MilkShake Factory Opens New Location in Darien, CT on Saturday, May 9, 2026

Darien, CT – MilkShake Factory is opening its newest location in Darien, Connecticut. The new store officially opens on Saturday, May 9, 2026 bringing the brand’s signature desserts to the Fairfield County community.

The Darien store will host a grand opening event on May 9, 2026, from 12 PM to 4 PM, featuring a buy one, get one free offer on shakes, sundaes and molten cups, free MilkShake Factory T-shirts for the first 100 guests, and festive giveaways throughout the afternoon.

The Darien store is owned and operated by franchisee Scott Ackerman, who first learned about MilkShake Factory through a franchise consultant. What started as an introduction to the concept quickly became a personal connection after Ackerman met the team, tried the product and learned more about the family story behind the brand.

“As soon as I tried the products and became familiar with the team, it became easy to picture MilkShake Factory in Darien,” said Scott Ackerman, owner/operator of MilkShake Factory Darien. “There’s a lot of care behind the brand, but the experience itself is simple and fun. It’s the kind of place where someone can stop in with their kids, meet a friend after school or pick up something sweet on the way home.”

Founded in 1914 as a soda fountain and chocolate shop, MilkShake Factory has evolved into a modern dessert destination while preserving its family recipes and commitment to quality. Every milkshake is made with housemade ice cream and can be customized with premium mix-ins and toppings, while the brand’s chocolates are crafted using time-honored techniques passed down through generations.

Positioned in a highly walkable part of Darien, the new store is surrounded by schools, nearby housing and the train station, making it an easy stop for families, students, commuters and neighbors throughout the day. With the middle school just two blocks away, a preschool next door and the station across the street, the location naturally fits into the daily rhythm of the community.

“For me, the exciting part is not just opening the doors, but getting to know the community around us,” said Ackerman. “Darien has families, students, commuters and neighbors passing through this area every day, and I see this as an opportunity to create a place that feels welcoming, consistent and fun for all of them.”

The Darien opening marks MilkShake Factory’s second location in Connecticut, reflecting the brand’s continued growth in the state and growing demand for its handspun milkshakes, housemade ice cream and premium chocolates.

MilkShake Factory’s menu features an assortment of indulgent milkshake flavors, including fan favorites like Chocolate Dipped Strawberry and Campfire S’mores, alongside handcrafted sundaes, molten chocolate cups, and housemade chocolate treats. Every item is made with MilkShake Factory’s signature ice cream, created fresh in-store daily using the Edwards family’s exclusive recipe.