National Donut Day, National Peanut Butter Day, National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day? I’ll admit, it’s only until recently that I realized there was a day to celebrate nearly everything, including your favorite junk food treats. While some of them can seem quite silly, if I have an excuse to grab a delicious sweet treat, it’s OK in my book. While you can grab delicious shakes at well-known chains like Steak and Shake, Cookout, and Freddy’s Steakburgers, here I’ve rounded up my favorite places in the Midlands to beat the heat for National Chocolate Milkshake Day on Sept. 12.
Rush’s
Multiple Locations
Even though there are 10 Rush’s locations in the Midlands, it’s still a local place in my heart, because it was born here in Columbia. Since the 60s, Rush’s has served up fresh made fries, burgers, barbecue sandwiches, and my favorite, the chili dog. But let’s not forget their sweet creamy treats. Their milkshakes are thick and creamy and perfect for dipping those hot, salty fries in, if you’re into that kind of thing (like me).
Kaminsky’s
Columbia- The Vista
I know I did a “hallelujah” when my favorite Charleston sweet spot opened it’s doors in Columbia a few years ago. This place is unique from the rest of the list because it’s not a burger joint, but a dessert café. Nestled in the heart of the Vista, Kaminsky’s cozy seating and ambiance is the perfect ending to a night on the town, whether it’s date night or girls night. In addition to fresh baked cake slices the size of your head and dessert martinis, they also have a list of creamy dreamy signature and “adult” milkshakes. Grab an Elvis shake for me when you go.
Zesto
West Columbia, Forest Acres, Chapin
Would any local food guide be complete without Zesto? With three locations in the Columbia area, anyone can grab a Zesto burger, fries and a shake for a decent price. Also don’t forget about the best fried chicken in the south! Since 1949 Zesto has been making a name for itself as one of the best locally owned and operated fast food joints in the south. Part nostalgia, part delicious food, no trip through Columbia is complete without a pit stop at Zesto.
Grill Marks
Columbia- The Vista
Born in Greenville from the folks that bring you Larkin’s on the Lake and Larkin’s on the River, Grill Marks has blessed the Vista with amazing burgers to suit every taste and delicious shakes to suit every mood. Need a little pick me up after work? Try a signature shake. Need something to take the edge off? Grab a spiked “Shake Tail.” Feeling over the top? Order one of their Freakshakes, if you dare. Whatever your poison, Grill Marks is sure to satisfy anyone’s shake craving.
Rosewood Dairy Bar
Columbia- Rosewood
Spending most of my childhood living in southeast Columbia, heading to Rosewood Dairy Bar takes me back to a simpler time of life. Ordering at the walk up window and enjoying an ice cream treat on a hot summer day is nothing short of sweet nostalgia for this Columbia girl. I promise its worth fighting for parking for these milkshakes and cheeseburgers.
