Open Since 1938, Gilles Frozen Custard Is Wisconsin’s Oldest Continuously Operating Fast Food Restaurant

A lot has changed since the 1930s, but not everything. For instance, Gilles Frozen Custard is still doling out fast food eats and sweet treats, just as it’s been doing since 1938. With more than 85 years under its belt, it takes the title of the state’s "oldest, continuously operating fast food restaurant." Come along with us for a little taste test and see why we think the best place for frozen custard Gilles Frozen Custard in Wisconsin!

Still going strong after more than 85 years in business...

...Gilles Frozen Custard is a Milwaukee landmark.

Dating back to 1938, it’s touted as the oldest frozen custard stand in Milwaukee.

It’s also one of the nation’s first frozen custard stands.

And, Gilles Frozen Custard has been in the same location since day one.

Throughout the decades, the building has undergone some changes.

However, the fare, particularly the custard, hasn’t wavered.

It’s as delicious as it was on day one and draws Wisconsin residents and visitors from far and wide.

Classically creamy, the famous custard can’t be beat.

Enjoy a simple scoop, just like you would for great Wisconsin ice cream, or a “fancy sundae.”

There are also custard floats, root beer floats, shakes, and malts.

Sweet treats make up just a portion of the menu, though.

Offering much more than the name implies...

... Gilles Frozen Custard serves up a slew of popular Wisconsin fast food eats.

The extensive menu features all the classics.

This includes burgers, homemade sloppy Joes, hot dogs, fries, and onion rings. Almost any kind of comfort food you'd find in any other Wisconsin restaurants you can enjoy here.

Local favorites, such as fried fish, brats...

... and the favorite, Wisconsin cheese curds, also have a place on the menu.

Drawing crowds and satisfying appetites since 1938, Gilles Frozen Custard isn’t just one of the state’s oldest restaurants...it’s also one of the most iconic.

If you were to do a search for “frozen custard in Wisconsin,” this spot would most certainly pop up at the top of the list!

For more information, visit the Gilles Frozen Custard website or the Gilles Frozen Custard Facebook page.

So, did you know Gilles was the state’s oldest fast food restaurant? Ever visited? If so, what do you think of the food? Would you agree that they serve up the best frozen custard in Wisconsin? Where do you go for frozen yogurt in Wisconsin? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

This isn’t the only eatery that’s withstood the test of time. Read about another of the state's oldest restaurants by reading Wisconsin's First Italian Restaurant Has Literally Been Around Forever.

And if you want more Wisconsin restaurants, make sure to sign up for our weekly dining newsletter. Every Thursday, a new eatery to try in the Badger State will be delivered straight to your email. Yum!

If you’d like to work off some of those delicious calories with a hike, you can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.

Still in the mood for more Badger State adventures? Take a look at this video: