Let’s talk about a classic treat: the milkshake. You might picture a delicious blend of ice cream, milk, and maybe some flavored syrup or malt for that extra touch of indulgence. This concoction is typically whipped together until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency—so thick that you might find yourself straining to sip it through a straw.
But hold on! If you’re in New England, what you think of as a milkshake is actually known as a “frappe.” Yes, that’s pronounced “frap,” not “fra-pay” like those fancy European coffee drinks or the overly sweetened creations from chain coffee shops.
When you order a milkshake in New England, expect to receive something quite different—a frothy mixture made simply with milk and flavored syrup. It’s all about shaking things up! The name says it all: “milk” plus “shake.” You take some cold milk, add your favorite syrup (chocolate or vanilla are popular choices), and shake it vigorously. Simple enough!
In fact, if you ask for a milkshake without the right accent in New England, don’t be surprised if your server corrects you with “You mean frappe?” Most locals know that what outsiders refer to as a milkshake is really just another name for their beloved frappe.
Now don’t get me wrong—I enjoy indulging in an old-fashioned thick milkshake alongside my burger just like anyone else. But let’s face it: burgers are hearty meals; pairing them with something equally heavy can be overwhelming. Personally, I find sipping on an ice-cold shake challenging enough without having to wash down rich food at the same time!
On the other hand, traditional New England-style shakes—made solely from milk and syrup—are light and refreshing. They glide effortlessly through your straw and make excellent companions for sandwiches or grinders rather than burgers. A frappe? That’s more like dessert—a decadent treat meant to be savored slowly until it’s just thin enough to sip.
Interestingly enough, I can’t recall the last time I saw someone order an actual traditional shake around here—even among locals! More often than not people opt for soda—or if they’re feeling nostalgic—they’ll request tonic (the old-school term used by many New Englanders). And guess where they’re ordering this? At the local “spa,” which refers to establishments featuring soda fountains run by skilled soda jerks who mix flavors right before your eyes.
The origin of calling these places “spas” remains somewhat unclear; however one theory suggests it’s derived from Spa—a town in Belgium known for its natural mineral springs famous since ancient times. For Puritanical folks in New England ordering tonic at such establishments feels much more wholesome than asking for soda at any deli!
But back on track—the main takeaway here is this: If you’ve never experienced an authentic New England-style shake (and chances are high that most haven’t), give one a try! Even die-hard frappe enthusiasts can appreciate both styles once they’ve tasted them side by side. Making one at home couldn’t be easier either: Just combine chilled milk with chocolate syrup or sugar mixed with vanilla extract; froth using an immersion blender then serve immediately in an icy glass—preferably while sporting your favorite pair of dungarees!