Kawartha Dairy Toronto
Kawartha Dairy, the beloved family-owned dairy brand that began in Bobcaygeon, has officially opened its first Toronto location.
Renowned for its creamy, hand-scooped ice cream and nostalgic old-fashioned milkshakes, the location near Danforth and Donlands marks Kawartha Dairy's 13th retail store.
"We wanted to bring a taste of cottage country to the city," shared Mike Crowe, 3rd generation Owner and Director of Product Development.
There are currently 46 flavours featured in-store, including favourites such as Muskoka Mocha, Moose Tracks, and Campfire S'mores, as well as exciting new varieties like Dockside Cappuccino.
The ice cream is crafted with fresh milk and cream from local farms, a tradition that dates back to the early 1960s when founders Jack and Ila Crowe first began producing the cold treat.
The store also carries lactose-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and reduced-sugar options.
The first flavour I tried was the coveted and highly popular Moose Tracks. Made with vanilla ice cream, fudge, and chocolate peanut butter cups, it's the perfect combination for anyone with a sweet tooth.
The Baby size ($5.29) offers a single scoop far from your average kiddie cone.
Moving on to the Small ($6.29), you get your choice of two flavours. Tiger Tail offers the sweet and slightly bitter taste of orange and black licorice.
Moon Mist is an East Coast favourite featuring banana, grape, and bubblegum.
The largest size available is the Huge ($7.29), and it absolutely lives up to its name. Towering high, I'd recommend getting the waffle cone ($1.49) to hold the three generous scoops. It's also a great cost-saving option if you're looking to share.
Rich and sweet, Bordeaux Cherry tastes just like cherry pie.
Nanaimo is one of the newest flavours to star on the Kawartha Dairy roster. Inspired by the West Coast no-bake candy bar, it features dark chocolate and a coconut custard.
You can also never go wrong with a creamy classic like Mint Chip. It's one of those flavours that instantly reminds me of summers from my childhood.
For something a little less messy, the Milkshakes (Small $6.99, Huge $8.29) can be made with any flavour of your choosing and either chocolate or regular milk.
Smooth, cold, and delicious, just be careful not to drink too quickly, or you might face a brain freeze!
Kawartha Dairy is located at 888 Danforth Avenue.
Fareen Karim