These Wisconsin Food Sayings That Outsiders Can’t Decipher
Wisconsin has its own language when it comes to food, and if you’re not from here, you might feel like you need a translator.
The Badger State is full of unique dishes, quirky sayings, and long-standing traditions that make its food culture unlike anywhere else.
From butter-burgers to Friday fish fries, Wisconsin’s way of talking about food says as much about community as it does about flavor.
Friday Fish Fry
Every Friday in Wisconsin feels like a mini holiday because of the fish fry tradition. Churches, bars, supper clubs, and restaurants all serve up heaping plates of fried fish, coleslaw, rye bread, and potato pancakes. It’s not just dinner — it’s a weekly ritual that brings entire communities together.
I grew up thinking everyone did this until I moved out of state and people looked at me like I had three heads. The fish is usually cod or perch, battered and fried until golden and crispy. Some places offer all-you-can-eat specials that keep locals coming back for seconds and thirds.
Outsiders often wonder why Fridays are so special here. The tradition has deep roots in Catholic practices, but now everyone joins in, regardless of religion, because good food brings people together.
Butter-Burger
Slapping a pat of butter on top of a burger might sound crazy, but in Wisconsin, it’s pure genius. A butter-burger features a thick, juicy beef patty topped with a generous dollop of butter that melts into every bite. Some places butter the bun instead, creating a rich, toasty flavor that’s absolutely unforgettable.
Culver’s made this creation famous, but you’ll find variations at diners and restaurants throughout the state. The butter adds a creamy richness that elevates the entire burger experience. It’s indulgent, it’s delicious, and it’s 100% Wisconsin.
When I tell friends from other states about butter-burgers, they usually cringe at first. But after one bite, they’re complete converts. The combination of savory beef and sweet, melted butter is something you just have to taste to understand.
Cheese Curds With Ketchup
Deep-fried cheese curds are Wisconsin’s golden treasure — squeaky, gooey, and absolutely addictive. But here’s where things get controversial: many locals dip them in ketchup. Outsiders usually gasp at this combination, insisting that ranch or marinara is the only acceptable choice.
I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first too. But the tangy sweetness of ketchup actually complements the rich, salty cheese perfectly. It’s one of those things you have to try before you judge, even if it sounds weird.
You’ll find cheese curds at every county fair, sports bar, and roadside tavern in Wisconsin. They’re best eaten fresh and hot, when the cheese inside is still melty and the breading is crispy. Whether you choose ketchup, ranch, or nothing at all, these little nuggets of joy are a must-try.
You Betcha
Wisconsinites have a reputation for being friendly, and “you betcha” is proof of that. This cheerful phrase is the Midwestern way of saying “absolutely” or “of course.” You’ll hear it in grocery stores, gas stations, and anywhere locals are having a conversation.
It’s more than just words — it’s a whole vibe. When someone says “you betcha,” they’re being warm, agreeable, and genuinely nice. It’s the verbal equivalent of a friendly wave or a hearty handshake.
Outsiders sometimes find it amusing or overly polite, but for Wisconsinites, it’s just natural. I catch myself saying it all the time, even when I’m traveling. It’s one of those phrases that marks you as a true Wisconsinite, no matter where you go. Once it’s in your vocabulary, it’s there for life.
Booyah Stew
Booyah is more than just a stew — it’s a full-blown community event. This hearty chicken or beef stew is cooked in enormous outdoor kettles, often for hours, and served at festivals, church gatherings, and fundraisers across Wisconsin. It’s thick, flavorful, and packed with vegetables, making it the ultimate comfort food.
The name might sound funny, but the tradition is serious. Families and volunteers gather to chop ingredients, stir the massive pots, and share stories while the stew simmers. It’s a social experience as much as a meal.
Outsiders are often baffled by the name and the scale of the operation. But once they taste a steaming bowl of booyah, they understand why Wisconsinites go all out for it. It’s food that warms the belly and brings people together in the best way possible.
Cannibal Sandwich
Now this one really freaks people out. A cannibal sandwich is raw ground beef served on rye bread and topped with raw onions. It’s a traditional Wisconsin holiday treat, especially around Christmas, and yes, people actually eat it and love it.
The name alone is enough to scare outsiders, but the idea of eating raw meat makes them downright horrified. Health officials warn against it every year, but many Wisconsin families keep the tradition alive anyway. It’s been passed down through generations, especially among German and Polish communities.
I’ll be honest — I’ve never been brave enough to try it myself. But I respect the tradition and the people who swear by it. If you ever see it at a Wisconsin holiday party, just know it’s a cultural thing, not a dare.
Kringle
Kringle is a flaky, buttery Danish pastry filled with fruit, nuts, or cream cheese, and it’s a Wisconsin bakery treasure. Racine is the kringle capital of the world, and locals take this pastry very seriously. It’s oval-shaped, layered with delicate dough, and topped with sweet icing.
Outsiders often mispronounce it or confuse it with a pretzel, which is a big no-no here. The correct pronunciation is “KRING-gul,” and it’s worth learning because this pastry is absolutely divine. You can find flavors like raspberry, pecan, cherry, and almond.
I always bring a kringle when I visit friends out of state, and it never fails to impress. It’s the kind of treat that makes people ask, “Where has this been all my life?” Once you’ve had a real Wisconsin kringle, store-bought pastries just don’t compare.
Supper Club
When Wisconsinites talk about going to a supper club, they’re not referring to a fancy members-only restaurant. Supper clubs are casual, old-school dining establishments known for their steaks, seafood, and classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned. They’re usually located in small towns or along scenic lakes.
The experience is just as important as the food. You start with a relish tray — pickles, carrots, olives, and cheese — while you sip your drink. Then comes a hearty meal, often with a salad bar and homemade bread. It’s all about taking your time and enjoying the evening.
Outsiders sometimes expect something more formal based on the name, but supper clubs are relaxed and welcoming. I love the nostalgic atmosphere and the way they make dining feel like a special occasion, even on a regular weeknight.
Squeaky Cheese
Fresh cheese curds have a unique texture that makes them squeak against your teeth when you bite into them. Locals call them “squeaky cheese,” and if they don’t squeak, they’re not fresh enough. It’s a quality test that every Wisconsinite knows by heart.
The squeak comes from the protein strands in the cheese, which are still elastic when the curds are fresh. As they age, the squeak fades, so you want to eat them as soon as possible. Some people even refuse to eat curds that don’t squeak.
Outsiders are often startled by the texture and the sound, but for Wisconsinites, it’s a badge of freshness. I’ve seen people at farmers markets squeeze and test curds before buying them. It might seem picky, but when you grow up with the best cheese in the country, you develop standards.