Here in Milwaukee, we don't typically eat ice cream, we eat frozen custard...by the carton! Frozen custard is a lot like ice cream (but way better) and contains egg yolk. Being the dairy state, we have all the ingredients we need right at our fingertips! Custard is also different from ice cream in its texture, which is made possible by the large machines that produce the sweet treat without exposing it to the air.
Milwaukee's history with frozen custard goes way back, and now some would even deem us the frozen custard capital of the world. The southern half of Wisconsin is filled with frozen custard stands, but here in Milwaukee, we have the best of the best—including the oldest frozen custard restaurant in the state! These seven restaurants are must-experience spots for frozen custard, and you'll want to try every single one of them.
1. Kopp's Frozen Custard
Kopp's is a staple in any true Milwaukeean’s diet, and there's a good reason for it. This restaurant serves up some of the best frozen custard, but their jumbo burgers make the meal. Though there are many other great custard options out there, you haven't really experienced Milwaukee until you've had Kopp's... and religiously check their "flavor forecast."
Kopp's Frozen Custard has three Milwaukee area locations:
Greenfield: 7631 W. Layton Ave.
Brookfield: 18880 W. Bluemound Rd.
Glendale: 5373 N. Port Washington Rd.
2. Gilles Frozen Custard
Gilles Frozen Custard is the oldest frozen custard stand in Milwaukee, and as far as we can tell, the oldest in Wisconsin! We're surprised that it doesn't receive as much attention as some of its contenders, but those that know Gilles know just how great it is. With frozen custard, shakes, and malts that are out of this world, you can't go wrong with the spot that started it all!
Gilles Frozen Custard is located at 7515 W. Bluemound Rd., Milwaukee.
3. Leon's Frozen Custard
This world famous spot is the best of the best. Leon's will take any Milwaukeean back in time to summers lining up for a dish of the cold stuff. This neon stand is open year round and is still owned and operated by the original family. Nothing completes Milwaukee quite like Leon's.
Leon's Frozen Custard is located at 3131 S. 27th St., Milwaukee.
4. Northpoint Custard
This popular snack bar on Bradford Beach is swarmed every summer. They are closed during the colder seasons, but it's well worth the wait. On top of creamy custard, they have some of the best burgers in town, and what better combo is there for a beach day?
Northpoint Custard is located at 2272 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr., Milwaukee.
5. Oscar's Frozen Custard & Sandwiches
In West Allis, you'll find Oscar's. Not only do they serve up sweet treats by the carton, but their food menu is huge. This is a great dinner spot with an endless supply of custard!
Oscar's is located at 2362 S 108th St., West Allis
6. Fred's Drive-In
Fred's Drive-In is a small, unassuming shop near the Washington Heights neighborhood, but don't get confused by its size - their menu is huge! They serve up some of the best frozen custard, along with Chicago-style hot dogs, and much, much more.
Fred's Drive-In is located at 4726 W. Vliet St., Milwaukee.
7. Kitt's Frozen Custard
This hidden gem on the north side is the iconic frozen custard drive-in, Kitt's! Kitt's Frozen Custard has been around since 1950, and it still has a 50s vibe. Besides the famous custard, they have equally famous "jumbo" burgers.
Kitt's Frozen Custard is located at 7000 W. Capitol Dr., Milwaukee.
Have you been to the best frozen custard restaurants in Milwaukee? Which is your go-to? Are there other shops that you think belong on this list? Let us know in the comments!
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