SigMT

SIGNATURE MONTANA | 23 Stepping into e Parrot Confectionery is like stepping back to a time when life's most challenging decisions revolved around what fillings you wanted in your chocolate. e shop features a soda fountain, a jukebox, and of course, the scrumptious treats that have satisfied the sweet tooth of devoted customers since 1922. Jonny Plichta purchased the Parrot in 2017 and is proud to carry on its legacy. "We've added a couple of candies here and there, but we mainly stick to how it's been working for 100 years," he says. Parrot Confectionery Confectioner Karlee Kleinschmidt makes many of the fondant wafers, almond buer toffee, and caramels using time-honored recipes while occasionally adding her own flare. When asked what she loves about being part of the historic Parrot, she replies, "It's a lile bit of magic that not everybody can do. Most people wake up thinking they have to go to work, and I wake up thinking I get to go to work." When the same question is posed to Jonny, he continues the reference to a beloved bygone era. "It's like a classic car that I'm driven to keep running. I'm just here to polish it up and keep it showroom quality." The 42 N Last Chance Gulch, Helena, MT • (406) 442-1470 Karlee Kleinschmidt is the only confectioner and makes everything that is not dipped in chocolate. Owner Jonny Plichta learned how to make candy when he purchased the shop in 2017 and is committed to continuing its century-old traditions. The Parrot Confectionery has been a staple in Helena's Last Chance Gulch for 100 years. Put together an assortment of dark and milk chocolates, dipped nuts and chews, and fondant wafers. The Parrot makes 130 different types of candy using recipes created by the original owners. Grab a stool and take a step back in time with a chocolate malt at the historic soda fountain while listening to the jukebox. Confectioner Karlee Kleinschmidt likes coming up with new candy recipes but makes sure they are in keeping with the shop's retro style.

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