David Strickler popularized the banana split at a Pennsylvania soda fountain in 1904.
Strickler was a pharmacist and soda-fountain operator in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. The dessert traditionally places a split banana lengthwise in a dish with scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream, followed by toppings such as sauces, whipped cream, nuts, and a cherry.
The banana split’s origin is often linked specifically to Strickler, but food-history claims can vary because similar ice-cream combinations may have appeared elsewhere. Latrobe nevertheless remains strongly associated with the dessert and has commemorated Strickler’s role.
The banana split is different from a sundae in its signature presentation: the banana is split lengthwise and arranged beneath or beside the scoops. Ingredient combinations can vary, but the three-flavor arrangement is the classic version.