I ordered milkshakes from Dairy Queen, Carvel, and Baskin-Robbins. There was a clear winner in terms of flavor and value.

I tried strawberry milkshakes from Dairy Queen, Carvel, and Baskin-Robbins.

Ava Bertone I ordered strawberry milkshakes from Dairy Queen, Carvel, and Baskin-Robbins.

I compared each one based on taste, texture, price, and overall value.

Overall, the milkshake from Carvel was my favorite, and I'd definitely order it again.

Here's the thing: I'm a chocolate lover by nature.

But there's something about a scorching summer day that makes me yearn for something lighter and more refreshing.

A strawberry milkshake always fits the bill.

So, I visited three of the most popular frozen-dessert chains in the game — Dairy Queen, Carvel, and Baskin-Robbins — to see which one offered the most satisfying version of this nostalgic summertime treat.

I compared each one based on taste, texture, price, and overall value.

Here's how it went.

My first stop was Dairy Queen.

Ava Bertone Dairy Queen opened its first restaurant in 1940 in Joliet, Illinois.

Today, there are more than 7,800 locations around the world.

Although I'm typically a fan of Dairy Queen's blended Blizzard treats — and more specifically, something rich and chocolatey — I was excited to try something a bit different this time.