There are a few factors we took into consideration when creating this list. One is the texture. An icier, less foamy slush drink is better. Two is thickness and consistency. Lastly is the quality and quantity of flavours available. Because these flavours change out so often, more is often better, but a hidden gem that stands out will absolutely get bonus points.
I have fond memories of being a teenager, running into Mac’s convenience store by my old school, and drowning all my worries in the sugar-packed release of a Froster. Back then, I had a choice of up to eight different flavours. At the time, that felt like a lot. But then came this brand new, state-of-the-art Circle K that popped up in the new part of Rutherford. Not only does it have 16 different flavours at any time, but it also has Polar Pop drinks and soft-serve ice cream for making screamers.
In my opinion, the 7-Eleven Slurpee is slightly inferior to the Circle K Froster in most ways. The texture is a bit fluffier, foamier, less icy and not quite as thick. Of course, this can change from machine to machine, from shop to shop. New models of slush machines and better maintenance all contribute to these factors. One 7-Eleven that consistently nails it, outclassing most others like it, is the 7-Eleven on Ellerslie Road. But more than the quality machines, you can also buy booze here. Now I’m not endorsing this, but when I got home, I definitely mixed some Corona with my slush and made my own homemade bulldog. That’s something you can’t do with many other stores in town.
This is the golden ticket right here. The first slushy I ever had (yes, I can remember the actual first slushy I ever had) was from the Petrolia Mini Mart. The interior was a landlord special of white walls, peeling paint, and cracked discoloured ceiling tiles and they sold bongs, pipes and other adult paraphernalia from behind the counter. It may have been a bit dingy, but it always had this Sprite-esque flavour that was the most refreshing thing on a hot summer day. Sadly, like many mom-and-pop corner stores, Petrolia eventually closed down.
But then, one day, I walked into Ritchie Foods. While the building is nicer, the owners still managed to have the same independent feeling that Petrolia had. And I swear that the lemon-lime slushy drink they have is identical to the one I used to love as a kid.
