Oberweis Dairy is an establishment that has allured me for quite some time. I pass its Lakeview location on my commute to work on the Brown Line—the big white and red lettering beckon me to hop off at Wellington to indulge before going to the office. The only things that stop me are:
1) The store’s hours. You’re telling me people don’t want to start the morning off with some rich dairy and chocolate? I’ve seen you people eat Cocoa Pebbles in the morning. Don’t lie.
2) Eating that much dairy in the morning would probably make the train ride to work much scarier as someone with a mildly lactose intolerant belly. It’s simply not worth the risk.
When I bring up Oberweis to people from Chicagoland, everyone has a story to share. “Oh yea, I much prefer that to Kilwins” (spoiler for next week’s review: I agree). “That was the go-to spot after football practice.” That type of stuff.
But no one brought up Oberweis unprompted. It wasn’t like, “Oh, you’re looking for ice cream in the city? You’ve gotta try Oberweis.” Which made me worry. If Oberweis was an afterthought, what does that say about its ice cream?
Skepticism grew, but I pushed on.
I kept the sundae simple. I know, just a few reviews ago I went on and on about how it was time for me to branch out and choose the more exciting sundae options. Perhaps my skepticism caused me to subconsciously sabotage Oberweis’ chances for greatness. But Oberweis got the best of me.
Quality of Fudge
A lot better than I anticipated. With Margie’s being the new bar, this only felt 2 or 3 notches below it. A thick consistency that stayed warm for at least the first ten or so minutes.
Quality of Toppings
Here’s where they could’ve tried a little harder. Just whipped cream and a cherry—no nuts! But it could’ve been worse. At first when they went to hand me the sundae, it was just ice cream and fudge. Me, being the non-confrontational person that I am, would’ve said nothing and then complained about it to you, the masses.
Fortunately no complaints are required. Before I could get my hands on that sundae, another worker looked at it and said, “No whipped cream or cherry?” The worker quickly retreated to correct their error. Sundae: Saved.
Level of Comfort Ordering the Hot Fudge Sundae
Oberweis does a lot right. For starters, they have a little ice water dispenser right by the pick-up counter. An essential item for all ice creameries, as science proves a cold glass of water is exactly what the body needs after ice cream.
They also have little chess boards on the table with complimentary chess pieces. In theory, this can help you pass the time while you eat your sweet treat. In reality, it made me realize how bad I am at chess. After accidentally making three illegal moves that put my king in check, I forfeited the game.
But there is one thing Oberweis could improve upon: Their menu’s angle. When you walk in, the menu is angled towards the left side of the room, prompting you to stand off the the left to get a proper read. Trouble is, the line is set up on the right side of the room. So while I was prepping to finalize my order, a line of like 4 people appeared out of nowhere and took our spots.
Granted, I probably would’ve let them pass me anyways since I wasn’t ready. But still! I’ll draw up some designs for them next time I go.
Would I Rather Get a McDonald’s Hot Fudge Sundae?
I do declare: No. The fudge and experience was just enough to teeter this over the edge. Plus, they’ve got more to try! Why would I rob myself (and more specifically, my tastebuds) of that indulgence? See you next time, Oberweis.
Final Score: 7.7/10
Hot for Fudge 