New DQ Restaurant to Open Sweet Spot for Locals in Ithaca, NY

American Dairy Queen Corporation (ADQ), an iconic leader in treats and food, today announced a new DQ restaurant with its grand opening on January 18. Conveniently located next to Buttermilk Falls at 407 Elmira Rd, the new restaurant will be owned and operated by Milan Patel.

“I’ve always aspired to be an entrepreneur and build something of my own,” said Patel. “For more than 85 years, Dairy Queen has been a place where families gather and memories are made. Opening a DQ in Ithaca allows me to bring that tradition to life for this community. It’s a place where students, families, and friends can come together to create lasting memories.”

Before joining Dairy Queen, Patel built his career in the hospitality industry, beginning in hotels during high school and later joining a hotel management and ownership group, where he gained valuable hands-on experience in operations and guest services. His entrepreneurial journey led him to open his first DQ restaurant in August 2023 in Elmira, NY. Patel hopes to continue expanding his presence across upstate New York while creating meaningful opportunities for his team members.

Community involvement will be central to the new restaurant’s mission. The team plans to partner with local schools, engage with the college communities in Ithaca, and participate in events that celebrate and support local residents, in addition to Dairy Queen’s national partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

The restaurant will serve hot food and treats, including Signature Stackburgers™, Chicken Strip Baskets and world-famous DQ soft serve in cones, sundaes, shakes, and the signature Blizzard® Treat, among many more craveable menu items.

A welcoming environment for all, the new DQ restaurant features a modern design with large comfortable booths, community tables and chairs, a designated mobile order pick-up counter, drive-thru lanes, and an outdoor patio.

The restaurant will be open, starting on January 18, from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., Sunday through Saturday. The Ithaca restaurant marks Patel’s second DQ location.

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