Milwaukee is the world’s frozen custard capital, so it should come as no surprise that the city is filled with excellent places to enjoy this sweet, creamy treat. It was all the way back in 1933, at the World’s Fair in Chicago, that frozen custard really took off. Its popularity at the World’s Fair led to the dessert spreading across the Midwest. Before long, Milwaukee had the highest number of frozen custard shops of any city in the world.
Join us as we share a few of our favorite spots to indulge in frozen custard, from iconic MKE establishments that have been serving the city’s sweet tooth for decades to young businesses delighting customers with their twists on classic frozen custard.
While you are with us, be sure to check out our Milwaukee Guided Tours and Experiences.
Gilles Frozen Custard
Gilles Frozen Custard is a beloved institution in Milwaukee, having served the community since 1938. As the oldest custard stand in the city, Gilles is renowned for its rich history and delicious offerings. Located on the west side of Milwaukee, Gilles has maintained its original charm while expanding its menu to include a variety of hot food items alongside their famous custard.
The signature item, the Gillieburger, is a unique take on a sloppy joe, and their menu also features rotating monthly sandwich specials. Those with a sweet tooth should not miss the Those Things, a custard cookie sandwich dipped in a crunchy chocolate shell. Gilles also offers custard pies and cakes, perfect for special occasions.
Despite the limited indoor seating, Gilles’ cozy outdoor space and nostalgic atmosphere make it a favorite for many. Whether you’re enjoying an Oreo shake or a cone of the flavor of the day, a visit to Gilles is a delightful step back in time.
Address: 7515 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53213
Website: Gilles Frozen Custard
MooSa’s
Located right by Bradford Beach along the scenic shores of Lake Michigan, MooSa’s is a delightful modern take on the traditional custard stand. This lakefront gem offers a variety of custard flavors and other treats that are perfect for a day at the beach. Patrons can enjoy unique custard shakes in fun flavors like peanut butter and cotton candy, as well as classic cones and sundaes.
In addition to frozen custard, MooSa’s menu includes an array of savory options such as burgers, including a popular veggie burger, chicken wings, and cheese curds. The signature MooSa Burger is a standout, featuring custom blended beef on a Sciortino’s roll, topped with mozzarella, American cheese, tomatoes, onions, pickles, and MooSa sauce. The welcoming and fun atmosphere makes MooSa’s a popular spot for families and friends looking to enjoy some of Milwaukee’s best frozen custard while taking in the beautiful lakefront views.
Address: 2272 N Lincoln Memorial Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53211
Website: MooSa’s Custard
Kopp’s Frozen Custard
Kopp’s Frozen Custard, established in 1950, is a Milwaukee landmark known for its high-quality frozen custard and jumbo burgers. Kopp’s was the first custard stand to introduce the Flavor of the Day, a concept that has become popular among custard stands in Milwaukee. Each day, two unique flavors are featured alongside classic vanilla and chocolate, available in cups or cones.
The extensive menu also includes sundaes, shakes, and their famous jumbo burgers, which are a must-try for visitors. The three Kopp’s locations—Glendale, Greenfield, and Brookfield—make it convenient for anyone in the Milwaukee area to enjoy this local favorite.
Addresses:
- Glendale: 5373 N. Port Washington Rd, Milwaukee, WI 53217
- Greenfield: 7631 W. Layton Ave, Greenfield, WI 53220
- Brookfield: 18880 W. Bluemound Rd, Brookfield, WI 53045
Website: Kopp’s Frozen Custard
Leon’s Frozen Custard
Opened in 1942, Leon’s Frozen Custard is a Milwaukee staple known for its traditional approach to frozen custard. Located at 27th and Oklahoma, the stand remains largely unchanged since the 1950s, maintaining its focus on quality custard without diversifying into extensive food options.
Leon’s offers four custard flavors daily: vanilla, chocolate, butter pecan, and a special rotating flavor. Known for its classic, no-frills flavors like maple nut and raspberry, Leon’s has maintained its reputation as a purist’s custard stand.
Address: 3131 S 27th St, Milwaukee, WI 53215
Website: Leon’s Frozen Custard
Oscar’s Frozen Custard
Oscar’s Frozen Custard has been a beloved part of Milwaukee’s dessert scene for over 30 years. Known for its ample indoor seating, Oscar’s is a great year-round destination. The custard stand features unique flavors such as New York Cherry, which blends maraschino cherries into vanilla custard, and Oscar’s Delight, a mix of vanilla custard, pecans, and chocolate flakes. Their homemade waffle cones, served warm, are a highlight.
Address: 2362 S 108th St, Milwaukee, WI 53227
Website: Oscar’s Frozen Custard
AJ Bombers
AJ Bombers, renowned for winning the best burger on the Travel Channel’s “Food Wars,” offers more than just award-winning burgers. They also serve traditional Milwaukee-style frozen custard with a unique twist: alcoholic frozen custard shakes. These adult shakes are a hit, with different flavors featured weekly. For a complete experience, try their Milwaukee Burger, famous Wisconsin cheese curds, and finish with a custard treat.
Address: 1247 N Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Website: AJ Bombers
We hope we’ve given you plenty of inspiring options for eating delicious frozen custard in MKE. Be sure to check out our Milwaukee Tours before you go. If you have any questions, please get in touch.