Indulging in a classic root beer float has never been sweeter or more competitive among restaurants. Discover which chain serves the ultimate treat!
Root beer floats are the epitome of nostalgic indulgence. From the signature fizzy sweetness of root beer to the creamy texture of ice cream, it’s an unbeatable combination. We ventured out to six renowned chain restaurants to evaluate their versions of this beloved classic, finding touches of creativity and crunch across the board. However, not all floats are created equal. Here’s how they stacked up—from the least impressive to the absolute best.
6. Red Robin
Known for its burgers and whimsical dining experience, Red Robin offers a root beer float that is unfortunately underwhelming. Served in a to-go cup, my float lacked the frosted mug experience that could elevate its flavors. The mixture tasted more like a sugary slurry rather than the robust flavor profile typical of a root beer float. It was more of a disappointment than a delight, earning this float the bottom spot on our list. This iconic dining chain does not fulfill the expectation set by its pub fare reputation, thus leading to a lack of excitement with every sip.
5. Dairy Queen
Famed for its soft serve, Dairy Queen would seem like a natural contender in the world of root beer floats. While the ingredients are readily available, the execution left much to be desired. Using Barq's root beer, the float lacked the balance of flavors, with the soft serve overshadowing the root beer's distinct taste. At over $6 for a medium size, it felt like paying too much for a simple combination that didn't do much to embrace the original spirit of the float. A missed opportunity, considering their avowed expertise in sweet treats.
4. Sonic
Sonic Drive-In is a staple of the fast-food scene known for its car-hop service and assorted drinks. Here, the root beer float featured Barq’s and a generous scoop of soft serve that almost created a floating ice cream mountain. The visual appeal was undeniable, but the flavor overpowered the root beer, making it taste too creamy. This float provided a fun experience but didn’t quite land the classic root beer float flavor balance we were seeking at a price point around $5.
3. BJ's Brewhouse
In a different league is BJ's Brewhouse, which offers a specially crafted root beer that allows for an exceptional float experience. This unique root beer was paired with creamy vanilla bean ice cream, showcasing the artistry that goes into this beloved beverage. The careful balance shimmered through every sip, although at a near $6 price tag, it justified its premium billing with rich flavors. Customization options meant you could craft your float exactly as you like.
2. Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers
Stepping into Freddy's immediately feels like the 1950s. This restaurant’s atmosphere complements its impressive root beer float, which combines Mug root beer with their super creamy custard. This float captured the true essence of nostalgia with a flavorful experience that was balanced and delightful. Priced at $6.29, it provided an indulgent treat that felt truly worth it. The airy texture of the foam combined gently with the sweet root beer, creating a drink that could revive any nostalgic mood.
1. Culver's
Topping our list, Culver's delivers the perfect root beer float, boasting a smoothly balanced blend of their signature root beer and rich custard. The thoughtfully crafted recipe brought a twangy flavor that complemented the creaminess with a delightful sizzle. Remarkably, this float is one of the more affordable options on our list. It's no wonder this chain's root beer float captivates your palate and transports you back to the good old days, making it the go-to choice for root beer float fans. It has secured its position as my must-visit spot for all future float runs.
With so many establishments trying their hand at this classic beverage, the competition is fierce. Luckily, there are delicious options out there to satisfy any cravings for a root beer float that harks back to the roots of this timeless treat. As we’ve seen, some places are legends, while others miss the mark entirely. Whether you opt for the handcrafted ice cream experience at BJ's Brewhouse or the classic nostalgia at Freddy's, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don't settle for anything less than the best when it comes to these charming indulgences.