Wisconsin's Retro Diners and Drive-Ins
What do the names Frank, Katie, Monty, Rudy, Ardy, Ed and Gus have in common? In the 1950s, many patrons were on a first-name basis with the person behind the counter of their favorite local diner. Today, you can still find many of these friendly first-name spots with great food throughout Wisconsin. Read on to discover your new favorite diner to enjoy with friends.
Franks Diner - Kenosha
Franks Diner in Kenosha is a registered historical landmark and the oldest continuing lunch car diner in the U.S. It has even been featured on the Food Network, not only because of the amazing food (daily specials include classic American comfort food like meatloaf and tuna casserole) but also because of Frank’s motto, “Order what you want; eat what you get!” Pair your meal with a malt or soda float for the full diner experience.
Miss Katies Diner - Milwaukee
One of Wisconsin’s most famous 50’s diners is Miss Katies Diner, serving her famous rib sandwich (among many other mouth-watering treats) for over 75 years! Famous first names who have visited Miss Katies include Hillary, Michelle and the cast of the classic TV show, “Happy Days.” Stop in to taste for yourself and take a tasty trip back in time.
Delta Diner - Delta
A throwback to the 1940s East Coast diners that dotted the roadsides, Delta Diner sits within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest in Northern Wisconsin. Guy Fieri, host of "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," raved about the Norwegian pancakes with jalapeño peppers when he visited the diner for his show. Locals clamor for the buttermilk biscuits with red-eye gravy, a concoction made with ground espresso beans.
Monty’s Blue Plate Diner - Madison
Another big name in great diners is "Monty." Monty’s Blue Plate Diner is a local Madison favorite for its tasty food and neon decor. Monty’s is the quintessential neighborhood gathering spot and is unique among 50’s style diners in that the folks at Monty’s serve breakfast all day (the Sweet Potato Hash is a local favorite!) and offer a large vegan and gluten-free menu. And don’t forget the pie!
Rudy’s Drive-In - La Crosse
The name ‘Rudy’ is pretty popular in La Crosse and Sparta thanks to the roller skating carhops who take your order and deliver your meal at this local institution that’s been around for over 90 years. Also attracting big crowds at Rudy’s Drive-In is the addition of Cruise Nights where you can get a free root beer float just for showing up in your classic car or bike! Poodle skirts and leather letter jackets are not required.
Ardy & Ed’s Drive-In - Oshkosh
Skating carhops also “rock ‘n roll your order” at Ardy & Ed’s Drive-In in Oshkosh where old-fashioned soda fountain favorites have been served on the banks of beautiful Lake Winnebago since 1948. You can visit this blast from the past by boat or by car to enjoy a Jumbo Perch Basket with a side of Mini Mozzarella Logs for lunch before visiting the gift shop to pick up a nostalgic souvenir or T-shirt.
Gus’s Drive-In - East Troy
Home of the heavenly Heavy Chevy and Ford Burgers, Gus’s Drive-In is located in East Troy, close to Alpine Valley Resort and minutes from Lake Geneva. Gus offers frozen custard instead of ice cream with a different flavor of the day every day; Greek gyros and Italian meatballs add an international flair to the menu. Like Rudy, Gus honors the era when cars were king by sponsoring regular Cruise Nights.
So, whatever your name is, if you love Lucy, Elvis and the good old days, put on your saddle shoes and twist on over to one of Wisconsin’s 1950s-themed diners or drive-ins.
Discover more culinary delights by exploring Travel Wisconsin's Foodie Pass, where exclusive deals await at hidden gems and renowned eateries across the state.
