Dairy Queen (DQ) is a popular international chain of fast food restaurants known for its soft-serve ice cream and a variety of other fast-food items. Founded in 1940 in Joliet, Illinois, Dairy Queen is now headquartered in Edina, Minnesota. Over the years, the company expanded its menu beyond ice cream to include hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, and other fast-food staples. One of Dairy Queen's signature treats is the "Blizzard," a thick, soft-serve dessert mixed with ingredients like candy or cookies. Introduced in 1985, it's a fan favorite, often served upside-down to demonstrate its thickness. In addition to frozen treats, many locations offer an extended menu, especially under the "Grill & Chill" format, which includes more substantial meal options such as burgers, grilled sandwiches, and chicken strips. Dairy Queen operates over 6,400 locations worldwide, with a large presence in the United States and Texas hosting the most locations. It is also present in more than 25 other countries, though it has exited some markets over time. The company was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway in 1998, further cementing its place in the fast food industry. In addition to its main brand, Dairy Queen also operates alongside Orange Julius, offering blended fruit drinks at some locations.