Menu of Graham's Dairy Freez in Ottumwa, Iowa

Menu Overview

Graham's Dairy Freez in Ottumwa, Iowa, stands as a timeless emblem of classic roadside ice cream culture. Nestled at 627 W 2nd St, this humble ice cream shop graces visitors with an inviting local vibe—unpretentious yet brimming with flavor. The menu itself is a delightful journey through nostalgic treats and inventive frozen desserts, offering something for everyone who craves both comfort and novelty.

Among the highlights, the Blue Raspberry Slush immediately grabs attention. Its vibrant, tangy sweetness is refreshingly balanced, perfect for warm Iowa afternoons. The Lemon Cone introduces a tangy twist to the traditional cone, delivering a bright citrus punch that dances lightly with the creamy vanilla base. Chocolate lovers will appreciate the Chocolate Milkshake, a rich and smooth concoction that strikes the right chord of indulgence without overwhelming the palate.

For those seeking unique flavor combinations, Graham's affable menu surprises with the Puppy Chow and Affogato. Puppy Chow offers a nostalgic bite that blends crunchy, sweet, and salty notes, while the Affogato expertly marries robust espresso with velvety ice cream, catering to both dessert and coffee aficionados alike.

The treat selection, featuring favorites like Big Wheels, Lilybar, and Drumsticks, delivers reliable, classic satisfaction. Cones come in an array of creative twists—Vanilla, Chocolate & Vanilla Twist, Orange Pineapple & Vanilla Twist, and more—showcasing the brand’s playful spirit and commitment to variety.

Beverage-wise, Graham's offers a comprehensive selection of Soda & Freezes, including the indulgent Flurry and the hefty “Monster” Soda or Freeze, which at $7.00 provides generous servings perfect for sharing or for those with a big sweet tooth. The customer-favorite Root Beer Float, especially when made with Graham’s own root beer, embodies the essence of a classic ice cream stand—simple, nostalgic, and utterly satisfying.

Customer experiences further underscore Graham’s charm and quality. Ravi Singh’s praise for the friendly, welcoming atmosphere and the expertly crafted root beer float highlights the stand’s warm local appeal. Meanwhile, Tank’s glowing review of the upside-down banana split paired with a flurry loaded with brownie bites and hot fudge underscores Graham's commitment to both dessert excellence and efficient, cheerful service—even on scorching days. Jill Myers and Johnnette Williams echo these sentiments, emphasizing the consistent quality of shakes, cones, and walking tacos that keep patrons returning.

However, like any local gem, it isn’t without occasional hiccups. Lisa Aspen’s feedback reminds us that while the menu offers standout items like the walking taco and expertly crafted shakes, quality can sometimes fluctuate. Yet, it’s clear the team’s dedication to improving customer experience remains strong.

Ultimately, Graham's Dairy Freez captures the soul of an old-school ice cream stand with its blend of timeless classics and thoughtful innovations. Whether you’re after the refreshing zing of a Blue Raspberry Slush, the richness of a Chocolate Milkshake, or the homely comfort of a walking taco, this Ottumwa staple delivers a menu brimming with both flavor and heart.