AUSTIN (KXAN) –- For 31 years, Jim Moy and his family have been serving up sweet treats at Jim Jim’s Water Ice. But in a few months he’s saying goodbye.
Austinites might have seen the water ice cart at Deep Eddy or Barton Springs Pool. The community also might have stopped by his shop on Sixth Street, where Jim and his wife, Rachel, greet their customers with a smile.
After more than three decades, though, Moy said it’s time for him to retire. This is so he can spend more time with his family and said he will be closing the business permanently.
On Saturday, Moy put out a call for customers to stop for a “Big announcement.” That’s when he broke the news to his loyal customers.
“I will probably just cry,” said Micahel Lambert, who has been eating Jim Jim’s since he was a kid. “There is no replacement.”
How much longer do Austinites have to get water ice before they close?
Moy said they are expecting to close in September, but it could happen sooner if they run out of inventory.
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The community came out to Jim Jim’s Water Ice after the owner made a “big announcement.” (KXAN Photo: Nabil Ramadna) -
The community came out to Jim Jim’s Water Ice after the owner made a “big announcement.” (KXAN Photo: Nabil Ramadna) -
The community came out to Jim Jim’s Water Ice after the owner made a “big announcement.” (KXAN Photo: Nabil Ramadna)
Water ice is different from a snow cone — it’s characterized by a smooth, almost slushy texture and is made with real fruit and not syrup.
Many people remember Moy catering birthday parties or special gatherings, or stopping by schools in Austin to deliver his iconic water ice.
Moy said he has made many wonderful memories over the years and is thankful for all the messages he’s received.
When KXAN asked him if he would ever make water ice again, he said maybe for a special occasion.