How A Military Vet Turned Homesickness Into A Texas Lemonade Business

In the latest episode of the Leander Scoop podcast, host TJ Larkin sits down with Steve D'Amico, owner of Dell's Lemonade in Cedar Park. This refreshing conversation reveals how a beloved 75-year-old Rhode Island tradition has made its way to Central Texas, offering locals a natural frozen treat perfect for those scorching summer days.

From Military Service to Sweet Success: Steve D'Amico's Journey

Steve D'Amico, a military veteran who relocated to Cedar Park from Rhode Island in 2020, spotted an opportunity to bring something special to his new hometown. After experiencing a couple of Texas summers, he realized the area lacked the natural frozen refreshment he grew up with in the Northeast.

"Dell's goes back to Italy. The original great-great-grandfather was a lemon farmer in Naples who would keep his lemons packed with snow in wintertime. Eventually, he started taking pieces of the rind and juice, mixing with cane sugar and fruit, and serving this drink around Naples," explains D'Amico.

Dell's Lemonade isn't just any frozen drink. It's an all-natural, soft-frozen lemonade made with real fruit, cane sugar, and water. What sets it apart from other frozen treats is its commitment to natural ingredients—even the colors come from teas and plants rather than artificial dyes.

A Natural Alternative in a World of Artificial Options

One of the standout features of Dell's Lemonade is its commitment to health-conscious ingredients without sacrificing flavor. The frozen treat offers a refreshing alternative to typical slushies and ice drinks loaded with artificial ingredients.

"When moms with kids with allergies come in, they can get their kids a treat without worrying about particular dyes or high fructose corn syrup," D'Amico shares. "It's essentially the same consistency of a 7-Eleven Slurpee, but it's not filled with a ridiculous amount of chemicals."

Dell's currently offers six signature flavors: lemon, watermelon, peach, mango, blueberry, cherry, lemon tea, and tangerine orange. And yes, D'Amico mentions that adults often enjoy mixing in their favorite spirits for a grown-up frozen cocktail.

Building a Local Presence in Cedar Park and Beyond

Dell's Lemonade has established its brick-and-mortar location at 1525 Cypress Creek Road in Cedar Park, on the corner of Cypress Creek and Lake Line. But the business isn't limited to its storefront—they've embraced a mobile approach with two portable frozen carts.

"We do Leander Little League games, Cedar Park Little League games, farmers markets, and we cater private events," says D'Amico. The business has become a fixture at local community gatherings, from pool parties to wedding receptions.

Their bright yellow sign—"Stop at the sign of the lemon"—has become increasingly recognizable to locals since their grand opening in March 2023. After taking January and February off (because as D'Amico notes, "no one buys lemonade when it's frigid out"), they're celebrating their grand reopening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony with both Leander and Cedar Park Chambers of Commerce.

Growing Roots in a Growing Community

When asked about opening a franchise in his new hometown, D'Amico reflects on the challenges and rewards. "The hard thing is actually building a steady customer base because we're an unknown commodity," he admits. Despite this challenge, the business has found a welcoming community in Cedar Park and Leander.

D'Amico embraces the rapid growth of the area, seeing opportunity rather than obstacles. "I'm in favor of it because you start to get new opportunities and meet new people and do different things. When businesses come to town, there's something for everyone here in Cedar Park and Leander."

As a transplant from the Northeast, D'Amico appreciates the Texas weather, friendly people, and sense of community he's found. His experience mirrors the changes happening throughout the region—bringing fresh perspectives and new traditions to an evolving landscape.

Listen to the Full Episode

Want to hear more about Steve's journey from Rhode Island to Texas and how Dell's Lemonade is making its mark on the community? Listen to the full episode of the Leander Scoop podcast for more insights on entrepreneurship, community growth, and of course, the story behind this unique frozen treat that's quickly becoming a local favorite.

Whether you're looking for a nostalgic taste of Rhode Island or simply seeking a natural alternative to typical frozen drinks, Dell's Lemonade offers a refreshing experience that reflects the spirit of innovation and community that defines Cedar Park and Leander.