Over the last few years, crazy shakes became Instagram famous. Millions of photos of over-the-top milkshakes scattered feeds across the world, popularizing the dessert and challenging the very definition of a milkshake.
The evolution of the milkshake
Restaurants in big cities, such as Black Tap Craft Burgers and Beer in NYC, became Insta famous for their milkshake creations; meal-shakes, if you will. Towering milkshakes overflowing with goodies started to pop up in more and more places, and finally, downtown Binghamton has been #blessed with a new joint that serves the trendy dessert.
Crazy shakes come to Binghamton
In the beginning of March, Craft Bar + Kitchen opened in downtown Binghamton. The NYC-inspired restaurant was met with a warm welcome on Washington Street. True to its name, Craft features an extensive craft beer selection featuring tons of local brews. The food menu is limited but tasteful, featuring small bites and upscale bar food. If you’re looking for an affordable bite or a fun night out with friends, Craft is the place to be.
I have been wanting to try a crazy shake for a year and counting! These shakes typically cost upwards of $15 in the New York City/Long Island area, but at Craft, the shakes are only $7.99. What a deal! With funky names like “The Unicorn” and “Binghamton Blackout”, they are simply irresistible. Plus they are surefire Insta gold.
I tried the Hot Honey milkshake, which is a vanilla milkshake topped with a beer battered chicken tender, mini waffles, and, of course, whipped cream. To finish the shake, hot honey is drizzled on top. I cannot say enough about this shake! I sucked it down in less than five minutes. It was the perfect harmony of sweet, spicy, creamy, and salty goodness. The Unicorn is the next shake on my list. It’s decked out with pop rocks, cotton candy, and an ice cream cone; it’s a party of pink fun and flavor.
Craft Eats
The food menu is fairly limited, including sliders, sides, and salads. The sliders are where it’s at. For only $3.99 each, you can choose from nine mouthwatering options from beef to chicken to pork to fish. Every slider order is also served with house chips, with an option to upgrade to a premium side. I devoured a Korean Pork Belly slider and a Social Slider, and upgraded my side to the Craft tots for an additional $2.
The sliders, though small, packed so much flavor, texture, and juiciness. They are little bites of heaven. The pork belly one had a spicy kick from Sriracha aioli and sweet chili sauce. The Social Slider, a beef patty with brie cheese, arugula, and balsamic onion jam, was my favorite because the unexpected ingredients added a tasty twist to a classic burger. I wasn’t as impressed with the tots or house chips, but everything besides the sides exceeded my expectations and made for a great meal.
Overall, Craft is the perfect spot for a quick bite or a night out with friends. Each table is set with games like Uno and Connect Four, which makes it a great place to go with a group. The menu is diverse and robust despite its limited options. I can’t wait to try the rest of the sliders and shakes, and maybe even the beers! The atmosphere, affordability, and delicious menu options make it somewhere I look forward to visiting again and again.