Illinois Gets Its First Menchie's

By Caitlin Klein in Food on Feb 1, 2012 4:40PM

Popular LA-based frozen yogurt franchise Menchie’s has made its way to the Land of Lincoln. Kim Hardy (of Northbrook) opened her Menchie’s frozen yogurt shop in Highland Park on Dec. 29. Despite the chilling temperatures, Highland Park's Menchie’s has been very busy. "I was looking for a space, and when this became available, I had to get it," said Hardy. Apparently Chicagoland’s love for frozen dairy treats knows no seasons.

Menchie's carries 14 flavors of kosher frozen yogurt. The most popular are red velvet, cake batter, and the ubiquitous chocolate and vanilla. Buyers assemble cups of self-serve frozen yogurt with toppings, and cups are weighed to determine the price. The average price per cup is around $4.00. There are a few non-dairy flavors, including mango sorbet, a favorite of store manager Mark Saint Amour.

We asked Ms. Hardy why city dwellers should haul themselves out to Highland Park to give Menchie's a try, when there are already plenty of frozen yogurt shops downtown. "Menchie's will really give you a unique, friendly experience. We'll give you tour of the store. We welcome every customer who walks through the door. You can sample all of our flavors so you get exactly what you want. What really makes us different is the Menchie's experience." Saint Amour added, "Frozen yogurt shops in the city can feel rushed and reclusive. Here, there are bright colors. The store is open. I can breathe. We have fun here."

Menchie's is located at 1929 Sheridan Road in Highland Park, walking distance from the Highland Park Metra Station.