By 1947, The Ritz had grown substantially, leading to the establishment of a larger facility in the Scharloo district. In 1967, the family acquired the historic Max Lowenthal house at Scharlooweg No. 25, later expanding into No. 27. Over the next several decades, The Ritz became the largest ice cream factory in the Caribbean, producing not only ice cream but also sugar cones, ice cubes, milk, yogurt, and juices. Even international fast-food chains like McDonald's and Burger King sourced their milkshake mix from The Ritz. The factory's beloved products included flavors and novelties with whimsical names such as Pink Panther, Temptees, Papureshi, Screwball, and Palu Friwi.
The Ritz Ice Factory and its location in Scharloo hold deep ties to Curaçao's Jewish community, one of the oldest in the Americas. Scharloo, once a thriving Jewish neighborhood, was home to prominent Jewish merchants and entrepreneurs who played a crucial role in the island's economic and social development. The factory itself was housed in the former residence of Max Lowenthal, a member of Curaçao's Jewish community, before Otto Senior purchased the property. Many of the early employees and business associates of The Ritz were also of Jewish descent, reflecting the integral role the Jewish community played in commerce and industry on the island.
For decades, The Ritz was more than just a factory; it was a cherished gathering place for generations of Curaçaoans. Families fondly recall visiting the soda fountain, enjoying the island's best ice cream, and creating lifelong memories. Many locals worked at The Ritz, with some families having multiple generations employed there. A former employee, who worked in the front office for over 40 years, reminisced about how her daughter and niece also became part of The Ritz family. Another visitor shared childhood memories of running through the back lot and down Kaya Ritz to purchase his favorite ice cream.
After nearly 70 years of operation, The Ritz Ice Factory ceased production in 1999. In 2004, entrepreneur Hans Robben purchased the property and recognized its historical significance. He took on the task of preserving the industrial heritage of the factory while transforming it into The Ritz Village. The renovation kept many original elements intact, including the industrial steel supports, polished concrete floors, and antique fixtures. The buildings have been repurposed to maintain their historical integrity while serving modern functions.
Today, The Ritz hotel is a unique boutique hotel that blends the charm of Curaçao’s past with contemporary comforts. The former storage units have been converted into colorful hotel rooms, complete with kitchenettes and private bathrooms. The reception, car rental service, dive shop, mini-market, and laundry facilities are all located within the original small houses. The factory's iconic tower, once home to towering ice-making machines, remains a landmark within the village.
Guests can explore The Ritz Museum, which showcases audiovisual presentations, photographs, and artifacts chronicling the factory's history and its connection to the Jewish community of Scharloo. The museum offers a glimpse into Curaçao’s rich multicultural past and the influence of Jewish entrepreneurs on the island’s development.
The transformation of The Ritz from an ice cream factory to a thriving village is a testament to the vision of preserving history while embracing modernity. It remains a cherished landmark, where visitors can experience the nostalgia of the past and the vibrancy of Curaçao’s cultural heritage.
