10 Wisconsin Spots Still Serving Up Classic Sloppy Joes
Wisconsin knows comfort food, and nothing beats a messy, delicious sloppy joe sandwich. From bustling Milwaukee diners to cozy Madison pubs, the Badger State serves up some seriously satisfying versions of this American classic.
Whether you want yours with a side of frozen custard or paired with cheese curds, these local spots have perfected the art of the sloppy joe.
1. Sloppy Joe’s Saloon & Spoon (Hubertus)
Talk about truth in advertising! This Hubertus hotspot literally has “Sloppy Joe” in the name, so you know they take their sandwich game seriously.
The kitchen here doesn’t mess around with fancy ingredients or complicated recipes. They stick to the basics that made this sandwich famous nationwide.
Locals drive from neighboring towns just to grab one of these beauties, especially on weekends when the place buzzes with hungry families.
2. The Old Fashioned (Madison)
Madison’s crown jewel of comfort food doesn’t just excel at cheese curds and brandy cocktails. Their sloppy joe brings back childhood memories with every single bite you take.
The meat mixture gets slow-cooked until it reaches that perfect consistency between too dry and too soupy. Fresh buns hold everything together without falling apart in your hands.
Capitol workers and university students alike line up during lunch rush, proving this dish appeals to every age group imaginable.
3. Jordan’s Big 10 Pub (Madison)
College town energy meets hearty portions at this Madison favorite where students fuel up before big games. The sloppy joe here could feed a linebacker with room to spare!
Game day crowds pack this place, but the kitchen never skimps on quality despite the rush. Each sandwich gets the same care and attention.
Pair yours with their famous cheese fries for the ultimate Wisconsin comfort food experience that’ll keep you satisfied for hours.
4. Gilles Frozen Custard – Bluemound Location (Milwaukee Area)
Who says you can’t have dessert with dinner? Gilles proves frozen custard and sloppy joes make the perfect pair in suburban Milwaukee dining.
The Bluemound location has been serving families for decades, perfecting both their creamy custard and savory sandwiches. Kids especially love this winning combination of flavors.
Summer evenings bring long lines of customers eager to enjoy both specialties on the outdoor patio under twinkling lights.
5. Gilles Frozen Custard – Fond Du Lac Location
The Fond du Lac outpost of this beloved Wisconsin chain brings the same winning formula to a smaller city setting with hometown charm.
Local high school students consider this their unofficial hangout spot, especially after football games when everyone craves comfort food. The sloppy joe hits every time.
Family recipes passed down through generations ensure consistency between locations, but each spot adds its own community character and friendly service.
6. Oscar’s Frozen Custard & Sandwiches (West Allis & Franklin)
Two locations mean double the chances to grab one of Oscar’s legendary sloppy joes alongside their signature frozen treats throughout the Milwaukee metro area.
The West Allis spot attracts nostalgic adults who grew up eating here, while Franklin draws newer families discovering this hidden gem for themselves.
Both kitchens use identical recipes, so you’ll get the same great taste whether you visit the original or the newer location.
7. Kiltie Drive-In (Seasonal Drive-In, Southeastern WI)
Summer magic happens at this seasonal southeastern Wisconsin treasure where car hops deliver sloppy joes right to your window with old-school charm.
The retro atmosphere transports diners back to simpler times when drive-ins ruled American dining culture. Classic cars often fill the parking lot during peak season.
Weather-dependent hours make each visit feel special, knowing this experience only lasts through the warmer months of the year.
8. Rhapsodies Frozen Custard (Oshkosh)
Oshkosh residents know good food, and Rhapsodies delivers on both the custard and sandwich fronts with equal skill and dedication to quality ingredients.
The cozy interior welcomes families year-round, while outdoor seating provides perfect people-watching opportunities during warmer weather. Everyone feels at home here immediately.
College students from nearby UW-Oshkosh consider this their unofficial study break destination, especially during finals week when comfort food becomes absolutely essential.
9. Saz’s State House (Milwaukee)
This Milwaukee institution brings barbecue expertise to their sloppy joe creation, adding subtle smoky notes that set it apart from typical versions found elsewhere.
The spacious dining room accommodates large groups celebrating everything from birthdays to business meetings. Everyone leaves completely satisfied with their meal choice.
Catering options mean you can bring these amazing sloppy joes to your next event, spreading the Saz’s experience beyond their restaurant walls.
10. Martino’s (Milwaukee)
Italian heritage meets American comfort food at this Milwaukee staple where the sloppy joe gets a subtle Mediterranean twist that surprises first-time visitors.
Three generations of the same family have run this kitchen, ensuring recipes stay consistent while allowing for small improvements over the decades.
Neighborhood regulars treat this place like their second home, often bringing out-of-town guests to experience authentic Milwaukee dining culture at its finest.
