Greendale’s malt shop, Ferch’s, has been a staple and favorite in the downtown business district since 1987. Young and old alike enjoy the creamery and soda fountain shop and its old-fashioned charm.

With the 1950s in mind, large portions of the establishment feature the signature Coca Cola red and chrome accents. Hanging on the walls are pictures of the original downtown Greendale and soda fountain shop. In the back and along the windows, jukeboxes allow patrons to select from rock and roll classics. 

“The atmosphere is very nostalgic,” said Jeff Ferchoff, one of the owners. “It reminds people of a simpler and sweeter time, of their childhoods.”

Guests have the option of dining in, by sitting along the long soda fountain bar.  One of the many helpful and courteous staff quickly provide a menu and the guests have a front row seat to the creation of their customized frozen concoction.

An order counter is also available for those eating on the run, choosing to snuggle into one of the wooden booths or enjoying a warm day on the patio in the courtyard adjacent to the restaurant.

The menu includes classic grill options like burgers, grilled cheese and chicken strips. There are also a plethora of soups, salads, wraps and other sandwiches to satiate all types of appetites.

“We use only the freshest of ingredients for our menu,” Ferchoff said. “Our bread is delivered every day and the custard is made from scratch daily as well.”

The real distinction for this restaurant is its marble top cold stone, which was added to the restaurant 12 years ago.  There are an extreme number of options guests have for creating their very own custard flavor. Patrons first chose between chocolate and vanilla frozen custard. Then over one or many of the 40 different flavors and 35 different mix-ins options are selected.  Once the custard, flavors and mix-ins have been chosen, a server swirls all of the ingredients on the frozen cold stone and piles the creation onto a cone or dish.

Beyond the charming atmosphere and delicious food, Ferch’s has a reputation for being an employer of choice for many students and adults alike. “The owners and management have created an amazing work environment,” explained Ashley Andersen, a Ferch’s employee.  “I started working here as a sophomore in high school and 5 years later, I’m still here because the work is fun, the staff is great and the customers are amazing.”

“For those interested in following our daily specials, we have a new monthly newsletter called The Scoop that can be signed up for on our website,” said Ferchoff. “We can also be found on Twitter and Facebook for those that want an immediate update on food and custard specials.”

Hours: Monday – Thursday, Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Handicap Accessible: Yes

Payments accepted: MasterCard, Discover, Visa, American Express, Debit Card, Cash

Products: Lunch, dinner and ice cream

General services: Dine-in and carry out

Menu link: http://www.ferchsmaltshoppe.com/index.htm

Parking: Large free lot

Private events: No

Cuisine: Classic American grill and frozen custard

Price level: $-$$

Reservations: No, but carry out orders can be called in advance

Atmosphere: Comfortable and family-friendly