The basics:
MilkShake Factory opens Nov. 14 at Middletown Plaza on Route 35
Pittsburgh-based chain now has 5 New Jersey locations
Grand opening includes buy-one-get-one-free shake, sundae and cup offer
Middletown Plaza reported 73% traffic increase after $7.7M redevelopment
MilkShake Factory is spinning into another New Jersey town.
Located at 1377 Route 35 in Middletown, the premium dessert chain is set to begin mixing things up Nov. 14.
As part of the grand-opening festivities, MilkShake Factory will feature a buy-one, get-one-free offer on shakes, sundaes and cups from noon to 4 p.m. Planned giveaways include a gift basket for the first guest in line and free MilkShake Factory T-shirts for the first 100 customers, according to the brand.
MilkShake Factory launched in 1914 as a family-run soda fountain and chocolate shop in Pittsburgh. It has since evolved into a franchise with more than 45 outposts nationwide.
The menu includes an assortment of indulgent milkshakes, such as chocolate dipped strawberry and campfire s’mores. The chain also serves handcrafted sundaes, molten chocolate cups and house-made chocolate treats.
Sugar rush
MilkShake Factory made its New Jersey debut last fall in Jersey City. Since then, the chain has added locations in Ridgewood, Florham Park and Somerville.
In Middletown, the soon-to-open shop is owned and operated by husband-wife duo John and Andrea Walsh, according to MilkShake Factory.
The Middletown MilkShake Factory is owned and operated by husband-wife duo John and Andrea Walsh. – PROVIDED BY MILKSHAKE FACTORY
Commenting on the launch, Andrea Walsh said, “Middletown has been home to our family for more than a decade, and there’s something really special about opening our first MilkShake Factory right here. We’ve raised our children here, built wonderful friendships, and made so many memories along the way.”
She added, “Being able to bring something we genuinely love to the people who have been part of our lives makes this opportunity even more meaningful. We can’t wait to open our doors and share it with everyone.”
John Walsh said they intend to make the store “the kind of place where families make memories, kids look forward to stopping by after school, and neighbors run into familiar faces.”
“What drew us to MilkShake Factory was the care that goes into everything they make, and we’re excited to bring that same level of quality and hospitality to Middletown. Our hope is that this becomes a place people return to again and again, not just for the milkshakes, but because they feel welcome every time they walk through the door,” he said.
MilkShake Factory made its New Jersey debut last fall in Jersey City. – PROVIDED BY MILKSHAKE FACTORY
Middletown Plaza
Following the grand opening, the location is open daily from noon to 10 p.m.
At Middletown Plaza, Milkshake Factory joins a lineup that includes Trader Joe’s, Retro Fitness, Skechers, European Wax Center, Wonder, Petco, Nothing Bundt Cakes, Club Pilates, The UPS Store, Eat Clean Bro, Perspire Sauna Studio, Shake Shack and Affinity Credit Union.
The Brixmor Property Group-owned shopping center recently underwent a $7.7 million redevelopment. The work converted the former sites of a Walgreens and Party Fair into a 12,000 square-foot Trader Joe’s with additional retail tenants.
Since completing the transformation in late 2024, the firm has reported a 73% increase in traffic at the 201,550-square-foot shopping center.
MilkShake Factory in Middletown:
Dining and Cooking