Today is National Chocolate Milkshake Day. Although, if you’re like me, that’s pretty much everyday. Because…chocolate. Some people might have a few places to celebrate today. McDonald’s and other fast food places always have those shakes on demand. And even the local dine-in places are an option, if you’re feeling fancy like Applebee’s. But this is Vegas, baby, so we have options when it comes to our dining selections. But first, let’s get some info on the history of this sacred day.
According to nationaldaycalendar.com, “the term milkshake first appeared in print in 1885. During this period, a milkshake is referred to an alcoholic beverage described as a ‘sturdy, healthful eggnog type of drink’ blended with eggs, whiskey, and other ingredients. Pharmacies served the drink as a tonic and a treat to customers. By 1900, pharmacies offered this ‘wholesome drink’ with either chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla syrup.” In the early 1900s, people began asking for the new treat with a scoop of ice cream. Isn’t that just like us? Wanting to turn something wholesome into something bad and tasty. But I digress….In 1911, Hamilton Beach’s drink mixers began to be used at soda fountains. In 1922, Steven Poplawski invented the electric blender or drink mixer, which lead to the frothy milkshake consistency we know today. And by the 1920s & 1930s, milkshakes became a popular drink at malt shops everywhere. Along with milkshakes, malted milk milkshakes became popular drinks at soda fountains around the 1920s.
While we don’t have too many malt shops left like we had a century ago (although you can still find a few), we have plenty of places in Las Vegas that can serve up a tasty shake for National Chocolate Milkshake Day. Here are a few of our favorites.
–Wendy Rush, 96.3KKLZ Las Vegas
