16 of the best milkshakes in New York City
Milkshakes in New York City are a popular treat for both locals and tourists. From classic flavors to innovative creations, milkshakes in NYC offer something for everyone. Indulge in a thick and creamy shake topped with whipped cream, or try a unique flavor combination that you can't find anywhere else. No matter what you choose, milkshakes in New York City are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
- 1. Shake Shack Theater District
- 2. Schnipper's
- 3. Shake Shack Fulton Transit CTR - Manhattan
- 4. Shake Shack Midtown East
- 5. Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer - SoHo
- 6. Shake Shack Madison Square Park
- 7. Ray's Candy Store
- 8. 5 Napkin Burger
- 9. Milk Bar
- 10. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
- 11. Soft Swerve
- 12. The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory
- 13. Shake Shack Astor Place
- 14. Shake Shack Bryant Park
- 15. Creamline
- 16. ShakeTop Milkshakes
1. Shake Shack Theater District
Stand for Something Good™ with premium ingredients and uplifting experiences

Shake Shack's hand-spun milkshakes are truly a delight. Their thick and creamy consistency, combined with a rich and velvety texture, make for a satisfying and indulgent treat. The flavors are well-balanced and robust, with a variety of options to choose from that are sure to please any palate. Whether you're in the mood for classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate, or something more adventurous like salted caramel or black and white, Shake Shack's milkshakes do not disappoint.
The quality of the ingredients used in these milkshakes is also impressive. Made with Shake Shack's own dense and creamy frozen custard, the milkshakes are a step above your average fast food shake. The attention to detail in the preparation of these milkshakes is evident, with each one being hand-spun to order. This results in a fresh and delicious drink that is worth every penny. Shake Shack's milkshakes are a must-try for anyone looking for a top-notch dessert experience.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Social Gatherings
- Vegetarian Options
- Affordable Nightlife
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2. Schnipper's
Classic American comfort food with a twist

The burgers at this establishment are truly delectable, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience for any burger enthusiast. The service team is commendable for their friendliness and attention to detail, making the dining experience even more enjoyable. Furthermore, the cleanliness of the restaurant is noteworthy, contributing to the overall positive atmosphere.
Designed with ample windows, the restaurant provides an excellent opportunity for patrons to combine their meal with a bit of people-watching. Adding a frothy mug of beer to the equation only enhances the overall experience, making it an ideal spot for those looking for a place to enjoy good food and a lively atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a place to unwind after a long day, this establishment fits the bill.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
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3. Shake Shack Fulton Transit CTR - Manhattan
Stand for Something Good™

Shake Shack is renowned for its delicious milkshakes, which are widely regarded as some of the best in the business. These shakes are incredibly thick and rich, with a velvety smoothness that is simply irresistible. Whether you prefer classic flavors like vanilla and chocolate or more adventurous options like salted caramel and mint cookie, Shake Shack has something to satisfy every palate.
One of the things that sets Shake Shack's milkshakes apart is the high-quality ingredients they use. They start with a base of premium, full-fat ice cream that is made in-house daily, then add a generous amount of natural flavorings and toppings. The result is a milkshake that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying, with a richness and depth of flavor that is unmatched by other fast-food chains. Whether you're in the mood for a sweet treat or a decadent dessert, Shake Shack's milkshakes are the perfect choice.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
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4. Shake Shack Midtown East
Stand for Something Good™ - premium ingredients and uplifting experiences.

The Black and White Shake is an absolute must-try for anyone looking for a delicious and unique treat. This remarkable creation is not only visually appealing but also offers a perfect balance of flavors. The combination of rich chocolate and creamy vanilla perfectly encapsulates the classic black and white aesthetic. It's an enjoyable experience that will leave you craving more.
Fortunately, the wait time for this delectable shake is quite minimal, allowing you to relish the flavors without delay. Moreover, the restaurant's commitment to providing speedy service doesn't compromise the taste or presentation of their food and drinks. This is a fantastic option for those who want a quick and satisfying escape from their usually hectic lifestyles. So, waste no time, and give the Black and White Shake a try!
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
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5. Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer - SoHo
Award-winning burgers and over-the-top milkshakes

The culinary offerings at this establishment are generally impressive, with one minor exception: the hot chicken dish could benefit from an increase in spice levels. Despite this, the food as a whole is deserving of high praise.
The milkshakes, in particular, have gained significant attention for the establishment. These are not your average milkshakes - they are large, extravagant creations topped with indulgent treats such as entire slices of cake, jelly doughnuts, or Oreo cookie sandwiches. These impressive shakes alone are worth a visit.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
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6. Shake Shack Madison Square Park
A taste of New York's favorite burger joint

The milkshakes offered by this establishment are truly exceptional. They stand out for their rich and full-bodied flavor, which is sure to satisfy even the most discerning of palates.
One cannot overstate the appeal of the hand-spun milkshakes. With their velvety smooth texture and delicious taste, they are an absolute must-try for any visitor. The care and attention put into each shake are evident in every sip.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Downtown Spots
- Lunch
- Dinner
7. Ray's Candy Store
Iconic East Village spot for sweet treats

Ray's milkshakes are a beloved treat in New York City, known for their rich and creamy texture. The chocolate and vanilla flavors are customer favorites, providing a delightful experience for those seeking a sweet indulgence. These milkshakes make for an excellent late-night snack or a satisfying dessert after a meal.
Ray's Candy Store's milkshakes have garnered an outstanding reputation among locals and visitors alike. Their thick and flavorful consistency sets them apart from the rest. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a repeat patron, these milkshakes are a must-try. The unmistakable quality and taste of Ray's milkshakes make them a top choice for those seeking a satisfying and delicious treat in NYC.
TOPICS
- Vegan Options
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
8. 5 Napkin Burger
Hell's Kitchen favorite burger spot

A delightful dining experience awaits at this NYC establishment, offering top-notch food and service. If you're in search of a satisfying burger, look no further. The friendly staff and extensive menu are sure to impress.
The establishment boasts an inviting atmosphere and reasonable prices, making it an excellent choice for any meal. From start to finish, the service is exceptional, and the delicious food is always of high quality. Whether you're a foodie or just looking for a great meal, this place is sure to exceed your expectations.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Dinner
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9. Milk Bar
Innovative desserts that redefine sweetness

The cereal milk soft serve offers a delightful and nostalgic experience for those who try it. Its creamy texture and balanced sweetness make it a standout option for dessert lovers.
On the other hand, the pretzel soft serve is a unique and delicious choice for those seeking something out of the ordinary. However, for some, the cereal milk soft serve may be too sweet, although it remains a must-try for its indulgent and nostalgic flavor.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
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10. Van Leeuwen Ice Cream
Artisanal ice cream in the East Village

The malted milkshakes on offer are truly a delight. Their creamy texture and rich, velvety finish make for a satisfying treat. Among the various flavors available, the Malted Cookie Dough Milkshake stands out as a must-try. This innovative creation combines the classic taste of cookie dough with the smooth, malty undertones of a milkshake, resulting in a truly unique and delicious beverage.
Once you take a sip of the Malted Cookie Dough Milkshake, you'll understand why it's so highly regarded. The combination of flavors is expertly balanced, with the sweetness of the cookie dough perfectly offset by the subtle bitterness of the malt. The consistency is also spot-on, with just the right amount of thickness to make each sip a pleasure. Fans of milkshakes and cookie dough alike are sure to be impressed by this delectable treat.
TOPICS
- Personal Celebrations
- Mexican Cuisine
- Lunch
11. Soft Swerve
Unique and whimsical soft serve ice cream

The ube soft serve, while tasty, didn't quite rank as the best ever tasted. However, on a recent visit, the black sesame soft serve was available, and it truly delighted the taste buds. The subtle flavor of black sesame was expertly balanced and complemented by the creamy, nutty texture of tiny, ground black sesame specks.
All six of us opted for different flavors, allowing us to sample a vast array. Each selection was fantastic and showcased distinct, powerful flavors that were easily identifiable upon first taste. Service was prompt and efficient, adding to the enjoyable experience.
TOPICS
- Asian Cuisine
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Vegan Options
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12. The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory
A taste of authentic Asian flavors in NYC

A visit to this iconic NYC dessert shop is sure to be a memorable experience. Known for their creative and unique flavors, this parlor offers an exciting departure from traditional frozen treats. With options ranging from vibrant matcha to fragrant lavender, there is something to delight every palate. The high-quality ingredients used in each creation are evident in the rich and intense taste that lingers on the tongue.
Not only are the flavors innovative, but the texture of the treats is also incredibly satisfying. The smooth and silky consistency of the ice cream perfectly complements the crunch of the waffle cones. Whether enjoyed on a hot summer day or as a sweet treat after dinner, these frosty creations are sure to impress. Even the most discerning dessert lovers will find themselves impressed by the exceptional quality and bold flavors. With its combination of creativity, quality, and unique Asian-inspired flavors, this dessert spot has earned its place as a beloved NYC institution.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Budget-Friendly Eats
- Hidden Gems
13. Shake Shack Astor Place
Stand for Something Good™

The milkshakes at this establishment are truly exceptional. One standout option is the salted caramel milkshake, which delivers a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors. It's a must-try for any milkshake aficionado.
Indeed, the milkshakes here are a study in balanced sweetness. Each sip offers a harmonious blend of flavors that is sure to satisfy. The variety of milkshake options is also impressive, providing something for every taste preference.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Lunch
14. Shake Shack Bryant Park
Elevated American classics with premium ingredients.

Exceptional milkshakes can be found in New York City, with a perfect blend of flavors and a smooth texture that sets them apart. These delectable drinks are a favorite among locals and visitors alike, with the chocolate and vanilla flavors being particularly popular.
The quality of the ingredients used in these milkshakes is evident from the first sip, as they are rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced. Whether you prefer a classic flavor or something more adventurous, these milkshakes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more. The milkshakes' smooth texture makes them easy to enjoy, and their generous size ensures that you'll be satisfied with every order.
TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
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15. Creamline

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Cheap Eats
- Vegetarian Options
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16. ShakeTop Milkshakes

TOPICS
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
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