If you felt a tremor in Kingston Saturday last, blame it on Peter and Philip Azar, who, having acquired the Tutti Frutti franchise, opened the country’s first outlet at Loshusan in Barbican to rave reviews. Interpret this to mean a non-stop flow of frozen yoghurt enthusiasts and ear-to-ear grins from elated children and adults.

“I started out as a customer,” shared the elegantly affable Peter Azar during an evening with the Jamaica Observer Food Awards judges. “And I just fell in love with the self-serve concept and the whole healthy philosophy of the Tutti Frutti corporation. The self-serve concept intrigued me as an owner and empowered me as a customer… so even the start-up costs were out of this world! I thought Jamaica would appreciate it.”

That would be an understatement! The cosy 1,200-square foot, Judy Azar-designed interior of Tutti Frutti was at capacity Monday evening with patrons enjoying the numerous flavours of frozen yoghurt, especially the original tart which pairs perfectly with fruits. The mango sorbet, which is super-refreshing, the no-sugar-added vanilla (for obvious reasons), the rich and creamy chocolate, pomegranate and the tart and creamy strawberry.

The interior is, however, not the only place to have fun. Azar has also created a fabulous piazza. “We just wanted to make it a cool place to hang out: modern and clean-cut, with WiFi and music and a great vibe.”

Azar is contemplating opening in Montego Bay, too. “MoBay is in discussion,” he reveals. “The main priority, however, is quality control… no growth without quality control.”

Indeed, quality control might well mean an additional two weeks of training in Los Angeles and another here based on the buzz Tutti Frutti has already generated. Well worth it, we reckon.

(Photos: Lionel Rookwood)