A sweet new chapter at Port Perry Dairy Queen

COLLEEN GREEN The Standard

SCUGOG: There’s something refreshing happening at the Port Perry Dairy Queen, and it goes far beyond a cone or a Blizzard. Since taking ownership, in November 2025, this hardworking husband-and-wife team of Mahir and Meeda Patel, has brought new energy, warmth, and creativity to a location they had admired for years.

Their journey to ownership wasn’t overnight. Both came to Canada with big ambitions and a willingness to work. From early days, at places like Subway, Tim Hortons, and Burger King, to building careers as a maintenance technician and a lab technician, in chemistry, they steadily worked toward a shared goal: owning a business of their own. That dream first became reality with a Dairy Queen in Oshawa, where they gained hands-on experience in every aspect of the operation.

Now in Port Perry, they’ve found, not just a business but, a community.

Customers are already noticing the difference. Friendly service, a welcoming atmosphere, and a genuine commitment to treating people well have quickly become the hallmark of this location. “We want people to feel happy when they come in,” they said, and it shows.

Perhaps the most unique touch comes from Mrs. Patel’s creative talent behind the counter.

A self-taught cake designer with a passion for detail, Meeda Patel transforms Dairy Queen’s signature ice cream cakes into edible works of art. From elegant floral designs and whimsical children’s themes to fully customized creations, featuring edible images, no two cakes are the same. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or special celebration, customers can work directly with her, to bring their vision to life. Mrs. Patel's designs, often shared on social media, have already started turning heads in the community.

Beyond cakes, the Port Perry Dairy Queen offers the full menu of fan favourites, from burgers and chicken baskets to sundaes, parfaits and classic frozen treats. For families looking to celebrate, there’s more good news: the location is available for birthday parties and group gatherings, by reservation. With plenty of space and a fun, casual atmosphere, it’s a perfect spot for kids (and kids at heart) to celebrate.

With a grand opening celebration planned and special promotions on the horizon, including Mother’s Day cake offers, this new chapter is just getting started.

For the Mahir and Meeda, it all comes down to one simple idea: good service, good people, and a place where everyone feels welcome.

In Port Perry, that’s proving to be a recipe for success.