For this Christmas edition of Guide to Greenwich, we ventured to three different locations in search of the best holiday milkshakes.  

Chick-fil-A

Our first stop was Chick-fil-A in Norwalk, Connecticut.  As we entered the fast food restaurant, we noticed friends and families enjoying their meals at each table.  The restaurant was busy, but luckily, we did not have to wait in a long line to order.  At the cash register, enthusiastic staff members greeted us, which brightened our spirits.  For $5.15 we purchased their Peppermint Chip Milkshake.  In less than five minutes, we received our order.  

The Peppermint Chip Milkshake was a light pink color and it was topped with whipped cream and a cherry, creating a pleasing appearance.  The milkshake came in one size and, therefore, we received a generous amount.  The peppermint flavor was not overpowering, and the drink was not too sweet.  Additionally, crushed chocolate chips and candy canes filled the milkshake, adding a nice crunch to every sip.  The treat was also the perfect creamy consistency as it was not too thick and came through the straw quickly.  Finally, the drink was also not too cold or icy, which made it an enjoyable drink on a cool winter day.

Dairy Queen

Our next destination was Dairy Queen, located in Stamford, CT.  The shop was not busy when we arrived.  Its old-fashioned atmosphere was very appealing.  We viewed the wide variety of options on the menu and decided on the Oreo Hot Cocoa Blizzard Treat for $5.83.  The staff was friendly and prompt, but not very energetic.  Similar to Chick-fil-A, the wait at the window for our treat was under five minutes.

The Blizzard had a rather boring presentation as there was nothing on top of the ice cream.  It required a spoon to eat as it had a thick consistency.  We ordered the medium size, which had a lot of ice cream.  The treat had a mild, but rich chocolate flavor with Oreo cookie chunks and fudge mixed in at every bite.  However, as the Blizzard we ordered was hot chocolate flavored, we suggest that they add marshmallows and more complexity to the treat to ensure a balance between its description and taste.

Starbucks

Lastly, we made our way to Starbucks in Rye Brook, New York.  The location was crowded with people, however, we avoided waiting in line by placing a mobile order a few minutes before arriving.  We did not have much contact with the staff as we waited, enjoying the Christmas-themed decorations.  We ordered a tall-sized Toasted White Chocolate Crème Frappucino for $5.25.

On first impression, the drink was bland, although the it was topped with whipped creme and red sprinkles.  Additionally, the drink overflowed out of the cup and caused a mess.  The milkshake was very thin and watery and had an ordinary flavor.  We found this flavor to be deceiving, as it did not taste much like white chocolate but more like caramel.

Winner:

After tasting various holiday milkshakes, we concluded that the winner of this Christmas Guide to Greenwich was the  Peppermint Chip Milkshake from Chick-fil-A.  This treat had the most unique and delicious flavor in addition to the proper consistency and neat presentation.  Additionally, the atmosphere of the restaurant and the milkshake put us in the holiday spirit.

Featured Image by Lindsay Benza ’23