Something sweet is coming to Downtown Downers Grove — and it will be a first for Illinois.

MilkShake Factory is opening its first Illinois location at the new Domain on Main development in Downtown Downers Grove, bringing its over century-old tradition of handcrafted milkshakes and chocolates to the Chicago suburbs.

The Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation announced the new addition on September 1, with Oakwood Construction Services serving as the general contractor for the location.

MilkShake Factory Is Coming to Downtown Downers Grove

The new MilkShake Factory will be part of Domain on Main at 4915 Main Street, a new mixed-use development in the heart of Downtown Downers Grove.

The project combines ground-floor commercial space with 21 luxury residential units and sits just steps from the Downers Grove Metra station.

That puts the new dessert shop within walking distance of Downtown Downers Grove's existing restaurants, shops and businesses — as well as the steady flow of commuters traveling through the downtown area.

What Is MilkShake Factory?

Despite being new to Illinois, MilkShake Factory has a history stretching back more than 100 years.

The company's story began in 1914, when Charlie and Orania opened a small chocolate shop and soda fountain in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood after immigrating from Greece.

Four generations later, the family business has evolved into the MilkShake Factory concept and is now expanding to communities across the country.

Its menu centers around handspun milkshakes made with housemade ice cream and premium chocolates.

Depending on the location, customers can also find treats such as chocolate-covered strawberries, chocolate bark and dairy-free milkshake options.

MilkShake Factory Is Expanding Across the Country

The Downers Grove opening comes as MilkShake Factory is in the middle of a significant national expansion.

The company's current locations stretch beyond its Pittsburgh roots into states including Michigan, Indiana, Colorado, Florida, North Carolina and Virginia, among others.

But until now, Illinois hasn't had a MilkShake Factory location.

That makes Downtown Downers Grove the brand's first entry into the Illinois market.

Another Addition to a Growing Downtown Downers Grove

The announcement is also part of a larger wave of investment happening around Downtown Downers Grove.

Domain on Main itself is one of several developments taking shape in the community. The mixed-use project was designed to bring new residential units and commercial space directly into the downtown district.

Other projects currently highlighted by the Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation include new residential developments, restaurants, recreation concepts and additional commercial investments.

Domain on Main's location could be particularly attractive for businesses.

The development sits along Main Street near the BNSF Metra station, with restaurants, shops and other downtown destinations surrounding it.

When Will MilkShake Factory Open?

An exact grand opening date for the Downers Grove MilkShake Factory has not yet been announced.

Construction is moving forward, however, and the Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation has confirmed that the location will open as part of the Domain on Main development.

Once it does, residents won't have to travel outside Illinois to try the brand's handcrafted shakes and chocolates.

And with its location right in the middle of Downtown Downers Grove, MilkShake Factory could quickly become another popular stop for families, shoppers, commuters and anyone looking for something sweet.