New creamery and auto spa bring pride and services to Concord Township - The News-Herald
Two new establishments in the growing commercial district of Concord Township have officially opened their doors.
An event celebrating the launch of Little Mountain Creamery and Johnny’s Auto Spa & Detail on Crile Road took place recently. Owners Brandon Dynes and John Nekic and their families, as well as local officials and others affiliated with the project were in attendance.
The idea for the businesses came about a few years ago when Dynes and Nekic, both of Concord Township, were simply enjoying a social evening. “We talked about it over drinks one night…and then this happened,” Dynes said as he gestured toward the completed structures. He added that they “needed to be something beautiful. We wanted our neighbors to be proud and we wanted to be proud.”
Designed and built by Marous Brothers Construction of Willoughby, the creamery and auto spa are located just south of Capital Parkway.
Jared Freeman, general manager of the design build, commented on the distinctive, modern facilities situated on 2 ½ acres, stating that “They’re architecturally interesting and the landscaping ties them together. They were both fun buildings to build.”
Mike Harford served as the project’s architect.
Named after the township’s historic Little Mountain area, the creamery is described as a rustic- modern space and boasts an open dining area seating 28 guests. Expansive windows, a 20-foot-high cedar-faced ceiling and special cabinetry imported from Italy are featured. An outdoor patio provides additional seating along with tall, stone pillars and a fireplace. For patrons’ convenience a walk-up window and drive-thru services are also available.
Menu items focus on artisanal gelato and sorbetto made daily and include vegan, non-dairy and gluten-free options. Gelato differs from ice cream in that it’s served at a slightly warmer temperature and contains a different balance of ingredients resulting in a denser texture and richer flavor.
Cinnamon apple pie, lemon/blueberry and milk + honey are a few flavors currently featured.
Wives Heather Dynes and Keri Nekic have been instrumental in helping to bring the project to fulfillment.
“We love using locally sourced natural ingredients in our recipes…we have used locally grown peaches and pumpkins, blueberries from a local blueberry bog, local syrup and even my mom’s honey from her hive,” Heather noted.
In addition to single offerings, those seeking to sample several flavors may order flights with four mini-or large-sized cones. Regular and specialty coffees are also available.
Little Mountain Creamery is open from noon to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays.
Concord Township Administrator Andy Rose is pleased with the area’s newest addition.
“At one point a creamery was thee most requested business,” Rose said. “I think the ownership team went above and beyond. They excelled in quality.” Inspiration for Johnny’s Auto Spa & Detail stemmed from Nekic’s passion for cars.
“Today is such an exciting day to see a longtime dream of building a truly exemplary car wash and detail center come to fruition. I am thrilled,” he said.
The 6,300 square-foot facility features a 145-foot-long car wash conveyor tunnel and a comprehensive detail center with four full-service bays. Neoglide soft cloths, Graphene protectant and extended drying time enhanced by ten 15-horsepower blowers are used to optimize cleanliness, shine and coating.
Sustainable practices are used throughout. Advanced systems reclaim, filter and deodorize water. Chemicals are environmentally friendly and biodegradable.
Lake County Auditor Christopher Galloway was among those who attended the event and expressed his satisfaction with the innovative establishments. “I think John and Brandon have built two beautiful facilities…really world class and a lot for
Concord to be proud of,” he said.
For more information on the businesses, visit www.johnnysautospa.com and www.lmcreamery.com.