Dutch Dreams — Restaurant in Toronto

Sad to say this will probably be my last time visiting Dutch Dreams. It’s gone waaaaaaayyyyy downhill. Firstly they’ve removed the whole experience of the “ice cream shoppe”. The social distancing measures they put in place for COVID are still there. You can’t look at all the ice creams anymore, you’re not up at the counter pointing out the flavours you want (it’s been said many times, we all “eat with our eyes” long before the first bite), and you don’t see your ice cream being scooped out. This also means there is no indoor seating anymore. So if the weather’s not great you may wind up in your vehicle eating your ice cream (and hoping the kiddos will be neat… 😬).

Secondly, and most importantly, the quality is now only in your dreams, instead of on your cone. They’ve started “cutting” the cream with either more milk or possibly even water. The texture… well there’s an actual texture to the ice cream now, instead of the smooth creaminess from even a year ago. I had ice crystals in my ice cream, and the cookie dough bits in the “batta’s cupboard” is now cylinders of granulated sugar, not “actual” dough (yes, I realize it is different from a dough you would bake, but it used to taste the same, not anymore). As other people have mentioned the waffle cone is no longer an actual cone, it’s about 2/3 of one shaped into a cup. Not only do I like getting a cone because I try to stay away from single use where possible (it’s also almost impossible to not use a spoon because of the size ratios) but you pay $2 for it, I expect a whole cone for that!

Speaking of the cone… mine was almost black. And this was deemed acceptable to serve. It’s not. Plain and simple. Is it easy to over cook waffle cone, for sure - take your eyes off them for 2 seconds too long at the wrong time and… burnt. It is then garbage. If people are paying for it, serving food that is almost charcoal (unless requested or actually part of the food item) is not acceptable. To their credit they did give me a replacement cone, but it should have never been served in the first place.

My family and I have been going to Dutch Dreams since they were on the other side of St Clair, and I have never had anything but an amazing experience… seems like those days are strictly in the past. I have been noticing a decline over the past year or so, but today was just horrible. And disappointing. I’m not sure if it’s under new ownership, or they’ve just gotten lazy and greedy, but this visit is officially the last time I will be giving them my money. At close to $10 for a single scoop waffle cone ice cream, I know there are many other places in Toronto where I can feel the product justifies the price point.

Edit: while I appreciate the business responding, and reaching out to me to “solve” the issues I brought up, I am declining to do so. Other than a time machine I don’t feel like there’s anything that can be done to change my view. I know they’re not going to start giving full (unburnt) waffle cones again and I doubt they will be changing back their recipes. Thanks, but no thanks. I think I will keep my happier memories of this place...

Dutch Dreams is renowned for its great variety of ice creams. Here's why it receives positive reviews:

Extensive Flavor Selection: Dutch Dreams offers an extensive selection of ice cream flavors, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences. From classic options like chocolate and vanilla to unique and creative flavors, there is something for everyone. Customers appreciate the variety and the opportunity to try new and exciting ice cream flavors.

Generous Portions: The portions at Dutch Dreams are often described as generous. Whether you order a cone, a cup, or a sundae, you can expect a satisfying portion size that leaves you feeling satisfied. The generous servings make it a popular choice for those who enjoy indulging in their favorite frozen treats.

Creative and Unique Creations: Dutch Dreams is known for its creative and unique ice cream creations. They offer a range of specialty sundaes, milkshakes, and ice cream cakes that go beyond the traditional scoop of ice cream. These innovative creations attract customers looking for a fun and delightful ice cream experience.

Quality Ingredients: The ice cream at Dutch Dreams is made with quality ingredients. They prioritize using fresh and premium ingredients to create their delicious frozen treats. This emphasis on quality contributes to the overall taste and enjoyment of the ice cream.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Dutch Dreams creates a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a popular spot for both children and adults. The vibrant and colorful decor, along with friendly staff, adds to the enjoyable experience of visiting the ice cream parlor.

If you're a fan of ice cream and seeking a place with a great variety of flavors and creative options, Dutch Dreams is a fantastic choice. With its extensive flavor selection, generous portions, creative creations, quality ingredients, and family-friendly atmosphere, you can indulge in a memorable and delicious ice...

Years ago, I was visiting Dutch Dreams far too often for a place that specializes in meal-sized portions of ice cream topped with cotton candy, whipped cream and fruit. The decor was a fever dream, the portions were huge and they had a photo with Drake by one of the tables. Every time I went I felt like a little kid who could finally order what they really wanted and I loved it.

Returning recently, I wish I could say that everything was the same, and on the outside it is (more or less): the decor is still there (although the indoor seating was restricted slightly while I was there), as are the portion sizes and my favorite photo. Indoor seating recently reopened (it remained closed long after lockdown policies ended and I think this will help). The homemade crepes and waffles I remember enjoying weren't available yet although I was told they would be soon.

Still, I have to say some of the magic seems to be missing. I had a brownie sundae, and while it looked very much like how I remembered, the ice cream flavors didn't quite live up to memory. The brownie pieces tasted (and looked) a lot like 2 bite brownies... the taste of everything was slightly muted to be honest. Overall I can say that the food seemed 'fresh' but for $20 including an Americano the experience was simply ok and I wouldn't see myself rushing back.

I really wish I could leave a 5 star review here. The owners were kind and attentive as always and I want their ice cream shop to stick around. If you're in the area and curious it is definitely worth a look for the ambiance alone; hopefully you have a better experience with...