Milwaukee and St. Louis: The Epicenters of Frozen Custard Delight.
When it comes to frozen custard, two cities stand out as the ultimate destinations for this creamy, rich dessert: Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and St. Louis, Missouri.
These cities have not only embraced frozen custard as a local specialty but have also helped shape its cultural legacy across the United States. But what makes Milwaukee and St. Louis the epicenters of frozen custard?
Milwaukee is often credited as the birthplace of frozen custard. In 1913, a German immigrant named George and his brother-in-law opened the first frozen custard stand in Milwaukee, using a machine that churned the mixture slowly to create the smooth, creamy texture that defines custard.
Today, Milwaukee is home to some of the most famous custard spots in the country, including Kopp’s Frozen Custard, which has been serving its signature custard since 1950.
Known for its rotating seasonal flavors and classic custard concoctions, Kopp’s is a local treasure that draws visitors from all over. Milwaukee’s long-standing connection to frozen custard has made it a hub for custard enthusiasts, ensuring the city’s place in the dessert’s history.
St. Louis has its own storied relationship with frozen custard, thanks in part to the iconic Ted Drewes Frozen Custard. Opened in 1929, Ted Drewes revolutionized the custard experience with its “concrete” – a frozen custard treat so thick that it could be served upside down without spilling.
Ted Drewes’ commitment to quality and consistency has made St. Louis a major custard destination, with locals and tourists alike flocking to enjoy the rich, indulgent flavors. The city’s role in perfecting the custard experience has earned it a place among the best frozen custard cities in the U.S.
Both Milwaukee and St. Louis are passionate about their frozen custard, and the popularity of these desserts speaks to the broader culture of community and tradition in both cities. Frozen custard stands are often family-owned, passed down through generations, creating a sense of local pride.