The week I moved to Chicago, I made a very concerning discovery: Margie’s, a renowned ice cream parlor, sat less than a ten-minute walk from my house. At that point in my life, I still wasn’t sure if I wanted to blow the dust off this blog, so I held off from ever checking Margie’s out. Perhaps I worried patronizing the parlor would plunge me down the fudge-filled rabbit hole once again.
I now see Margie’s for what it truly is: a beacon of hope (and ice cream).
Months after moving to the Windy City, it was finally time to give in to temptation for the sake of convenience. After binging some Better Call Saul, I put on my coat and took a stroll down Montrose Ave to find the facade that beckons me every time I take the Brown Line.
And how glorious it was.
Today’s treat is a Turtle Sundae. As we’ve already discussed on this blog, the term “Turtle” confuses me greatly. Maybe someday I’ll educate myself on the origins of this usage in the context of desserts. Actually, who am I kidding? I can’t be bothered to do that. And if you try to explain it to me, I won’t listen.
Needless to say, I do know Turtle desserts generally contain two things: Caramel and pecans. This sundae only had caramel, so could it really be called a Turtle Sundae? Yes, because, again, “turtle” is a nonsensical adjective for desserts.
I will die on this hill.
Quality of Fudge
I was initially motivated to finally try Margie’s because of what my friend told me: “It’s the best fudge I’ve ever had.” To me, it sounded like hyperbole.
I digitally stand before you today to declare that yes, this fudge rips.
Rich, thick, and perfectly textured, I had no idea fudge could be this good. It reminded me of why I set out on this journey in the first place: To find the best of the best.
When you look at the photo above, you may be discouraged by the lack of visible fudge. I certainly was when I opened it to take a picture. But there was a plethora of chocolatey goodness, forming a viscous moat betwixt the styrofoam clamshell and the scoops of vanilla.
Quality of Toppings
The cherry and whipped cream were pretty run-of-the-mill. If anything there might’ve been too much whipped cream. The peanuts, however, were ever so slightly improved upon with a light toasting. This subtle change completely elevated the flavor profile, bringing a depth raw peanuts could never dream of.
Plus, they nestled two wafer cookies with my napkin and spoon. A delightful surprise!
Level of Comfort Ordering a Hot Fudge Sundae
Exceptionally comfortable. It’s an ice cream parlor, after all! My only complaint is that their To-Go window was closed. But my sundae was ready, literally, within 60 seconds of ordering, so my takeout experience was not hampered by any delay.
Would I Rather Get a McDonald’s Hot Fudge Sundae?
This is, perhaps, the greatest sundae one could ask for. Cheap, huge quantity, and absolutely delicious. So no, Margie’s takes the W.
The simultaneously best and worst news about this adventure is that Margie’s carries several sundae options. I will most certainly be going back to the well to try these varietals (and will alert you, the masses, to my findings).
Final Score: 10/10
Hot for Fudge 