Kopps is a popular fast food restaurant chain known for its burgers, frozen custard, and classic car-hop service. With over 80 locations across Wisconsin, Kopps has become an iconic part of the state’s culture. But is Kopps truly unique to Wisconsin, or can this beloved burger joint be found elsewhere?
The History of Kopps
Kopps was founded in Milwaukee in 1939 by Ewald Kopp. He opened the first Kopps restaurant as a small custard stand with no indoor seating. In the 1940s, Kopps introduced burgers and carhop service to its offerings. This allowed customers to order food from their vehicles and have it delivered right to their car window.
Kopps soon became popular for its juicy burgers made from fresh, never frozen beef and its rich frozen custard made with eggs and cream. By the 1950s, Kopps had grown to over 10 locations in the Milwaukee area. The chain continued expanding across Wisconsin over the next few decades. Today, there are over 80 Kopps locations throughout the state, primarily in the Milwaukee and Madison areas.
Popularity Within Wisconsin
It’s no secret that Kopps is wildly popular across Wisconsin. It has attained an almost cult-like following within the state. Wisconsinites have a deep love and loyalty for Kopps burgers and custard.
In fact, Kopps routinely tops lists ranking the most popular restaurant chains or burger joints in Wisconsin. For example, a 2019 Consumer Picks survey found that Kopps was the most popular fast food chain among Wisconsin residents, beating out national chains like McDonald’s and Culver’s.
Kopps also often appears on lists like “Wisconsin’s Best Burgers” or “The Most Iconic Wisconsin Foods.” Food critics praise the freshness and flavor of Kopps burgers. The chain’s custard frequently gets recognized as some of the best frozen custard around.
On review sites like Yelp, Kopps locations across Wisconsin have rave reviews, with most averaging between 4 and 5 stars out of 5. Wisconsinites clearly adore Kopps and remain loyal customers.
Reasons for Popularity in Wisconsin
There are several factors that contribute to Kopps’ popularity and strong Wisconsin roots:
- It originated in Milwaukee and has an 80+ year legacy in the state
- There are locations statewide, providing easy access for Wisconsin residents
- Its burgers and custard are high-quality and consistently delicious
- Kopps has retained its classic drive-in model, emphasizing nostalgia and tradition
- The chain partners with local Wisconsin farms and purveyors for fresh ingredients
- Kopps has an “only in Wisconsin” appeal that residents take pride in
In many ways, Kopps has become ingrained in Wisconsin culture. For locals, visiting Kopps is more than just grabbing a burger – it’s an experience and reminds them of home.
Availability Outside of Wisconsin
While Kopps is undoubtedly an iconic Wisconsin establishment, it does have a small presence outside of the state. Here is an overview of where else you can find Kopps restaurants:
Illinois
There are currently 8 Kopps locations in the northern Illinois towns of Gurnee, Vernon Hills, Crystal Lake, and Algonquin. These sit in the Chicago metropolitan area near the Wisconsin-Illinois border. The first Illinois Kopps opened in Gurnee in 2010, more than 70 years after the first Kopps opened in Wisconsin.
Minnesota
Kopps expanded into Minnesota more recently. There are 2 locations in the Twin Cities metro area in Roseville and Maple Grove. These opened in 2016 and 2017, marking the first Kopps in Minnesota.
Florida
Since 2018, there has been 1 Kopps location in Florida. It is situated in Bonita Springs, along the state’s Gulf Coast. This remains the only Kopps restaurant in the Florida market.
Total Locations Outside Wisconsin
In total, there are currently just 11 Kopps restaurants outside of Wisconsin, compared to over 80 locations within the state. Here is a summary:
| State | Number of Locations |
| Illinois | 8 |
| Minnesota | 2 |
| Florida | 1 |
So while Kopps has branched out a bit beyond Wisconsin, its presence is still overwhelmingly concentrated there. The chain’s growth in other states has been cautious and limited compared to its saturating presence across Wisconsin.
Plans for Further Expansion?
Kopps management has indicated plans to continue expanding, primarily in markets adjacent to Wisconsin. However, the chain has emphasized that Wisconsin remains its “bread and butter.”
In recent years, Kopps has focused its expansion efforts in northern Illinois and the Minneapolis metro area. Moving forward, the chain may target other nearby markets like Iowa, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, northern Indiana, and even Ohio.
But massive nationwide growth does not seem to be the goal. Kopps wants to remain true to its Wisconsin roots even while slowly venturing into new territory. The chain’s deliberate small-scale growth allows it to preserve quality control and its local connection to Wisconsin providers.
Can You Get Kopps Shipped?
While Kopps has limited out-of-state locations, fans don’t have to travel to Wisconsin to enjoy its burgers and custard. The chain offers shipping within the continental U.S. via its “Share the Love” program.
Through this service, you can order Kopps burgers, custard, and other menu items online and have them delivered in refrigerated packaging nationwide. This allows you to send the gift of Kopps to family, friends, or even yourself!
Kopps ships its burgers uncooked but its custard fully frozen. So you can cook up the burgers at home and enjoy the signature custard just as it comes. Shipping costs vary based on location and order size.
Conclusion
While Kopps restaurants can be found outside Wisconsin, the chain remains overwhelmingly concentrated in its home state. Over 90% of Kopps locations are in Wisconsin, where the brand enjoys immense popularity and a cult-like following.
Expansion to neighboring states has been slow and strategic. The company prioritizes preserving its Wisconsin roots and high quality. Nationwide shipping allows fans to enjoy Kopps from afar, but visiting the restaurants in Wisconsin provides that quintessential experience.
So while not 100% exclusive to Wisconsin, Kopps offerings and community connection make it a distinctly Wisconsin establishment. The chain’s limited presence elsewhere shows its priorities lie with serving its home state first and foremost.