Dairy Star Ice Cream of Lincolnwood

Local go-to ice cream joint on Devon Avenue for decades. A great old fashioned hangout for children. Soft serve ice cream can be had with variety dipping options. Also have wide array of sundaes. They finally began accepting credit cards but costs more than using cash. This place is not cheap but I’d like to think that what you pay for is more than just ice cream but also old-time atmosphere. It is a perfect place to visit on a hot summer night.

Ice cream cones, boats, shakes and malts. Fairly traditional fare, tasty that can be enjoyed outside as there are tables and chairs or as take-aways. Parking was a challenge - then again going on a hot summers day meant more people wanting to enjoy a cold treat. The building itself resembles a (dated) 'hole in the wall' but it does have charm.

Their vegan ice cream so good and worth it for the price. They have vanilla, chocolate, and twist. Just for a regular cone, they filled it up high! The service was super fast, and even if there's a line, you will not wait too long. Perfect for a sunny day! They have available outdoor tables.

The childhood memories + amazing ice cream Love love love dairy star in the summer. I grew up going here and now take my own children. The root beer float is my fave!

The wait is crazy but the ice cream is good and staff were nice. I do wish they had options for smaller cone sizes

Dairy Star is a Unique Experience!!! the cool things you can order here that you can't get at just a regular ice cream shop or grocery store. So Yummy and customizable, you can never get bored of their options. Highly recommend their Vanilla Frozen yogurt dipped in Chocolate--- its so cool seeing them dip it in the melted chocolate on the spot as it solidifies; the Snow Blitz is also great, and also really liked the Chocolate & Vanilla frozen yogurt swirl. I genuinely think Their ice cream tastes better than any other place I've so far tried. As a kid I really looked forward to dairystar opening in the spring. if you are in mood of a sweet treat this definitely is the place

The Go Nuts Parfait was heavenly! Always a super fun atmosphere. Nothing fancy. Just everyone having a good time and enjoying the ice cream

Driven past this Lincolnwood spot for ages but finally made it and it certainly did not disappoint! Grabbed a “Fundae” which is their Funnel Cake Sundae, topped with a Cherry, Peanuts, Whipped Cream, Chocolate sauce and Strawberries! It tasted fantastic and while there was a bit of a wait, the ice cream was very much worthwhile! They also write clever things on their sign! Will definitely be going back very soon! 🍦

First time my friend took me there it was almost 10 at night and the place was packed. Lineup was about 20 minutes but everybody was in such a good mood because... You're waiting for ice cream. It had been a super hot week. They have two windows open and service happens really fast because there's a very quick moving staff behind the one who takes the order. The soft service delicious. Not too sweet. And whatever it's made of the real stuff because it starts melting right away... That's how you know it's not chock full of preservatives and who doesn't love that? I had the birthday cake dip because I love all things birthday cake when it comes to ice cream. It did not disappoint. But honestly the ice cream underneath the vanilla chocolate swirl was so good it really didn't need a dip. Also picked up a chocolate dipped frozen banana for my dad. If you have to go with a healthier option -- that's a good one That was pretty popular and disappeared quickly. Bite for bite I think I might've liked that better than even the ice cream. My friend got a blitz. It involves some kind of chocolate bar. It was about $20 for three things. I hope you get to try it -- and if you're there it's the sign that's bright, the line that's long, and where the péople are happy.

This is the perfect local spot to grab soft serve ice cream. They have so many dips and topping to choose from. You can easily fulfill your sweet cravings here. The workers were friendly and it's overall a great spot for summer. They have outdoor seating and it gets packed but the line moves quick. I will definitely be back again! The portions are generous so be prepared to eat quick. I got a regular chocolate dipped cone and I was fighting for my life to eat it before it melted.

Every time I go there I'm never disappointed! This has quickly become my #1 Summer bucket list choice. I usually get the original parfait but I've had a sundae as well. It's humongous! So bring an appetite or someone to share it with.

Unfortunately overhyped by tiktok and other social media. We were very excited to visit, especially because we just moved in to the neighborhood. We ordered a regular of rocky road and it didn't feel worth it for the $10 of ice cream. Although I commend the old fashion style of rocky road (mix ins instead of a blended ready rocky road), it was more so the taste that took away from it. And my fiancé loves desserts, so the fact that we both felt underwhelmed was unfortunate. The chocolate ice cream wasn't a special taste for a place listed as, "the best ice cream" on social media reviews. The marshmallow sauce according to the sign tasted like under mixed whipped cream and it even looked like it. The hot fudge was only in the corners of the bowl so I didn't mix with the taste. Old fashioned or not it just didn't taste like a good mix of ingredients, just a hodge podge of items in a bowl. But, at least people seem to like it. There is always a huge line, especially on weekends, and the signage gives homey vibes so that's nice. I hope the place is great for others and maybe it's just not for me. Wish y'all well though!

Best icecream in town. Quick service. Cash or credit. Outdoor seating with umbrella tables, or benches.

Nothing screams summertime Chicago like enjoying Dairy Star. Much like The Freeze, Dairy Star is a classic for ice cream in the north side of Chicago. Be prepared for some long lines in the summer, but thankfully things move quick. Must be all the high school/college kid energy working a summer job. I think most people go for the dipped cone, but in my opinion it just melts way too fast and leaves quite the mess on you, your hands, or the ground. Despite it being a bit more expensive, I usually opt for the snow blitz which is basically a blizzard from Dairy Queen or a McFlurry from McDonald's. I opted for the Oreo snow blitz recently and thought it was a great treat. My friend opted for the Kit Kat snow blitz and I felt like they were a bit stale. There's a good bit of seating in front and on the sides of the the building. If you're not in a rush and the weather is nice, definitely recommend just hanging around and enjoying a nice summertime Chicago vibe. Especially in the evening! Also parking lot can get full quickly, but usually you can find parking in the neighborhood and walk over.

This place does some things very well and some not so well. Sundaes, soft serve ice cream and floats are great, but their milk shakes are horrible! I asked for a chocolate malt and what I got was basically a large chocolate milk. It was thin and I could not taste any malt at all. For that reason alone, I would say this place is way over hyped. At least the service is good, in spite of the usual long line to wait in. For a great chocolate malt, I'll go to Steak and Shake or Homers, not here

I love dairy star. I wish people gatekept it. The opps are ruining the spot. I also wish they had a tip jar.

Yummy yummy giant dipped cone in a thin layer of chocolate. There was a long line but they went thru quickly. Everyone had something delicious. Along with other dipped cones one person had a fresh banana shake. It was delicious too! We ate outside because it was still nice out. Unfortunately the weather is coming to an end but the cones were terrific

Great place to grab a classic summer treat. They're known for their dipped cones which is what I usually get. Their ice cream is smooth, creamy, and the perfect texture, not too sweet so the toppings/dip really helps. The ice cream melts and can get messy very quickly. On a busy day the seated area was pretty full of drops of ice cream but still sittable. Props to the person who recommended requesting a cup especially if you're taking it to go! There's a small parking lot and some side street parking. There's usually a line in the summer but it moves pretty quickly.

A neighborhood staple. This place ALWAYS has a line but don't let that turn you away from this gem!! The teens working there are FAST and efficient! Seating is open, people often share tables which is a very sweet midwest thing. They have cones, shakes, sundaes, etc. Everyone in the family will be able to find a dessert they love!! Pro tip: Read the toppings carefully, I dont like nuts and the topping I picked was basically all nuts... haha. Thankfully my partner ate them all! Fail on my part

Worth the hype! This place has so many cool dipped flavors and a unique strawberry twist. Their malts, sundaes, and shakes looked good too. Parking can be a little hard; street parking for overflow. Cash and credit is accepted. Strawberry seems to be the crowd pleaser. They have vegan options which is always unique.

We love the soft serve and the sundaes. Even the small size is plenty. The kids working there are kind and efficient.

Esther Povitsky put it in her special, so 5 stars. Plus I like the name. So All American. I've never been to Illinois.

I discovered this place late in the summer and quickly became addicted. The line can be long at times, but luckily it moves fast. They have more soft serve ice cream flavors and toppings than any other place around. My favorite thing to get though was the peanut butter shake. Sadly they close down in the winter and reopen in the spring. I can't wait until they reopen next spring!!

Came here on a hot Saturday afternoon for some ice cream. We didn't have to wait long at all, so that was nice. I ordered a root beer and my wife ordered swirl cone with crunch dip. Overall, a good ice cream for a very hot day. After we finished our ice cream, there ended up being a line of over 12 people. We were very happy we didn't have to wait.

This ice cream was fantastic! This place looks like a local favorite and has amazing vibes. If you're looking for true Chicago ice cream, start here!

Dairy star must be a popular place because the line was wrapped around the place on a Thursday night!! Plenty of seating outside, but filled with patrons. Be prepared to wait for a table or split one with strangers if you/the other party are comfortable. The root beer float I had was pretty good, but pricey! Inflation is hitting everyone! Parking lot available in the back, but might not have spots available. Free parking is available on the side streets.

I heaven try Dairy Star ice cream - it's Ben a long time wish they have gluten, free, ice cream

Dairy Star was a must visit when I was back in Chicago. Trip to Chicago? In the summer? It was basically all but certain. COVID hasn't changed it much, I don't think they've had to reduce the number of tables and chairs and aside from having a set order and pick up line and a table to ensure proper distancing. What hasn't changed is that their ice cream is still top notch and the strawberry shortcake sundae is still too much of a draw to get a parfait.

We moved in the area bout 30 yrs ago & have been coming to eat ice cream here every since . The only thing we don't like is that there closed in the winter there only open in the summertime but well worth it portions are always the same everything tastes great service is always fast & correct & friendly.

Dairy star is a must stop! Definitely a hidden gem. They have amazing soft serve. Both dairy and non-dairy options. I've tried their vegan vanilla, chocolate and swirl soft serve. Every time I go I get the same toppings because they are my faves. I either get Oreo or peanuts. But, they have several options from cups, cones, shakes, etc. If you haven't been to Dairy Star in a while they have made changes as they now accept credit/debit. They use to be cash only. This was a great change because I usually do not carry cash. It's convenient that they now accept cards. Food Instagram: @vegangirl_chicago

The absolute best out there pure strawberry flavor ( my favorite). Dont let the huge lines scare you they are a well Oiled machine and get you thru quickly

Really good. So many different options. I got a strawberry and vanilla twist, dipped in cake batter shell.

Who wants ice cream? I do! On a hot Chicago evening, the line was about eight people long when we got there. The star of this place looked like the dipped cones, as the people I saw were ordering them left and right. Dairy Star Ice Cream operates out of a small stand, with two walk-up windows and several tables and seats for outdoor seating. The back of the building are parking spots, and you can also part on the residential side street. I ordered the cherry dipped cone, with vanilla. Man, it was good! Unsurprisingly, it was super messy, and the hot and humid air, made my treat a big sticky mess. I got brain freeze from trying to eat the delectable delight as fast as I could. Pro-tip is to ask for a bowl with your cone, so the melted icecream goes into your bowl, and not on your hands. The employees there were nice and friendly, and the ice cream came out pretty fast. I can see why so many people like it here.

Yummy soft serve ice cream, right in Devon in Lincolnwood. They have a socially distant line due to the pandemic and when the weather is nice it can be long, but it moves. You walk up and place your order at one of two windows. The staff are all really nice and they're fast, too. They have several tables in front if you want to stay and eat your treat. Dedicated one star only because they only have one size for their specialty sundaes and they're a bit pricey at almost $8. But I love their cones and they make great shakes. We are fans!

This is a throw back to the 50's barebones little walk up window. Delicious ice cream treats. Enormous portions. My " regular" cone was insanely big. Perfect stop for a cool treat. Similar to Dairy Queen without the chain restaurant feel. Benches outside. Perfect for a summer or early fall day. Highly recommend!

This place is great. It doesn't look like much, but they have great ice cream. I had vanilla soft serve with USA sprinkles (they didn't have rainbow : ( ) and very much enjoyed it! Handful of tables, and they keep you moving in line. Strong recommend! (from @tastessky on Instagram)

The Dairy Star offers an excellent variety of sweet treats. I was particularly interested in a dip cone. Preferably, chocolate soft serve with a sweet cherry dip hard shell coating. DSIC came through in a significant way! The service was prompt and friendly, and accurate. There were no long lines, no hastily made treats, and the result was an ice cream lover's dream. I was pleasantly surprised and satisfied. The space has a small outdoor seating area with limited parking, Overall, a great summer go-to spot to quell the heat and satisfy your sugar craving.

Our usual is a twist cone with Oreo but today I wanted to return to exploring their slushies after not being so impressed years ago. My daughter chose a strawberry slushie and it is made with some real strawberry sundae topping which makes it that much nicer than just syrup. Will make an effort to ask what other slushies are made with fruit next time. Pineapple and cherry are possible other candidates.

get the chocolate ice cream dipped cone with oreos its the best combination ever 10/10 must recommend

Long lines but worth it. Fun family spot, interesting flavors, no complaints. Get discount for paying cash

It's a better version of Diary Queen! Everything I've order here is amazing. Warning that the portions are pretty huge.

This is my second time coming here! The service is awesome and so is their ice cream and funnel cake!!!

Simply the best. There isn't another place in this whole town that has ice cream that is as rich and creamy as Dairy Star. My go to is their Chocolate Fudge Sunday, and their portions are huge! It is family & kid friendly and you can also bring your TRAINED, WELL BEHAVED dog. Long lines that move very fast and a friendly neighborhood offers you the opportunity to have a nice, brisk walk around the neighborhood after finishing your ice cream. This little gem has a little bit of a retro vibe that is fun to experience. Free parking on the side streets, since their parking lot has just a few parking spaces available.

**MUST GET** Small ice cream shop only open in the summer. Cool flavors of dipped ice cream (blue raspberry, cotton candy, chocolate, oreo). Classic soft served ice cream that is perfect for an ending to your night. I got the banana split and it was my favorite item on the menu. Has everything you want (minus the strawberries ice cream) and I would recommend adding more strawberry drizzle . IT WAS SOOO GOOD.

The vanilla - strawberry swirl with fruity pebbles omg this was heaven! Bf got a malt, prefer milkshake.

Had a hankering for some ice cream but didn't realize it was already almost 10:15pm. Did a quick search and found this place that was just a 15 min drive up 90/94. Soft serve vanilla cone dipped in butterscotch with a nice size cup of crunch on the side was [insert emoji kissing fingers here]. The blue raspberry slush not so much though. Was a little watery and not tangy enough. Had to put some lime in it when we got home to get the flavor we were looking for. Will probably go again if I'm in the area or find myself wanting a sundae or a cone after 10pm

Although this is a staple of Lincolnwood ice cream shops, their pricing is way high for what you receive. From charging super high pricing for vegan options to a 4 or 5% up charge for using a charge/debit card is robbery. Owners: Get back to the basics. I've been a customer for decades, and your soft serve is good, but not worth what you charge. And if you charge 4% for using credit, be sure you have a clear signage (not tucked away somewhere) stating that's the case. And your employees should ask that at the beginning of the order and not after order has been placed. Poor form.

I have been living in the area for years, and this is the first time I have been to this place. Boy, have I been missing out!! Not only are the people working here friendly and nice, they have excellent desserts! In front and the sides of the building, they have places to sit and enjoy these tasty treats. They seem to specialize in dipped cones, and offer several flavors. I ordered the snow blitz, which had a lot more cookies/Oreos Twix and snickers than what is provided by DQ. Everything was delicious! I will be back...

Want some inexpensive, quick grab of ice cream? Head over to Dairy Star! And if you're not feeling ice cream quite right now, drive past to read their signs. They have funny, clever quotes on their marquee. Open for only half of the year, this place is always packed! If it's 65 degrees and over, expect a line, especially after dinner hours. The lines move fast and it's a quick turnaround between ordering & getting your ice cream. They have a variety menu so if you're indecisive, go with a small cone swirl, and you're covered! And don't underestimate my order of "small" because it's not small at all! There's a small parking lot but there's also plenty of parking around. Each person is about $4 an order and people generally stay about 20 min to eat their ice cream and head out. It's cash only so you better have your mula with you!

If this place stayed open all year round I swear I'd go even in freezing cold weather. There are SO many options to choose from so in my opinion it's important to visit several times in order to try as many things as you can!!! The dipped cones are always a classic, and the crunch topping is always a great choice. The shakes are great as well- my go to is always strawberry or cherry but they also have really interesting flavors like orange and Coca-cola. I think my favorite is the Snow Blitz, though. It's just so fun. I usually get strawberry ice cream with hot fudge (maybe even EXTRA hot fudge) and Oreo.

Heard about this place from a friend and I was in the area. There were a good amount of people in like and sitting around enjoying their ice cream. I had plain vanilla soft serve dipped in chocolate. I thought the soft serve was good, light and airy. The chocolate shell surprisingly didn't have a strong taste of chocolate and had a waxy texture when I was chewing it. Overall, I thought it was just okay.

Dairy Star is a neighborhood classic. If you live in the area you already know. If your new to the area or passing by stop in and you won't be disappointed. They have amazing flavors and dips for cones as well as tons of options for snow blitz (like a McFlurry but better). My friends and I love to bike here on a hot day and reward ourselves with an ice cold tasty treat. This is hands down my favorite ice cream spot in the area.

ok highkey confused at the hype,,,, got a vegan swirl regular sized cone with chocolate peanut butter dip and lowkey was flavorless?? like will give that the texture was creamy, but just tasted kinda neutral.... and couldn't really tell what was chocolate and what was vanilla! also melted so so fast even tho wasn't that hot out and was kinda messy.... the coating was alright, but i think the reason i'm like !??! whats going on is that the vegan prices aren't listed on the board so assumed it'd be like a dollar more than dairy prices, but it was 3 DOLLARS MORE??? for smth that is 5 dollars with regular ice cream?? nearly 9 dollars with card for an unremarkable ice cream cone just blows my mind lol,,,,, like burger king ice cream goes so much harder and is like 2 bucks and the same size or like even jenis is like 6 bucks for ice cream that is obvs higher quality ingredients, alas lesson learned it's really my b cause could've changed to dairy ice cream when they told me the price, but wowza im so confused lol.

Love the ice cream. There's always a long line every time we pass by the place but they provide fast service so do not be discouraged. Plans to go back here go try their other selections

Amazing neighborhood place. Huge portions. Delicious choices make it impossible to go wrong. Parking everywhere. Fast service. Find an excuse to go now because only open in summer.

We went on a cold April day, so there were not many people around. I'm sure it gets crowded during hotter weather. It is a walk-up window to order- Great service and inexpensive

Heard about this place on Chicago's Best and have always wanted to check it out. I finally got a chance tonight and I must say the ice cream is tasty. They have tons of malts and ice cream cone dips. The dips are what they are known for. The line here is always long and people keep coming in droves one after another. There is only a very small parking lot behind the shop. This is a walk up establishment where you walk up to a window and order your ice cream. The service is fast though and that is a good thing. One negative with these super popular places is most only accept cash and there is no ATM on site. I think in todays day and age that is super unacceptable! Also, it would be nice if their website had a detailed menu on their diffrent dip flavors and ice cream flavors. They have a kind of hap hazard menu on the front of the shop that is hard to read. You feel funny taking time to try and decipher it while there are 20 people behind you waiting to get ice cream. But definitely check this place out for yourself - they do serve a good product and it's definitely worth a try. Update - This place is just not that great. I have now tried it multiple times. Dare I say the Mcdonalds dipped cone is actually better then their dips. And cheaper. I can't really recommend this place anymore.

We had another great day here! We stopped with our pup and got him a tiny vanilla ice cream and I got a delish butterscotch sundae! This is such an old school fun spot with awesome ice cream. It is pup approved!