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The 16 Best Milkshakes in New York City

When it comes to indulging in a creamy and refreshing treat, nothing quite hits the spot like a delicious milkshake. In the bustling metropolis of New York City, where options abound, finding the perfect milkshake can be a delightful adventure for any enthusiast.

Whether you prefer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, or more adventurous combinations like salted caramel and red velvet, there is a milkshake for every taste bud in the Big Apple. From quaint neighborhood diners to trendy milkshake bars, the city offers a diverse array of options to satisfy your craving for this iconic drink.

Embark on a milkshake tasting journey through New York City and discover where you can find The 16 Best Milkshakes in the city that never sleeps.

How this guide is ordered

Chosen by our New York editors from places across the five boroughs, giving weight to a long track record with locals, current opening details and how well each one delivers on what it promises. Lists are revisited often; tell us when a spot closes or moves.

Featured businesses may pay for a more visible position within the guide.

Top 3Full listMapHow to choose

Compare 16 local options

Shake Shack Herald Square#1
What stands out
  • The food was served relatively quickly, especially considering how busy the restaurant was. Despite the rush, the taste of the food didn't disappoint, it was enjoyable overall.

  • My first time to Shake Shack! For the price and my expectation it was great value. I got the cheesy fries (yum, 4/5) and the Shackburger (5/5).

  • All staff are very friendly and hard-working, and the price is very reasonable for tourists.

  • Shake Shack is all about outstanding customer service! Food-wise they do not meet that standard of Excellence though but it was still great.

Shake Shack Herald Square

4.510,235 reviews
1333 Broadway, New York, NY 10018, United States

Shake Shack Herald Square is a popular Hamburger restaurant known for its fast service and delicious offerings. Customers rave about the prompt service, flavorful food, and overall convenience of the restaurant.

Customers appreciate the variety of options available, ranging from Delivery to Organic dishes, and the wheelchair-accessible entrance makes it an inclusive space for all. Shake Shack Herald Square is a solid choice for a quick and satisfying meal, whether for lunch, dinner, or solo dining.

Shake Shack Theater District#2

Shake Shack Theater District

4.413,698 reviews
691 8th Ave, New York, NY 10036, United States

Shake Shack Theater District is a popular hamburger restaurant located in New York. The establishment offers various service options such as delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Known for its fast service, Shake Shack is a great spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining.

Customer reviews highlight the diverse offerings and delicious food at Shake Shack. Some comments mention unique dishes like the Korean Style Fried Chicken Sandwich and the Korean BBQ Burger, which although not hitting the mark for everyone, showcase the restaurant's willingness to experiment with flavors. Others rave about the veggie burger and the mushroom burger, both perfect for vegetarians and providing a tasty alternative.

In summary, customers enjoy the diverse menu options, courteous service, and the comfortable atmosphere at Shake Shack Theater District. It's a great place for a quick bite or a casual meal with friends and family!

Shake Shack Madison Square Park#3
What stands out
  • A customer noted that the original Shack burger was not as good as before, although shakes and fries were still fine.

  • Another praised the fast and great service during a busy lunch rush, emphasizing the quality and freshness of the food.

  • One reviewer recommended the original Shake Shack location for its delicious food, quick service, and beautiful outdoor seating in Madison Square Park.

  • Finally, a visitor was pleasantly surprised by the outstanding burger quality and exceptional staff professionalism, enjoying every bite of their meal.

Shake Shack Madison Square Park

4.56,731 reviews
Madison Square Park, 23rd Street and, Madison Ave, New York, NY 10010, United States

Shake Shack Madison Square Park is a renowned hamburger restaurant located in the heart of New York City. This establishment offers a variety of service options, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy fast service in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

The restaurant is popular for lunch and dinner, making it an ideal spot for solo dining, families, groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, tourists, and university students. With a focus on providing delicious comfort food, Shake Shack Madison Square Park also offers vegetarian options, beer, wine, coffee, and late-night bites.

Visitors have praised the restaurant for its excellent balance of ingredients and the perfect preparation of its burgers. Some of the key points from customer reviews include:

If you find yourself in the area, don't miss the opportunity to visit Shake Shack Madison Square Park for a delightful dining experience in a vibrant setting.

Ray's Candy Store#4
What stands out
  • A cozy and nostalgic atmosphere that radiates neighborhood friendliness.

  • Must-try items like the fried oreos and pistachio soft serve.

  • Excellent service and top-notch food quality.

  • Reasonable prices and a variety of menu options to choose from.

Ray's Candy Store

4.71,107 reviews
113 Avenue A, New York, NY 10009, United States

Ray's Candy Store is a unique dessert shop located in New York, offering a variety of delicious treats. They provide service options such as delivery, in-store pick-up, and takeaway for their customers' convenience. Accessibility features include a wheelchair-accessible entrance to ensure everyone can enjoy their tasty offerings.

With a rating of 4.7, Ray's Candy Store has garnered positive reviews from many customers. Here are some key points from their reviews:

If you are in the East Village area and craving a sweet treat, Ray's Candy Store is a must-visit destination for a delightful dessert experience!

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer - SoHo#5
What stands out
  • Great meal options, friendly staff, and amazing milkshakes

  • Top-tier burgers, wonderful shakes, and friendly service

  • Tasty burgers and wings, flavorful shakes, but a service mistake

  • Delicious burgers, high-quality meat, and amazing mega shakes

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer - SoHo

4.44,537 reviews
529 Broome St, New York, NY 10013, United States

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer - SoHo is a renowned Hamburger restaurant located in New York City. The establishment offers a variety of service options such as outdoor seating, no-contact delivery, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers can enjoy a range of highlights including fast service, great cocktails, great dessert, and sports entertainment.

This restaurant is well-known for being a popular spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. Customers appreciate the accessibility offered with options like a wheelchair-accessible toilet. The diverse offerings include alcohol, beer, cocktails, coffee, comfort food, and more. Whether you're looking for brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert, or small plates, Black Tap has you covered.

The amenities include a bar on site and clean toilets, creating a welcoming atmosphere that is casual, cozy, and trendy. The restaurant caters to a diverse crowd, including families, groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, tourists, and university students. While there is usually a wait for a table, the restaurant does not accept reservations as part of their planning strategy.

Customers have shared their experiences through reviews, highlighting the friendly staff, great food, and delicious milkshakes. Some key points from the reviews include:

Overall, Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer - SoHo is a must-visit destination for burger enthusiasts and those looking for a casual dining experience in the heart of SoHo.

Shake Shack Upper West Side#6
What stands out
  • Delicious food

  • Quick service

  • Friendly staff

Shake Shack Upper West Side

4.37,743 reviews
366 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024, United States

Shake Shack Upper West Side is a popular hamburger restaurant located in New York. They offer a variety of services and features to enhance the dining experience for their customers. Some of the service options include outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. Customers appreciate the fast service provided by the restaurant.

The restaurant is known for being a great spot for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. In terms of offerings, they have a range of options including alcohol, beer, coffee, comfort food, late-night food, quick bites, and vegetarian choices. The dining options available are lunch, dinner, dessert, and seating.

Shake Shack Upper West Side offers a casual and trendy atmosphere, making it an ideal place for various crowds including groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, tourists, transgender individuals, and university students. Despite the restaurant usually having a wait, it does not accept reservations.

Customers rave about the delicious food, quick service, and friendly staff at Shake Shack Upper West Side. They emphasize the mouthwatering burgers, convenient delivery options, and overall enjoyable dining experience.

Experience the excellence of Shake Shack Upper West Side today!

Shake Shack Battery Park City#7
What stands out
  • Disappointing experience with dry buns, tasteless fries, and not-so-fresh lettuce.

  • Terrible quality burgers with black lettuce and hard buns.

  • Efficient service but disorganized atmosphere with unhappy staff.

  • Delicious burgers, fast service, refillable drinks, and good ambiance.

Shake Shack Battery Park City

4.33,502 reviews
215 Murray St, New York, NY 10282, United States

Shake Shack Battery Park City is a popular hamburger restaurant located in New York. Known for its fast service, this spot is ideal for those looking for a quick bite. The restaurant offers various service options like outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in facilities. It is highly favored for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The casual and trendy atmosphere attracts various groups of customers, including tourists and university students.

With a rating of 4.3, based on 3502 reviews, Shake Shack Battery Park City has received mixed feedback from customers. Here are some summarized reviews:

Shake Shack Astor Place#8
What stands out
  • The burgers are juicy and flavorful, with perfectly complementing toppings and sides.

  • The modern atmosphere and attentive staff contribute to a great dining experience.

  • Though it can get crowded, the overall experience is highly recommended by customers.

Shake Shack Astor Place

4.32,130 reviews
20 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10003, United States

Shake Shack Astor Place is a popular Hamburger restaurant located in New York, offering a variety of delicious burgers, sides, and shakes. Customers rave about the juicy and flavorful burgers, alongside the modern atmosphere and attentive staff that create a great dining experience.

With a solid rating of 4.3, Shake Shack Astor Place offers delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it a must-visit spot for burger lovers in the area.

Shake Shack Grand Central Terminal#9
What stands out
  • Delicious burgers with packed flavors and crunchy shroom patty

  • Great brioche bun that adds a unique taste to the burgers

  • Smooth and creamy shakes like cookies and cream and malt

Shake Shack Grand Central Terminal

4.22,899 reviews
Lower Level Dining Concourse, 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, United States

Shake Shack Grand Central Terminal is a popular hamburger restaurant located at Lower Level Dining Concourse, 89 E 42nd St, New York, NY, United States. With a rating of 4.2 stars based on 2899 reviews, this place is known for its delicious burgers and fast service.

Customers have raved about Shake Shack Grand Central Terminal, summarizing their experience in a few key points:

The restaurant offers a variety of service options including takeaway and dine-in. It is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining. The atmosphere is described as casual and trendy, attracting groups, tourists, and university students. Customers can enjoy amenities like toilets and seating, making their dining experience comfortable.

If you're looking for high-quality fast-food burgers in a convenient location like Grand Central Station, Shake Shack Grand Central Terminal is the place to be.

Shake Shack Bryant Park#10
What stands out
  • One customer found the veggie burger to be underwhelming and experienced slow service when ordering a beer.

  • Another noted issues with ordering and receiving their food, as well as encountering rude behavior from other customers.

  • On the positive side, one customer praised the delicious burgers while mentioning the limited seating options.

Shake Shack Bryant Park

4.2786 reviews
120 W 42nd St Suite-Retail C, New York, NY 10036, United States

Shake Shack Bryant Park is a popular Hamburger restaurant located in New York. The business offers a variety of services and features to its customers, including Outdoor seating, Delivery, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Known for its Fast service, Shake Shack Bryant Park is a go-to spot for those looking for a quick and delicious meal.

Customers have left a range of reviews for Shake Shack Bryant Park. Some key points from their feedback include:

Overall, Shake Shack Bryant Park offers a tasty menu with quick service for those looking to enjoy a classic hamburger experience in the heart of New York City.

Kith Treats#11
What stands out
  • Unique concept blending childhood cereals with ice cream

  • Wide variety of toppings and flavors to choose from

  • Quick service and a great vibe in the store

Kith Treats

4.574 reviews
337 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Kith Treats is a popular ice cream shop located in New York. They offer a variety of service options including delivery, takeaway, and dine-in. The store is wheelchair-accessible, and they accept credit cards for payments, making it convenient for all customers.

Customers have raved about their experiences at Kith Treats. Here are some key points from their reviews:

One customer mentioned that their favorite treat includes frosted flakes, cocoa puffs, mini marshmallows, and crushed oreos - a combination that is both delicious and nostalgic. Another customer appreciated the option of non-dairy ice cream for those who are lactose intolerant. With a rating of 4.5 stars based on 74 reviews, Kith Treats is a must-visit for ice cream lovers looking for a unique and tasty experience.

Soft Swerve#12
What stands out
  • The soft serve is great, with fresh and flavorful options like Strawberry Lychee and Thai tea.

  • Customers appreciate the uniqueness of the ice cream flavors and the ample topping choices.

  • Prices may be on the higher side but are considered worth it for the quality and taste.

Soft Swerve

4.4126 reviews
379 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10016, United States

Soft Swerve is a popular ice cream shop in New York, offering a unique selection of both soft serve and hard ice cream flavors. Customers can enjoy a wide variety of toppings and cones, although there are no vegan options available. The soft serve options include delicious Asian-inspired flavors like Strawberry Lychee, Thai tea, and Ube.

With a rating of 4.4 and numerous positive reviews highlighting the delicious flavors, good customer service, and enjoyable experience, Soft Swerve is a must-visit for ice cream lovers looking for something a little different.

Softside#13
What stands out
  • Customers love the strawberry and pistachio swirl for its perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors.

  • Many appreciate the outdoor seating options and the diverse milkshake and sundae menu.

  • Some customers find the combination of chocolate with honey and olive oil to be a unique and delightful experience.

  • Overall, Softside is recognized for its friendly staff and delicious soft serve, with some suggesting minor price adjustments to enhance the experience further.

Softside

4.3139 reviews
51 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, United States

Softside is a popular ice cream shop located in New York, offering a variety of soft serve flavors and toppings. Customers rave about the delicious soft serve options and the generous helpings they receive. With a rating of 4.3 out of 5, Softside has managed to capture the hearts of many ice cream lovers.

Holey Cream#14
What stands out
  • We got here at night time and the donuts were soft and fresh. The worker made delicious donuts with various toppings. (5 stars)

  • Create your own donut with lots of options. The friendly worker helped with choices, highly recommended. (4 stars)

  • Donut ice cream sandwich is a must-try, flavors like mint chocolate chip, s’mores, and Hotel Black are delicious. (5 stars)

  • Generous with samples and unique ice cream flavors. Donut should be warm for a better experience. (5 stars)

Holey Cream

3.9819 reviews
791 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019, United States

Holey Cream is a delightful ice cream shop located in New York. They offer various service options like no-contact delivery, in-store shopping, and takeaway. Customers can indulge in unique flavors of ice cream and create their own donut ice cream sandwich. The workers are sweet and attentive, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Visit Holey Cream for a memorable experience filled with delightful treats and excellent service!

Creamline#15
What stands out
  • Burgers are amazing, especially the steakhouse burgers, though some find the sweet potato fries a bit overcooked.

  • Great place to grab a quick bite with a reasonably short wait time and ample seating.

  • Excellent sweet potato fries and buffalo chicken sandwich, perfect for a fulfilling meal.

  • Thick and creamy milkshakes, with the ability to mix flavors, making them a unique treat.

Creamline

3.9580 reviews
75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States

Creamline is an iconic American restaurant located in New York, offering a variety of delectable dishes for its customers. The restaurant provides multiple service options like delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, ensuring that customers can enjoy their favorite meals wherever they prefer. Known for its fast service and great dessert options, Creamline is a popular choice for those looking for a quick and tasty meal.

Customers have shared their positive experiences at Creamline, highlighting a few key points:

Whether you're looking for a delightful lunch or a satisfying dinner, Creamline offers a fantastic dining experience with a variety of options to choose from. Visit Creamline in Chelsea Market to savor the flavors of American cuisine in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

ShakeTop Milkshakes#16
What stands out
  • This is not a real place- someone is running this "shake shop" out of their apartment - just check the address. There's no way this place is held to restaurant standards of cleanliness. Worse than a ghost kitchen, this is probably illegal.

  • Awesome shakes and ice cream finally We Have a Treat to look Forward Too. Thank you So Much Shaketop!

  • Best milkshake I’ve ever had

ShakeTop Milkshakes

3.73 reviews
75 Montgomery St, New York, NY 10002, United States

ShakeTop Milkshakes is an ice cream shop located in New York that offers a variety of delicious shakes and treats. Customers can enjoy kerbside pickup, no-contact delivery, or takeaway options. The shop prides itself on being family-friendly, LGBTQ+ friendly, and a transgender safe space, ensuring that everyone feels welcome.

The shop has received a 3.7 rating based on customer reviews. Some key points from customers include:

Visit ShakeTop Milkshakes for a great dessert experience!

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Shake Shack Herald Square 4.510,235
#2Shake Shack Theater District 4.413,698
#3Shake Shack Madison Square Park 4.56,731
#4Ray's Candy Store 4.71,107
#5Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer - SoHo 4.44,537
#6Shake Shack Upper West Side 4.37,743
#7Shake Shack Battery Park City 4.33,502
#8Shake Shack Astor Place 4.32,130
#9Shake Shack Grand Central Terminal 4.22,899
#10Shake Shack Bryant Park 4.2786
#11Kith Treats 4.574
#12Soft Swerve 4.4126
#13Softside 4.3139
#14Holey Cream 3.9819
#15Creamline 3.9580
#16ShakeTop Milkshakes 3.73

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Map of Milkshakes in New York City

New York City is known for its diverse culinary scene, and one beloved treat that can be found throughout the city is milkshakes. From classic vanilla and chocolate flavors to unique creations like peanut butter and jelly or red velvet, there are countless options to satisfy any craving. Check out the map below to discover some of the best milkshake spots in the city.

How to choose Milkshakes in New York City

  1. Quality of ingredients.
  2. Variety of flavors.
  3. Price point.
  4. Atmosphere of the establishment.
  5. Convenience of location.
  6. Customer reviews and ratings.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I find the best milkshakes in New York City?

If you are looking for the best milkshakes in New York City, be sure to check out Black Tap, known for their over-the-top, Instagram-worthy creations. Other popular spots include Shake Shack, Big Gay Ice Cream, and Brooklyn Farmacy & Soda Fountain. For a more unique experience, try OddFellows Ice Cream Co. for innovative flavors or Emack & Bolio's for their signature ice cream-based milkshakes. No matter where you go, you're sure to find a delicious milkshake that will satisfy your craving in the bustling city of New York.

Are there any dairy-free options for milkshakes in New York City?

If you are looking for dairy-free milkshake options in New York City, fear not! Many establishments offer alternative milk choices such as almond, soy, coconut, or oat milk. Popular spots for dairy-free milkshakes include by CHLOE, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, and Sweets by CHLOE. These locations specialize in plant-based desserts, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a creamy, indulgent milkshake in the city. Whether you are vegan, lactose intolerant, or just prefer dairy-free options, New York City has a variety of delicious milkshakes for you to try.

What are some unique milkshake flavors I can try in New York City?

When it comes to unique milkshake flavors in New York City, the options are endless. Black Tap is known for their extravagant creations, including flavors like Cake Batter, Sweet N' Salty, and Cotton Candy. For a more adventurous palate, try Milk & Cream Cereal Bar for cereal-infused milkshakes like Cap'n Crunch Berries or Lucky Charms. Big Gay Ice Cream also offers unconventional flavors such as Salty Pimp and Bea Arthur. Whether you prefer classic flavors or want to step out of your comfort zone, New York City has a milkshake flavor for every taste bud to enjoy.

Can I find boozy milkshakes in New York City?

If you're looking for a fun twist on traditional milkshakes, be sure to check out the boozy milkshake scene in New York City. Black Tap offers spiked milkshakes like the Bam Bam Shake with vodka or the Cake Shake with cake-flavored vodka. Other spots known for their boozy creations include JG Melon with their PIER 10 spiked shake and Booze Brothers for a variety of alcohol-infused milkshakes. Whether you're in the mood for a sweet treat with a kick or just want to enjoy a cocktail with a twist, New York City has a diverse selection of boozy milkshakes to choose from.

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