Who doesn’t love creamy hand-spun milkshakes and luscious gourmet chocolates? Even better when you can enjoy a sweet treat in the company of family and friends in a welcoming space inspired by a classic soda fountain.
At Milkshake Factory Mason, there’s something for everyone–a full chocolate bar, milkshakes, non-dairy shakes, sundaes, molten fruit cups and root beer floats. These delights have a long history, as Milkshake Factory is a fourth-generation business that began in 1914 as a small chocolatier and soda fountain helmed by the Edwards family in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
That family legacy of handmade chocolate and top-tier ingredients is the centerpiece of Milkshake Factory and what truly sets them apart. It’s also what stood out to local franchise owners, Tracy and Joe Carter.
“Their milkshakes, non-dairy shakes, desserts and chocolate were better than anything I had tasted in our region, and Mason was primed for a new dessert shop that focused on premium ingredients and elevated hospitality,” Tracy tells us.
The Carters were inspired to bring Milkshake Factory to Mason after experiencing a personal turning point following the passing of Tracy’s brother due to cancer at age 50.
“I was blessed to have many great conversations with him during his last year here and his encouragement was the fire I needed to go after my dream of becoming a business owner,” shares Tracy.
The mission of Milkshake Factory to help people celebrate the simple joys of life really resonated with Tracy.
“One of my favorite memories growing up was going out for ice cream with my family and I want to share that joy with our guests,” she says. “We want to help people slow down, enjoy a treat and savor the day.”
When entering Milkshake Factory, it’s hard not to be drawn in by the tempered chocolate fountain that flows all day alongside the expansive chocolate bar featuring sustainably sourced cocoa and confections ranging from cake pops, chocolate-covered strawberries, chocolate barks and more–all made fresh in house. Current CEO, Dana Edwards, grew up in the chocolate factory her parents opened, watching them make handcrafted chocolate with recipes handed down through generations.
Those same Edward’s family recipes are used today for all of their chocolates and the vanilla and chocolate ice creams that make up the base of all of their milkshakes. Pair that with housemade whipped cream and gourmet syrups and inclusions, and you have an indulgent experience that truly wows.
Those who need to skip dairy aren’t left out at Milkshake Factory either, with their non-dairy shakes and molten fruit cups. All milkshakes can be made with non-dairy ice cream and milk.
“I’ve had many people tell me that they haven’t been able to enjoy a milkshake out with their family in years because of the lack of non-dairy options. When I tasted our non-dairy ice cream for the first time, I had no idea I was eating something without dairy,” explains Tracy.
As we head into fall and winter, Milkshake Factory has you covered with seasonal treats, including the Pumpkin Pie milkshake, available now, and the Peppermint Brownie Fudge milkshake for the holidays. Plus, get ready for all your holiday parties and personal or corporate gift giving with customizable catering and mix-and-match chocolate bark boxes. MilkShakeFactory.com