J. Lauber's Ice Cream Parlor

For those in East Troy, Wisconsin, and the surrounding communities seeking an experience that transcends a simple ice cream cone, J. Lauber's Ice Cream Parlor offers a delightful journey into the past. This isn't just an ice cream shop; it's an authentic old-fashioned soda fountain, steeped in history and charmingly preserved, taking visitors back to an era of classic treats and genuine hospitality. Celebrating over 50 years of operation, and housed in a building originally constructed in 1919, J. Lauber's is a true local treasure, meticulously maintaining its vintage appeal while serving up beloved frozen desserts made with quality Wisconsin-made Cedar Crest ice cream.

From the moment you step through its doors, J. Lauber's immerses you in a nostalgic atmosphere. The commitment to an "old-fashioned soda fountain" experience is evident in every detail, from the classic ice cream presentations to the unique offerings like "phosphates" and a well-stocked candy counter. In a world of modern, fast-paced eateries, J. Lauber's provides a refreshing contrast, prioritizing a leisurely pace and a focus on tradition. The pride in their work, often highlighted by customers, ensures that each visit feels special and authentic.

J. Lauber's is more than just a place to satisfy a sweet craving; it's a piece of East Troy's living history. It's a place where generations have made memories, and where the simple pleasure of a perfectly crafted sundae or a unique soda fountain drink can transport you. For anyone in Wisconsin looking for a genuine, charming, and deliciously old-school experience, J. Lauber's Ice Cream Parlor truly embodies the spirit of a bygone era, making it a must-visit destination.

J. Lauber's Ice Cream Parlor is conveniently located at 2010 Church St, East Troy, WI 53120, USA. This central location places it within the heart of East Troy, making it easily accessible for residents of the village and those visiting the wider Walworth County and southeastern Wisconsin region. Church Street is a well-known artery in East Troy, contributing to the ease of finding this historic establishment.

The parlor's proximity to other local attractions further enhances its accessibility and appeal. It is situated near the East Troy Electric Railroad Museum, making it a popular stop for families and tourists enjoying a day out in the area. The idea of combining a ride on a vintage electric trolley with a visit to an old-fashioned ice cream parlor creates a full day of nostalgic entertainment, encouraging visitors to make a trip to East Troy a dedicated outing.

While J. Lauber's is described as a "small place" due to the age of its building (originally built in 1919), its location in a charming village setting typically means street parking is available nearby, offering convenient access for patrons. The straightforward approach to the parlor ensures that a visit is hassle-free, allowing customers to quickly immerse themselves in its unique ambiance and enjoy its offerings. Its integration into the historic fabric of East Troy makes it a natural and welcoming destination for locals and curious visitors alike.

Services Offered:

• Classic ice cream sundaes with a variety of toppings (e.g., Hot Fudge Sundae, Turtle, Dusty Road, Black & White, Roundhouse, Fruit Salad).
• Milkshakes and malteds made with Cedar Crest ice cream, available in various flavors and sizes (Regular, Junior, Heavy).
• Classic soda fountain drinks, including "phosphates" (e.g., Green River, Coca-Cola phosphate) and ice cream sodas.
• Root Beer Floats and "Cows" (ice cream, flavor extract, and seltzer).
• A selection of ice cream flavors from Cedar Crest, a Wisconsin-based creamery.
• A dedicated candy counter with unique offerings.
• Dine-in service in a vintage parlor setting with booths and tables.
• Take-out options for all menu items.

Features / Highlights:

• Authentic Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain Experience: J. Lauber's isn't just themed; it's a genuinely preserved 1919 building that functions as a classic soda fountain. This authenticity provides a unique and immersive step back in time, offering a nostalgic experience rarely found today. From the decor to the service style, everything contributes to a truly retro atmosphere.
• Pride in Work and Great Service: Customers consistently praise the "great service" and note that the "owner/proprietor still shows pride in his work." This dedication to quality and customer satisfaction creates a welcoming and enjoyable environment, making every visit a pleasant one. Even employees express love for their job, coworkers, and boss, which often translates to a positive customer experience.
• Cedar Crest Ice Cream: The parlor serves ice cream from Cedar Crest, a respected Wisconsin-based creamery. While they may offer a focused selection of flavors, the quality of the ice cream itself is consistently good, providing a solid foundation for their classic sundaes, shakes, and malts.
• Classic Ice Cream Presentations: J. Lauber's excels in delivering traditional ice cream presentations. This focus on classic preparations, rather than overwhelming variety, ensures that each sundae, shake, or malt is crafted with care and adheres to the nostalgic soda fountain style.
• Unique "Phosphate" Drinks: A true highlight for those seeking an authentic soda fountain experience are the "phosphates." These classic carbonated beverages, mixed with a tangy phosphoric acid, offer a unique taste sensation from the past, with popular recommendations including Green River and Coca-Cola phosphates.
• Nostalgic Candy Counter: The presence of a "candy counter with some unique offerings" adds another layer to the retro charm. This allows visitors to pick up old-fashioned candies, further enhancing the feeling of stepping back into a simpler time.
• Historical Ambiance: The building itself, dating back to 1919, is part of the experience. The "old things that are on the shelves" and the general decor contribute to a captivating historical ambiance that appeals to those who appreciate vintage charm and history.
• Long-Standing Local Legacy: J. Lauber's has been "officially open for 50 years," signifying its deep roots and enduring presence in the East Troy community. This longevity speaks to its consistent quality and local appeal.

Contact Information:

Address: 2010 Church St, East Troy, WI 53120, USA

Phone: (262) 642-3679

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

J. Lauber's Ice Cream Parlor is exceptionally suitable for locals in East Troy, Wisconsin, and the surrounding communities, serving as much more than just a place to get ice cream. It's a beloved community institution that offers a unique blend of nostalgia, quality, and local charm.

Firstly, for Wisconsin residents, J. Lauber's provides a genuine "step back in time" experience that is increasingly rare to find. Its authentic old-fashioned soda fountain setting, housed in a building from 1919, offers a tangible connection to the past. This appeals to locals who appreciate history and seek a break from modern, often impersonal, commercial establishments. It’s a place where generations of families can share stories and create new memories in a truly unique environment.

Secondly, while the menu might focus on classic presentations rather than an overwhelming number of ice cream flavors, the quality of the Cedar Crest ice cream and the expertly crafted sundaes, shakes, and malts are consistently praised. The ability to enjoy unique offerings like "phosphates" further distinguishes it, providing a taste of soda fountain history that many locals may have only heard about. This dedication to classic, well-executed treats ensures a satisfying experience for traditionalists and those curious about vintage flavors.

Furthermore, its status as a local landmark, celebrating over 50 years of operation, makes it a point of pride for East Troy. Locals value businesses that have stood the test of time and become integral parts of their community. The consistent good service and the evident pride of the owner and employees in their work foster a strong sense of connection and loyalty among patrons. Even with its smaller size, the welcoming atmosphere encourages repeat visits.

Finally, its convenient location in East Troy, often near other local attractions like the Electric Railroad Museum, makes it a natural gathering spot for family outings or a quick treat after exploring the town. For all these reasons, J. Lauber's Ice Cream Parlor is not just an ice cream shop; it’s a treasured local gem that enriches the cultural and social fabric of East Troy, Wisconsin, making it a perfectly suitable and highly recommended destination for anyone in the area.

J. Lauber's Ice Cream Parlor

2010 Church St, East Troy, WI 53120, USA