Know the North Shore: Solly's Legendary Butter Burger Home

The History: From Coffee Shop to Burger Joint

Solly's Grille has been serving up Milwaukee tradition since 1936, when Kenneth "Solly" Salmon first opened "Solly's Coffee Shop." This humble beginning launched what would become one of Wisconsin's most beloved culinary institutions. The restaurant has remained under continuous family ownership for over 83 years, with the Fieber family now at the helm—Glenn Fieber officially renamed it "Solly's Grille" in 1993.

Perhaps the most charming chapter in Solly's story is its physical journey. Originally located in Milwaukee, the restaurant moved in 1971 to 4629 N Port Washington Rd in Glendale, Wis. When it came time for the final relocation, the owners didn't just move the business—they literally moved the entire building by truck down the street to its current location. This extraordinary effort to preserve the original charm speaks volumes about the family's dedication to maintaining Solly's authentic character.

The Menu: Butter Burger Royalty

The Star: The Original Butter Burger

Solly's claims the title as the birthplace of the butter burger as we know it today. This isn't just any burger—it's a 1/4 lb (or 1/3 lb for a double) of 100% sirloin beef, delivered fresh daily from a local butcher. The magic happens when the patty is steamed in butter on the flattop grill, then crowned with a generous dollop—we're talking 2-3 tablespoons—of real Wisconsin creamery butter as a condiment. The result? A burger literally "dripping, almost drowning in butter" that creates a pool on your plate and makes every bite unforgettably rich and juicy.

Beyond the Butter Burger

• Breakfast Favorites: The "Big Steer" (tenderloin, eggs, hash browns) and the "Cheesehead" omelet packed with Wisconsin cheeses

• Award Winners: The "Double Double Bacon Cheeseburger" (Channel 6 news burger contest winner) and the "Original Cheesehead Burger" born from the Packers' 1997 Super Bowl win

• Wisconsin Classics: Old Wisconsin Fish Fry with hand-breaded Alaskan Cod, locally made bratwurst on pretzel buns

• Sweet Treats: Door County cherry shakes and malts served the old-fashioned way in steel cans, plus homemade cherry pies

Local Sides and Specialties

• "Milwaukee's Best" golden crispy crinkle cut fries

• Wisconsin cheese curds (locally made, of course)

• "Best" homemade chili with 25 natural ingredients

• New England Clam Chowder (Fridays only)

The Decor: Classic Americana Charm

Solly's maintains the authentic feel of a classic American diner, complete with the original charm that comes from being housed in a building that's been lovingly preserved since the 1930s. The atmosphere is unpretentious and welcoming—exactly what you'd expect from a family-run establishment that's been serving the community for generations. The hands-on approach is evident, with owner Glenn Fieber sometimes manning the grill himself, creating that genuine, neighborhood feel that's become increasingly rare.

Famous Stories and Recognition

National Acclaim

The pinnacle of Solly's national recognition came in 2022 when it received the James Beard America's Classic Award—one of the most prestigious honors in American dining. This award specifically celebrates restaurants that are "beloved" with "timeless appeal" and reflect the true character of their communities. For a family-run diner that started as a humble coffee shop, this recognition places Solly's in the same category as America's most treasured culinary institutions.

George Motz, widely regarded as America's foremost hamburger historian and author of "Hamburger America," has specifically highlighted Solly's as one of the last "real" butter burgers. This endorsement from the country's leading burger authority underscores Solly's authenticity in an era of imitation and commercialization.

The Butter Burger Debate

While some trace butter-cooked burgers back to Charlie Nagreen in 1885, Solly's is widely recognized as the creator of the modern butter burger style—the specific method of steaming the patty in butter and then adding a lavish dollop as a condiment. Hamburger historian George Motz has highlighted Solly's as one of the last "real" butter burgers, cementing its authenticity.

Media Fame

Solly's has gained worldwide media recognition through features on Food Network and the Travel Channel, making it a destination for food enthusiasts from around the globe. Solly's has earned consistent praise from the country's top food publications and critics:

• Thrillist and USA Today have both rated Solly's as having one of the top burgers in the country

• Jane & Michael Stern, the legendary food writing duo known for discovering America's best roadside eats, have recommended Solly's alongside 14 other prominent food critics

• The widespread critical consensus speaks to the restaurant's consistent quality and authentic approach to the butter burger

Things to Do Nearby

Sprecher Brewery Tour

Just a short drive away, take a tour of Milwaukee's beloved Sprecher Brewery, famous for their craft sodas and beers. The tour includes tastings and a look at their brewing process—the perfect complement to your Solly's experience.

Bayshore Town Center

Located nearby in Glendale, this open-air shopping and entertainment district offers dining, shopping, and seasonal events.

Kletzsch Park

Beautiful riverside park perfect for a post-burger walk along the Milwaukee River, with scenic trails and picnic areas.

North Shore Beaches

Head east to enjoy Lake Michigan's beautiful North Shore beaches, including Bradford Beach and Atwater Beach.

Local Tips

• Know the Locals: Solly's is "known by all locals"—if you need directions, any North Shore resident can point you in the right direction

• Come Hungry: The butter burger is not for the faint of heart—it's an indulgent experience that's worth every calorie

• Old School Experience: This is classic "old school Milwaukee" dining at its finest—no frills, just authentic, delicious food

• Family Tradition: Many families have been coming here for generations, making it a true community gathering place

Solly's Grille isn't just a restaurant—it's a North Shore institution where tradition, quality, and community converge. Whether you're a longtime local or a curious visitor, this is where you'll experience the true taste of Wisconsin's culinary heritage, one butter-drenched bite at a time.