As much as I love independently owned places - Bobtail and Black Dog Gelato come to mind - there is something nostalgic for me about Dairy Queen that keeps me coming back.
A Butterscotch Dilly Bar, Pineapple Shake, or an Oreo Blizzard never fails to put a smile on my face. I've never visited for an actual meal, always for a treat. Sometimes I've stopped by after a run and they are so nice to immediately offer me water, without me even having to ask!
My family used to come here all the time when I was little, so stopping at Dairy Queen is like a peek back into my childhood. Sure, I'll check out Paciugo and Black Dog Gelato when they open this summer, and I definitely love more exotic flavors. But when I'm craving something rich and sweet that has more calories than a meal should, I know Dairy Queen is there for me.
Pros: Dilly Bars, Blizzards, Nice employees
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