Meagen SetterRemember Lizzie McGuire’s iconic line, “This is what dreams are made of?” Well, when it comes to milkshakes, I say, “This is what sweet dreams are made of!”
In this guide, I’ll share my favorites and hidden gems, ensuring you find the perfect milkshake to satisfy your sweet tooth. Join me as I explore the ultimate guide to the best milkshakes in Vancouver.
From retro diners to trendy hotspots, let’s go on a delicious journey that will leave you dreaming of your next creamy treat—so grab your spoon and dive in!
1. Fable Diner
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Website: http://www.fablediner.com/
Address: 151 E Broadway, Vancouver, BC V5T 1W1
Contact details: +16045633463
Operating hours: 10 AM–10 PM
Pricing: $$
Fable Diner is a cozy and charming spot with a reputation for serving some of the city’s most creative and delicious milkshakes. The menu offers a variety of classic American comfort food, but the milkshakes steal the show.
From classic chocolate to more adventurous flavors like salted caramel and peanut butter, there’s something to satisfy every taste. I love their attention to detail in the milkshakes, as they add unique twists to traditional flavors.
Pro tip:
I highly recommend ordering a side of their crispy fries or a slice of their homemade pie to complement your milkshake. It’s the perfect way to round out your meal and indulge your sweet tooth.
2. Yum Sweet Shop
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Website: http://www.yumsweetshop.com/
Address: 4150 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5V 3P7
Contact details: +16046207701
Operating hours: 12–10 PM
Pricing: $
Yum Sweet Shop is a haven for dessert enthusiasts, offering various sweet treats. You should try their milkshakes, which range from classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like peanut butter and jelly or Oreo.
They constantly introduce new and exciting milkshake flavors, keeping things fresh and interesting. I’ve tried their “Maple Bacon” milkshake, which was surprisingly delicious. It combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the savory notes of bacon.
Pro tip:
Don’t be afraid to experiment with their unique flavor combinations. You might just discover your new favorite milkshake! Then, pair your milkshake with one of their delicious homemade cookies for the ultimate sweet treat.
3. Off the Grid Waffles
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Website: https://www.facebook.com/offthegridwaffles/
Address: 5943 Fraser St, Vancouver, BC V5W 2Z6
Contact details: +16043260708
Operating hours: 9:30 AM–7:30 PM
Pricing: $
Off the Grid Waffles is known for its fluffy, crispy waffles, but its milkshakes are also a must-try. Each milkshake is a masterpiece, from classic chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like peanut butter and jelly or Cookie Monster.
The milkshakes are thick but not too heavy, packed with delicious toppings and mix-ins. If you’re feeling adventurous, I highly recommend trying their seasonal flavors, which are always innovative and tasty.
Pro tip:
Be sure to order a waffle to complement your milkshake. And if you’re feeling indulgent, try their waffle milkshake, dipped in milkshake batter and deep-fried. It’s a decadent and delicious treat that you won’t soon forget.
4. Glenburn Soda Fountain & Confectionery
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Website: http://glenburnsoda.com/
Address: 4090 Hastings St, Burnaby, BC V5C 2H9
Contact details: +16045650155
Operating hours: 6–10 PM
Pricing: $$
Glenburn Soda Fountain & Confectionery is a charming old-fashioned soda fountain that has delighted locals and tourists for decades with its nostalgic atmosphere and mouthwatering treats.
The soda fountain’s vintage equipment and bartenders create milkshakes with a thick, frothy consistency and the perfect balance of sweetness and creaminess. It’s no wonder Glenburn has earned a reputation as one of the best milkshake spots in Vancouver.
Pro tip:
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the “Root Beer Float” – a classic combination of root beer and vanilla ice cream. I highly recommend ordering a slice of their homemade pie to complement your milkshake.
5. Lucy’s Eastside Diner
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Website: http://www.lucyseastsidediner.com/
Address: 2708 Main St, Vancouver, BC V5T 3C7
Contact details: +16045681550
Operating hours: 8 AM–1 AM
Pricing: $$
With its vintage-inspired decor and friendly atmosphere, Lucy’s Eastside Diner is a local favorite for its classic American comfort food. The menu is a delightful mix of familiar favorites with a nostalgic twist, including burgers, hot dogs, and fries.
But it’s the milkshake menu that truly steals the show. From classic flavors like chocolate and vanilla to more adventurous options like peanut butter and jelly and salted caramel, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth.
Pro tip:
If you’re feeling adventurous, try the “Oreo Overload” milkshake, a concoction of Oreo cookies, chocolate ice cream, and chocolate syrup. To complete your milkshake experience, pair it with a classic cheeseburger or a basket of crispy fries.
6. Wally’s Burger
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Website: http://www.wallysburgers.ca/
Address: 2661 E 49th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5S 1J9
Contact details: +16044342930
Operating hours: 12–7 PM
Pricing: $$
Wally’s Burger is an unassuming burger joint that has quickly gained a reputation for its incredibly delicious milkshakes. The menu at Wally’s is simple yet satisfying, featuring classic burgers, fries, and their famous milkshakes.
You can add a scoop of ice cream to your shake for a more decadent treat or try a milkshake flight to sample multiple flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try a boozy milkshake made with your choice of liquor.
Pro tip:
Try their fries, which are perfectly crispy and complement the milkshakes perfectly. For a must-order complement, I highly recommend adding a scoop of ice cream to your milkshake for an extra indulgent experience.
7. Rain or Shine Ice Cream
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Website: http://rainorshineicecream.com/
Address: 3382 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC V5Z 2W5
Contact details: +16048769986
Operating hours: 12–10 PM
Pricing: $
Rain or Shine Ice Cream is a cozy little ice cream shop renowned for its inventive flavors and commitment to using the freshest ingredients. Their menu is a milkshake lover’s dream, from classic favorites like chocolate and vanilla to lavender and Earl Grey.
One of my personal favorites is the salted caramel milkshake. The creamy vanilla base is complemented by a hint of saltiness, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile. The caramel swirls add a touch of sweetness and richness.
Pro tip:
Don’t be afraid to customize your milkshake. The friendly staff at Rain or Shine is always happy to accommodate special requests, so feel free to experiment with different flavors and toppings to create your perfect milkshake.
8. Japadog
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Website: http://www.japadog.com/
Address: 530 Robson St, Vancouver, BC V6B 2B7
Contact details: +16045691158
Operating hours: 10 AM–3 AM
Pricing: $$
Japadog is a hotdog joint that has quietly established itself as a local favorite for its unique and delicious milkshakes. Their flavors range from classic vanilla and chocolate to more adventurous options like matcha and taro.
I love that every flavor is expertly balanced and has a consistently smooth texture. The milkshakes are also generously topped with whipped cream and various toppings, adding a delightful touch of sweetness and texture.
Pro tip:
When visiting Japadog, don’t be afraid to experiment with their unique flavor combinations. To enhance your milkshake experience, I recommend pairing it with one of Japadog’s delicious hotdogs.
9. Soft Peaks
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Website: https://www.instagram.com/softpeaksicecream/
Address: 25 Alexander St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1B2
Contact details: +12362000981
Operating hours: 12–10 PM
Pricing: $
Soft Peaks is an iconic spot known for its thick, creamy milkshakes made with real ice cream and fresh ingredients. The menu boasts a variety of classic flavors, such as chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry, as well as seasonal offerings that change with the seasons.
I’m a big fan of their seasonal flavors, which often feature interesting and unexpected ingredients. One of my favorites is the “Salted Caramel Apple,” a decadent blend of caramel, apple, and a hint of simply irresistible salt.
Pro tip:
If you’re feeling adventurous, ask the staff about their secret menu items. You should also add a side of their famous fries. Crispy and salty, they’re the perfect complement to a creamy milkshake.
10. Avalon Dairy
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Website: http://www.avalondairy.com/
Address: 7985 N Fraser Way, Burnaby, BC V5J 0A4
Contact details: +16044560550
Operating hours: 8 AM–5:30 PM
Pricing: $
With its vintage-inspired interior and warm, inviting atmosphere, Avalon Dairy is a perfect spot to unwind and treat yourself to creamy milkshakes. Their menu features classic and unique milkshake flavors like peanut butter and jelly and salted caramel.
What makes Avalon Dairy’s milkshakes different is their exceptional quality and rich, creamy texture. They are blended to perfection, ensuring a smooth, velvety consistency that coats your mouth with deliciousness.
Pro tip:
Arrive early, as the place can get busy, especially during peak hours. To complement your milkshake, I highly recommend trying their homemade waffle fries, which are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
