Black Tap is a New York–based burger and milkshake restaurant with a single physical location

Black Tap is a casual restaurant in Manhattan's SoHo neighborhood that serves burgers, fries, and milkshakes. The restaurant became known for elaborate, over-the-top milkshakes decorated with toppings like cookies, candy, whipped cream, and sometimes edible glitter or chocolate drizzle. You can visit the physical location at 129 Spring Street in New York City, or order delivery through third-party apps in the surrounding area.

The milkshakes are the main draw — they are large, heavily topped, and priced higher than a standard shake at a typical diner. A single shake can cost between $15 and $20 depending on the flavor and toppings. If you are not in New York City, you cannot order directly from Black Tap, though some grocery stores and online retailers have sold Black Tap branded bottled shakes in the past.

Key Takeaways

  • Black Tap milkshakes are made fresh at the restaurant's single location in Manhattan and are designed to be visually elaborate and Instagram-friendly.
  • A single shake costs roughly $15 to $20 and comes with substantial toppings on top and sometimes mixed into the shake itself.
  • You can order for delivery through apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, or Grubhub if you live in the delivery zone around SoHo, though delivery fees and wait times explore.
  • If you want to try Black Tap shakes without visiting New York, check whether bottled versions are available at specialty grocery stores or online retailers in your area.

What the menu shakes actually include

Black Tap's signature shakes come in rotating flavors and seasonal varieties. The restaurant publishes its current menu on its website and social media accounts. Each shake is made with a base of ice cream and milk, then topped with whipped cream, sauce drizzle, and candy or cookie pieces. Some shakes have toppings baked into the rim of the glass or layered throughout the drink itself.

Examples of past menu items include shakes topped with brownie pieces, crushed Oreos, gummy bears, chocolate chip cookies, or caramel sauce. The exact toppings and flavors change, so the shake you see on Instagram may not be available when you order. The restaurant also offers a basic milkshake menu without the elaborate decorations at a lower price point, though these are not what Black Tap is known for.

How to order for delivery or visit in person

If you live in New York City near the SoHo location, you can order through DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub, or other delivery apps. Search for "Black Tap" in the app and check whether your address is in the delivery zone. Delivery typically adds $2 to $5 in fees plus a tip, and the shake arrives in a sealed container. Because the shake is topped with items that can shift or melt during delivery, the presentation may not match the restaurant's photo.

To visit in person, go to 129 Spring Street, New York City, during the restaurant's posted hours. The location is small and often has a wait, especially on weekends and evenings. You can call ahead to ask about current wait times, though Black Tap does not take reservations for the counter seating.

Pricing and what affects the cost

A standard Black Tap milkshake runs $15 to $20 before tax and tip. The exact price depends on the flavor, the number and type of toppings, and whether you add extras like alcohol (the restaurant serves beer and wine). A shake with fewer toppings or a simpler flavor costs less than one with multiple candy types or premium add-ons.

If you order for delivery, add the delivery fee (usually $2 to $5), a service fee (typically 15 to 30 percent of the order), and tip. A $17 shake can easily become $25 to $28 after all fees. Ordering in person avoids these extra charges but requires travel to Manhattan and time to wait in line.

Bottled Black Tap shakes and grocery store availability

Black Tap has partnered with retailers to sell bottled milkshakes under the Black Tap brand. These are pre-made, shelf-stable or refrigerated products sold in grocery stores and online. They are not the same as the fresh shakes made at the restaurant — they are a different product with a longer shelf life and different ingredients.

Availability of bottled Black Tap shakes varies by region and retailer. Some Whole Foods locations, specialty grocery chains, and online retailers like Amazon have carried them at different times. Check your local grocery store's website or call ahead to see whether they stock Black Tap products. Prices for bottled shakes are typically lower than the restaurant's fresh shakes, usually $5 to $8 per bottle.

Alternatives if Black Tap is not accessible to you

If you cannot visit the Manhattan location or order delivery, other restaurants and ice cream shops make similar elaborate milkshakes. Many cities have local burger restaurants or dessert shops that offer heavily topped shakes with candy, cookies, and sauces. Search for "Instagram milkshakes" or "gourmet milkshakes" in your area to find comparable options.

You can also make a similar shake at home by starting with quality ice cream and milk, then topping it with whipped cream, candy, cookies, and sauce. This approach costs less than a restaurant shake and lets you customize the toppings to your taste. Recipes and topping ideas are widely available online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Black Tap shakes taste as good as they look?

Taste is personal, but the shakes are sweet and heavy on toppings. Many people find the visual presentation is the main appeal — the shake itself is a standard milkshake base. If you prefer less-sweet drinks or simpler flavors, the elaborate toppings may feel like too much.

Can I order Black Tap shakes outside of New York City?

You cannot order fresh shakes from the restaurant outside the delivery zone. Bottled Black Tap shakes are sometimes sold in grocery stores and online, but availability varies by location and changes over time. Check your local stores or search online retailers to see what is currently in stock.

How long does a Black Tap shake stay good if I order delivery?

A delivered shake should be consumed within 30 to 45 minutes of arrival. The ice cream will melt, and toppings may become soggy. If delivery takes longer than expected, the shake may arrive partially melted. Ordering in person avoids this problem.

Are there dietary options like vegan or sugar-free shakes?

Black Tap's menu focuses on indulgent, topped shakes. Call the restaurant directly at their SoHo location to ask about current dietary options, as menus change and the restaurant may offer alternatives not listed online.