Welcome to The Freeze
The Freeze is a fast-food haven that perfectly blends frozen desserts and classic comfort food. Located at 131 Hawley St, Grayslake, IL, this spot holds a special place for locals and visitors alike. Known for a vibrant atmosphere, The Freeze specializes in a variety of ice cream treats, burgers, hot dogs, and sides. It truly shines in summer, offering a delightful escape from the heat with its refreshing sundaes and shakes. Visitors rave about the fast service and friendly staff who enhance the dining experience, making it a perfect stop for a quick bite. With options for seating and takeaway, The Freeze is accessible and inviting for families, groups, and solo diners.
Popular dishes
Restaurant Gallery






About
The Freeze resides conveniently on bustling Hawley Street, making it easy to drop by anytime. This location buzzes with energy, especially during warmer months when families flock to enjoy their favorite treats. The casual and trendy atmosphere welcomes all ages, while the outdoor seating under umbrellas adds a charming touch. Whether you want to grab a cone to savor while strolling or sit down for a hearty meal with friends, The Freeze has you covered. Accessibility is a priority here, featuring a wheelchair-friendly entrance and restroom facilities, ensuring everyone can partake in the fun. The ample parking space, including free options, makes visiting even more convenient. The community vibes radiate warmth, as you often see families and friends laughing and enjoying meals together. Your heart will swell watching kids savor their ice cream as they create memories that last a lifetime.
In addition, The Freeze offers delivery and takeaway options, perfect for those busy summer days when leaving home isn’t ideal. The staff’s focus on pleasant service enhances the overall experience. Many visitors express delight at not only the delicious food but also the friendly atmosphere. Attending local events or simply enjoying the charming weather while indulging in a decadent sundae become cherished moments at this beloved spot. This blend of good food, accessibility, and community spirit makes The Freeze a must-visit for anyone in the Grayslake area.
Working Hours
- SundayOpen
- MondayOpen
- TuesdayOpen
- WednesdayOpen
- ThursdayOpen
- FridayOpen
- SaturdayOpen
What People Say
Most Liked
Customers rave about the seasonal offerings, especially the apple caramel sundae, which is a showstopper during autumn. Ice cream lovers will appreciate the unique flavors available, from classic cones to specialty sundaes like Pecan Delight and Snickers. The value combos, priced affordably at around $7.18, make enjoying a burger and fries accessible for everyone. Many visitors enjoy the crispy fries and the well-cooked burgers that rival popular smash burgers. The inviting environment, with picnic tables surrounded by cheerful umbrellas, sets the perfect backdrop for a casual gathering. Additionally, furry friends are not left out—ask for a pup cup during your visit! The friendly service keeps patrons coming back for more. A warm, welcoming vibe awaits, making every visit a delightful experience.
A surprising highlight is the array of drinks and floats, perfect for pairing with any meal. The cookie crunch shake gets attention for its creamy texture, ensuring it’s a must-try for shake enthusiasts.
Most Disliked
Some guests have mentioned the potential for heavy shakes being a concern, especially for those with dietary restrictions like lactose intolerance. While the ambiance is casual, a few patrons felt it could get crowded during peak hours, causing longer wait times. The ice cream shop's popularity sometimes means that seeking a table can take a moment, particularly on sunny days. Despite the hustle, the energy is lively, reflecting a community hub. A few visitors noted that late-night operations could benefit from extended hours in summer, catering to those spontaneous late-night ice cream cravings. Additionally, while many flavors receive rave reviews, some patrons expressed a desire for more unique and adventurous options in the rotation. Concerns about limited indoor seating have also been mentioned, though many prefer the outdoor experience. Regardless, the positives often outweigh the negatives, reinforcing its reputation as a go-to destination.
The focus on takeout has left a few feeling the dining experience could be enhanced with more table service options during busy times.
Reviews
Schuyler B.
What a gem! We found this while checking out the area when a relative moved into town. We really loved their seasonal apple caramel sundae. It was spectacular!!! Just the right blend of toppings that lasted all the way through the ice cream. 🥰🥰
Nathan H.
I can't believe I've never been here before. Definitely coming back. They have all the traditional favorites and even though it looked really busy we were served fast!
Jemmy V.
This freeze here is the best thing ever! I waited day after day to come and I finally got the chance to grab a bite and dessert! There was a freeze similar to this in chicago, but it got shut down unfortunately 3 years ago! I was very sad because I enjoyed having burgers and fries and ice cream sundae simultaneously However, ever since i found out another freeze in illinois, I was excited to try it out. Sadly, it was too far from Chicago, so I had to wait and wait till that day, which was today! The weather was beautiful and so was the place. I love seeing families enjoying their meals and laughing (warms my heart ♥️😊). I ordered a double burger with fries & medium hot fudge sundae and everything was just amazing! The workers there were super nice and caring throughout each order! The burger was cooked to perfection and it was like eating like a smashburger! The fries were yummy & crispy! The sundae was so original and flavorful! I had to order 2 more burgers and a sundae for to go! Overall, this was definitely a good day to stop, eat their delicious food,& enjoy the weather! Highly recommended! Even though it is far, I'd be happy to come by soon 😁
Adham H.
Great spot! Was in the area and spotted it unintentionally. With just about a week left til they close, it's never too cold for ice cream. I got the cookie crunch shake and it was delicious. But a little heavy on the stomach for the lactose intolerant people. FYI. Would do it again though! Til next summer!
Brendan F.
Our absolute favorite ice cream place of all time. One of the gems of living in Grayslake. Bring your pup and ask for a pup cup when you order!
Edward K.
We adore the freeze. The basic menu is excellent and the specials are so much fun. The staff are always so nice and friendly. The atmosphere is stellar and really knits the downtown community together as soon as the weather is nice. They have great burgers and fries, but the ice cream is really the best. The Freeze opening up is a much better indicator of good times to come than any groundhog in Pennsylvania. Thanks, Freeze family!
Justin H.
My family and I love this place. Food and ice cream are affordable and good. Always has a great atmosphere between the staff and the families that pack the place. Have never had a bad experience here.