Nestled right on the beach, Schultzy's Snack Shack in Portsmouth has been a beacon of joy and community spirit for the past 12 years. Owned by Kurt and Deborah Schultz, this vibrant spot has transformed from a stone workers shop into a bustling ice cream and snack haven. Known for its warm, family-friendly atmosphere, Schultzy's offers more than just treats — it's a place where positivity and learning go hand in hand. 

Deborah prides herself on creating a nurturing environment where young employees, often experiencing their first jobs, receive thorough training. When she is hiring workers, she looks for those who can easily switch from one task to another: taking orders at the window, scooping, serving can get hectic. New employees must be able to switch gears quickly and not get frustrated. Beyond just scooping ice cream, Deborah makes a plan with each employee helping them achieve their academic or employment goals — getting to college, graduating, getting into a training program or whatever is important to the employee. 

Because it’s important to the business and to the kids, Deborah emphasizes how to do every job “the right way,” from food safety and personal development. As Deborah put it, “I focus on the particulars and also on the person themselves.” Her experience has shown her that each employee learns through a blend of visual, practical, and theoretical instruction. She leans into that experience, by first showing the new employee how to do the job, then doing it with them, then letting them try for themselves. “Everything they do right, I'll go, ‘ding, ding.’ Everything they do wrong, I'll say, ‘illegal maneuver,’ and ask them to tell me why,” Deborah said, emphasizing the positivity in training. Spirit Week is another training highlight, where fun games and competitions, like scooping the perfect 3-ounce ice cream, bring excitement, skills and camaraderie to the team. 

Schultzy’s boasts a broad and enticing selection of ice cream flavors, including coffee shake, a rich blend with four scoops of ice cream, making it a top seller. Other interesting flavors include s’mores, black raspberry chip, and sea salt caramel truffle ice creams. New flavors are added when customers ask. New this year is cotton candy. But even after 12 years, Deborah is still surprised by her customers. “How many people like vanilla over chocolate? It's two to one. And I thought it would be just the opposite,” she said.

In addition to offering ice cream, soft serve and dairy-free options, Schultzy’s Snack Shack is renowned for its homemade specialties. These include fresh waffle cones, caramel sauce and summertime meals prepared on-site by Kurt Schultz, such as clam chowder, fish and chips, and the chicken bacon ranch sandwich.

When you go, try their caramel truffle sundae, featuring sea salt caramel truffle ice cream, homemade caramel sauce, fresh whipped cream, finished off with diced walnuts and a maraschino cherry. Want a shake instead? Just ask, and they'll blend it up for you.