Fred's Frozen Custard & Grill

Fred’s Frozen Custard & Grill, nestled in the heart of Milwaukee at 4726 W Vliet St, is a true local gem that masterfully blends the nostalgic charm of a classic American hamburger joint with the irresistible allure of indulgent frozen custard. Specializing in freshly made 1/3 pound burgers and creamy soft-serve custard, Fred’s invites you to savor some of the city’s most beloved comfort foods in a warm, welcoming neighborhood setting.

At Fred’s, the star of the menu shines brightly with their juicy, generously sized hamburgers. Whether you opt for the straightforward Hamburger at just $4.57 or elevate your meal with a double cheeseburger at $5.23, each bite bursts with savory, grilled-to-perfection flavor that will satisfy even the most devoted burger enthusiast. Not to be missed are their classic fish fry options—the crispy Battered Cod and Panko Butterfly Shrimp, each priced at $9.85—which deliver a delightful crunch and satisfying seafood flavor that complements the menu’s hearty variety.

Beyond the savory treats, Fred’s truly excels in its frozen custard offerings. As customers like Celeste Contreras enthusiastically share, their soft serve custard is nothing short of divine, making it an irresistible treat for those who crave a velvety, silky dessert. Paired with their famous malts, it makes for a nostalgic yet freshly crafted indulgence that's both refreshing and deeply satisfying.

The dining atmosphere at Fred’s embodies the essence of friendly neighborhood charm. The staff’s heartfelt dedication is evident from the moment you arrive, creating a genuinely warm and inviting environment where you feel like part of the family. Kayla Madlock’s testimonial paints a perfect portrait of this sense of community, highlighting how Fred’s team knows regular customers by name and goes above and beyond with attentive service, even carrying food out to cars during busy days.

Expect a lively atmosphere that buzzes with hungry patrons trading smiles as they wait in anticipation; it’s this steady flow of happy guests that Gina Gault points to as proof of Fred’s deliciously fresh and deeply satisfying food. Though you might wait a bit—sometimes up to an hour—the patience is rewarded with food that hits all the right notes of freshness, flavor, and portion size. Plus, the genuine kindness of the staff, as Blaze Smith and others note, elevates the entire experience to a star-worthy level.

Fred’s Frozen Custard & Grill is more than just a hamburger restaurant or ice cream shop—it’s a beloved Milwaukee institution where quality ingredients, hearty portions, and heartfelt service combine to create memorable meals. Whether you’re craving a perfectly grilled burger, a crispy hot dog, a golden order of fries with cheese curds, or a scoop of creamy custard that melts in your mouth, Fred’s has something to make you feel joy with every bite.