This month we take a closer look at a restaurant that has graced Newberg since 1979. To many, the American dream stretches beyond home ownership, baseball, hotdogs, apple pie and Chevrolet to include hamburgers, hotdogs, oldies music and ice cream parlors. If the Ice Cream Parlors and 50’s are your soft spot, then Jem 100 should be on your list of places to experience.
Jem 100 was originally a western ice cream parlor named after Jewell Allstar Ice Cream, a Portland company. Dennis Day, Jem 100’s founder, was forced to change his business name after the Jewell was sold to new owners. At that time, he simply went out to his sign, turned the “w” upside down and made it and “m” then removed the “ell” and came up with his new name “Jem 100” which has remained to this day. A while later, Tom and Linda Vondrachek purchased the business in 1989 and made it their own family business to present day.
Originally designed as a western saloon they transitioned it to a 50’s theme in the early 2000’s. As you walk into Jem 100, you immediately feel the ambiance of a 50’s ice cream parlor. With red & white décor, vintage art posters, a juke box, the Betty Boop clock and oldies music playing softly in the background the atmosphere is set for a unique enjoyable dining experience.
Once known exclusively for their shakes & burgers, you’ll find a wide variety of menu options including Coney chili dogs, fish & chips, sweet potato fries, salads, 31 flavors of ice cream and so much more. Whatever your heart desires there’s certainly something to meet your fare. Tom and Linda Vondrachek along with their three children have faithfully used their business to serve the Newberg community and currently have 20 employees. They are celebrating 25 years of service this year and will be announcing special celebrations soon . . . stay tuned for more details.
As a Chehalem Valley Chamber member they are proud supporters of Relay for Life of Newberg, Celebration of Hope, the American Cancer Society, local schools, and many other events and fundraisers. They have participated in Newberg’s Old Fashioned Festival faithfully each year since 1989. Tom, a lifetime Newberg resident, along with his wife Linda, stated they are thankful for the opportunity to serve the community in which they were born and raised. This business serves as an example of their love and devotion to their community.
Be sure to stop by and treat your family to a unique 50’s treat, you’ll be glad you did!
Jem 100 is located on the west end of Newberg at 208 N. Main St., Newberg, OR 97132
(They share a parking lot with Papa Murphys.)
Phone: 503.538.6191
email: tom@jem100.com
website: www.jem100.com
