12 Places To Find Sloppy Joes On Menus Across Wisconsin
Wisconsin might be famous for cheese, but locals know our sloppy joes are just as worthy of fame. These messy, meaty sandwiches show up on menus from family diners to frozen custard stands across the Badger State.
Ready for a road trip that’ll have you reaching for extra napkins? Here’s where to find the tastiest sloppy joes Wisconsin has to offer.
1. Sloppy Joe’s Saloon & Spoon
When a restaurant puts ‘Sloppy Joe’ right in its name, you know they mean business!
Folks drive from miles around for their namesake sandwich that features perfectly seasoned ground beef swimming in tangy-sweet sauce. The kitchen even sprinkles this magical meat mixture atop other menu items for those who can’t get enough of that signature flavor.
2. The Old Fashioned
Perched proudly on Capitol Square, a beloved tavern serves Wisconsin traditions with a side of nostalgia. House sloppy joe isn’t just a lunch special, it’s earned a permanent place on the everyday sandwich menu.
Made with locally sourced beef and secret spices, the messy masterpiece pairs perfectly with famous cheese curds.
3. Jordan’s Big 10 Pub
Tuesday is the magic day at this campus-area sports haven!
College students and locals alike flock here for the homemade sloppy joe special that’s become legendary among Badger faithful. While the daily lunch specials rotate throughout the week, regulars mark their calendars specifically for this saucy Tuesday tradition.
4. Gilles Frozen Custard (Bluemound)
How about some history with that sandwich? Famous Gillieburger isn’t your average joe, it’s a secret-recipe sloppy joe delighting customers since the 1950s.
Historic custard stand might be known for sweet treats, but savvy locals know savoury sandwiches deserve equal billing.
5. Gilles Frozen Custard (Sister Location)
Though miles from its Milwaukee sibling, this custard haven keeps the family tradition alive!
The Gilleburger here features the same beloved sloppy joe recipe that’s been passed down through generations. Fond du Lac residents consider themselves lucky to have this meaty treasure in town without making the drive to Brew City.
6. Oscar’s Frozen Custard & Sandwiches
Why wait for a special day when sloppy joes are always on the menu?
Oscar’s doesn’t play games with their hearty version that pairs perfectly with a side of their famous crinkle-cut fries. While the Waukesha location remains closed after an unfortunate fire, sloppy joe fans can still get their fix at the West Allis and Franklin spots.
7. The Drive-Thru
Small in size but mighty in flavour describes a neighbourhood gem. Famous Sloppy Joe, capital F, capital S, capital J, has reached local legend status among Milwaukee sandwich aficionados.
Served on a pillowy bun with just enough sauce to make it messy but not impossible to eat, it’s worth every napkin you’ll need.
8. Kiltie Drive-In
Summer in Wisconsin isn’t complete without a trip to a seasonal drive-in. Kiltie Burger brings the heat as an explicitly spicy take on a traditional sloppy joe.
Car-hop service adds nostalgic charm to a summertime favourite, but always check operating months before making the drive because winter hibernation is real in Wisconsin.
9. Rhapsodies Frozen Custard
Music lovers will appreciate the clever naming of the “Sloppy Joe Cocker” sandwich!
This punny creation doesn’t just rely on its name to impress – the hearty portion and perfect spice blend keep customers coming back. Unlike some places where sloppy joes rotate on and off the menu, this rock star sandwich enjoys permanent billing.
10. Saz’s State House
Can’t decide between traditional or modern? Why not both? Saz covers all bases with a classic sloppy joe alongside a plant-based Beyond Sloppy Joe winning over even dedicated meat-eaters.
Milwaukee institution knows comfort food, and dual offerings prove they’re keeping up with changing tastes without forgetting roots.
11. Martino’s
Old-school vibes meet comfort food perfection at a no-frills gem.
Tucked among hot dogs and Italian beef on the Specialty Sandwiches board, BBQ, code for sloppy joe, might not get top billing, but regulars know it’s a hidden treasure. Family-owned for decades, the recipe hasn’t changed because perfection needs no updates.
12. Bert’s Bar & Grill
Timing is everything when hunting for Bert’s famous sloppy joe!
This neighborhood tavern runs their special just once weekly, typically mid-week when you need it most. Smart locals check the day’s board or call ahead to confirm it’s sloppy joe day before making the trip. The limited availability only makes it more coveted!
