The East Village is a vibrant melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and its milkshake scene is no exception. From classic diner shakes to inventive artisanal creations, there's a creamy delight waiting for every palate. This guide dives deep into the top 16 milkshakes you absolutely must try in this iconic NYC neighborhood. Get ready for a sugary adventure!
Classic Diner Delights: The OG Milkshakes
These spots offer the quintessential milkshake experience – thick, creamy, and nostalgic.
1. Veselka: Ukrainian Comfort and Creamy Shakes
Veselka, a beloved East Village institution, serves up classic milkshakes alongside its famous pierogies. Their simple, yet perfectly executed shakes are the ideal accompaniment to a hearty Ukrainian meal. The chocolate is a must-try!
2. P.J. Clarke's: A New York City Legend
A true NYC landmark, P.J. Clarke's boasts a sophisticated milkshake experience. Expect premium ingredients and a refined atmosphere. Their vanilla bean milkshake is legendary.
3. Black Bear Diner: West Coast Charm in the East Village
Bringing a taste of the West Coast to the East Village, Black Bear Diner is known for its generous portions and delicious milkshakes. Their selection offers a range of flavors, including the ever-popular Oreo and strawberry.
Elevated Experiences: Artisanal Milkshakes
These spots take the milkshake to the next level with unique flavors, premium ingredients, and creative presentations.
4. Milk Bar: Cookie-Inspired Creaminess
Christina Tosi's Milk Bar is a dessert haven, and its milkshakes are no exception. Expect inventive combinations with their signature cookies and cake flavors. Their Cereal Milk milkshake is a cult favorite.
5. Morgenstern's Finest Ice Cream: Artisanal Excellence
Morgenstern's focuses on high-quality, artisanal ice cream, and their milkshakes reflect this commitment. Their rotating flavors and unique ingredient combinations are always worth exploring. Look for seasonal specialties!
6. Ample Hills Creamery: Creative Flavors and Thick Shakes
Ample Hills is known for its quirky and creative ice cream flavors, and this translates beautifully to their milkshakes. Prepare for unexpected but delicious combinations.
Unique & Themed Milkshakes: Beyond the Ordinary
These spots offer milkshake experiences that go beyond the traditional, often incorporating unique themes or ingredients.
7. Jack's Wife Freda: Mediterranean-Inspired Indulgence
Jack's Wife Freda’s menu blends Mediterranean flavors with classic American fare, and their milkshakes are no different. Expect unique twists on traditional flavors.
8. Abraço Espresso: A Coffee Shop Treat
Though primarily a coffee shop, Abraço Espresso offers a surprisingly delightful milkshake. This is the perfect treat if you need a caffeine and sugar boost.
9. Dimes: Healthy and Delicious
Dimes focuses on healthy and organic ingredients, and this approach extends to their milkshakes, offering a guilt-free indulgence. Expect fresh, natural flavors.
Hidden Gems: Undiscovered Milkshake Havens
These lesser-known spots offer exceptional milkshakes that often go unnoticed.
10. Momofuku Milk Bar (Different Location): A Second Chance for Cookie Bliss
While technically not in the East Village, this slightly further-afield location deserves mention for its similar delightful cookie-inspired milkshake options.
11. Sweet Moment: Local Favorite
Sweet Moment is a local favorite that consistently delivers delicious milkshakes at a great price. A true East Village hidden gem.
12. The Smith: Upscale Casual Milkshakes
The Smith offers an upscale casual dining experience, and their milkshakes are a perfect complement to their sophisticated menu.
International Flavors: A Global Milkshake Tour
These spots offer a unique spin on milkshakes with international flavors and ingredients.
13. Van Leeuwen Artisan Ice Cream: Globally-Inspired Shakes
Van Leeuwen offers a wide array of globally-inspired flavors in their ice cream, and those translate into adventurous milkshake choices.
14. La Parisienne: French Flair
This charming spot will transport you to Paris with their delectable milkshakes. Expect classic French flavors and a romantic atmosphere.
Beyond the Expected: Milkshakes with a Twist
These creative establishments don't just serve milkshakes; they create an experience.
15. Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer: Gourmet Burger and Milkshake Pairings
Black Tap is famous for its over-the-top gourmet burgers, and their milkshakes are equally impressive. Expect creative flavor combinations and decadent toppings.
16. The Crooked Knife: A Unique Cocktail and Dessert Experience
The Crooked Knife offers a unique mixology program and a creative dessert menu, including some very interesting milkshake options.
Conclusion: Your East Village Milkshake Adventure Awaits!
The East Village's milkshake scene is a diverse and delicious world waiting to be explored. Whether you're craving a classic diner shake or an inventive artisanal creation, this guide provides a starting point for your creamy adventure. So grab a straw, and get ready for the ultimate East Village milkshake experience! Remember to check individual restaurant websites for hours and availability.
