Prices last updated: October 28, 2026
Ever pulled into a Dairy Queen craving a Chicken Strip Basket, only to find out they only sell ice cream? You probably stopped at a treat-only DQ. Here is the difference between the types of Dairy Queen restaurants and how to know what your local store serves before you go.
The three kinds of Dairy Queen
- DQ Grill & Chill: the modern full-menu restaurant, with burgers, chicken strips, hot dogs, sides and the full treat menu, plus dine-in seating and a drive-thru.
- Classic DQ (Brazier and older full-menu stores): older restaurants that also serve food; menus may be smaller and some have regional items like steak fingers or pork tenderloin sandwiches.
- DQ Treat (treat-only stores): often walk-up, mall, kiosk or seasonal stores that sell Blizzards, cones, sundaes, shakes, cakes and drinks, but no hot food.
What every Dairy Queen sells
Blizzards, cones, sundaes, shakes and most classic treats are available at every type of DQ. See the Blizzard menu, cones and sundaes and classic treats.
What only full-menu Dairy Queens sell
Food is served only at Grill & Chill and other full-menu restaurants: burgers, chicken strips, hot dogs and sides and the $7 Meal Deal.
How to check your local DQ
- Open the DQ app or the store locator on dairyqueen.com; full-menu stores show the food menu.
- Look at the sign: “Grill & Chill” means food is available.
- Walk-up windows without seating are usually treat-only.
Why the difference?
Dairy Queen restaurants are independently owned franchises, and running a grill requires more space, equipment and staff. Smaller and seasonal locations often focus on treats only, which keeps costs and prices lower.
Grill & Chill vs. DQ Treat FAQ
What is a DQ Grill & Chill?
A full-menu Dairy Queen restaurant that serves burgers, chicken and other food as well as treats, usually with dine-in seating and a drive-thru.
Do all Dairy Queens sell Blizzards?
Yes. Blizzards and other treats are sold at every type of Dairy Queen, including treat-only stores.