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Milwaukeeans don’t play about their favorite frozen custard spot. For most, the best stand is either the one closest to them, or where they hold the fondest memories. As a recent transplant, I can throw that sentimentality out the window. I swung by five popular spots – Kopp’s, Leon’s, Gilles, Oscar’s, Culver’s – and ordered a single-scoop dish of vanilla, no toppings.
It’s time to pick your Milwaukee favorites for the year!
I judged on flavor, texture and meltiness. The results? Culver’s ranked last, perhaps unsurprisingly – a reliable choice but lacking the oomph of the others. The heavyweight Kopp’s came in fourth, marked by a remarkable thickness but marred by a weaker flavor with a lingering aftertaste.
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Leon’s pulled third with a smooth, creamy custard that was also quick to melt. Oscar’s in second matched Kopp’s in thickness, but with a richer vanilla flavor. But the oldest was the greatest. Gilles (est. 1938) excelled on all levels: luscious, creamy, cold and irresistible. And, as it turns out – I swear, the fix was not in – Gilles is closest to my house.
