Bob's Dairy Dream
If you're cruising around East Peoria and your sweet tooth kicks in, Bob's Dairy Dream is where you want to steer your cravings. Nestled at 108 Melville Ct, this charming little spot is more than just an ice cream joint — it's a local favorite with a nostalgic twist.
What makes Bob's Dairy Dream so special? For starters, the vibe is unmistakably retro, giving off those classic American diner feels. It’s the kind of place where families stop by after a game, and friends catch up over cones piled high with soft serve. The menu leans heavily into dairy delights, with crowd-pleasers like banana splits, sundaes drenched in hot fudge, and impossibly creamy shakes.
But don’t think it’s all about dessert. Bob’s also dishes out savory comfort food like burgers and chili cheese dogs that pair perfectly with an old-school root beer float. Everything is made with that extra touch of care you’d expect from a place that’s become a staple in the community.
The staff? Super friendly and always ready to make suggestions if you’re stuck choosing between their many flavor options. Whether you’re a regular or it's your first visit, there's this welcoming, small-town warmth that keeps people coming back.
In a world of flashy chains and over-the-top trends, Bob's Dairy Dream keeps it simple — and that’s exactly why it works. It’s got that "hidden gem" energy, a true throwback that delivers classic flavors in a way that feels fresh every time.
So, next time you're nearby and looking for a place that hits the sweet spot, you know exactly where to go.
Reviews
Common looking for a small town ice cream stand with basics. It has the cold treats and hot eats. Bob's Dairy Dream is a pretty dinky place where you order at a counter. Food is mostly things like ice cream, but also burgers and hot dogs. The prices are okay. About the coolest thing in East Peoria literally and figuratively. It just so happened we were close and needed to cool off. There's not that much to impress but it's a place with some good summer treats. Both of us got a slushie because that's about all that sounded good. It's about $1.70 for a medium. There's a few flavors including Blue Raspberry. Hot food isn't vegetarian friendly. It's burgers, hot dogs, and your standard junk food at this type of place. The prices are pretty good for this kind of stuff.
The best small town feeling ice cream place around! The ice cream is great and the staff is super friendly and always does an outstanding job!
I really like Bobs's! There soft serve is much better than the average ice cream shop. Very nice workers. A plus is a good selection and delicious food. Burgers, Chicken Strips and Chili Dogs are my favourites. Stop by if your in town!
My friends and I were passing through Peoria when we stumbled upon this hidden gem. It's a very small place, but the ice cream was awesome! I had the s'mores twister, which was a little melty when I got it but was still delicious. We all shared an order of chicken tenders, which were great too. Only complaint was that we were charged for cups of water without knowing that they cost anything. However, the woman who served us was very nice! Would definitely recommend Bob's to anyone in the area.
Review Visit: August 8th, 2013 Bob's dreams must have been moo-velous! Puns aside, this is another place that I have visited frequently before I created my travel list. It was conveniently located next to my friend's house, so we would walk over and grab something to snack on while playing Magic or video games. Like most other Ice Cream Shacks I have visited, this place offers a big menu for being in a little building. Ice cream, burgers, hot dogs, soda, nachos... it offers pretty much something for everyone. I have always been happy with everything I order and visit it at least once a year. It is a seasonal place, so check before you go if it is near Fall/Autumn. A big bonus if you are 21+ is the liquor store next door. Your kids can get some root beer and you can get some 'adult' root beer at The New Twist! Sadly, I don't have any more photos of Bob's Dairy Dream, as back then, I didn't think I would need them for this blog. But I will post more if I ever take more!