From as far back as I can remember, my dad has always had this milkshake “quality check” technique.  You see my dad, much like myself, is very serious about his sweet treats.  I mean if you’re going to indulge, always indulge in only the best right.

So anyways, he would stick a straw in the shake, place it in the centre and then let go.  If the straw fell to the side, it was a very bad sign.  That meant you were in for a thin, watery mess and he would send it back immediately.  But if the straw didn’t budge at all… well then you were looking at thick, tasty, creamy goodness in a glass.  You know, the kind of milkshake that makes your heart smile.  Ooooh yeah.

I recently tried out the much talked about milkshake offerings of the Fire & Ice Hotel in town.  And I have to say, my dad would definitely approve.

Firstly I really love the hotel itself.  It’s bright & fun with lots of weird and wonderful things to discover around every corner.  If you’re ever there, do yourself a favour and check out the lifts.  I know that probably sounds pretty boring, but trust me on this one.  You might just end up taking a trip up Table Mountain or head under water to check out some sharks… But for the milkshakes, go take up a seat at the bar:

Then take your time and carefully read through their 27 milkshake flavours.  That’s right, twen-ty-se-ven!  And we’re not talking your regular chocolate, strawberry & lime flavours here people. (as much as I looooove lime)  There’s options like the Turkish delight “Belly dancer”, “Tutti Fruity” mango, orange & tots, “Hot Hicky” chili chocolate, “Black & White” Oreo cookies and “Peanana Nutter” peanut and banana butter.

After quite a bit of deliberation I finally settled on “That Blows” which is a bubblegum flavoured shake.  Yeah yeah, I know – not the most creative.  But I was having a huge nostalgic moment because I went through a huge bubblegum phase as a kid.  Bjorn went for the “Choc Rock Climber” which is yummy Ferreo Rocher flavoured.  Now check these babies out:

Hit me baby!

As big as these are, they are only what is referred to as a “half pint” and will cost you R35 each.  A full pint is R10 more and is MASSIVE.  You can bet your ass the full pint will put you straight into a milkshake coma.

Next time my folks are in town, we’ll be heading straight here for sure.  This has set a new standard for the Nicholls family shake test.

xxx