First time here. Came with a friend. Passed by a few times and always wanted to stop -- today was the day. It's a small, cute-looking drive-in. The place looks well cared for. Got greeted by a nice young woman. I ordered the root beer float, and he got the Black Cow. They use Cedar Crest Ice Cream, which I think is high quality. The float came in a glass mug and looked amazing -- and it tasted excellent. To me, the Black Cow looked a bit watery (overmixed), but he enjoyed it. It was rainy, and we got the only picnic table that was covered. There were plenty of other picnic tables on the grassy areas across the parking lot. Don't know much about the food, but would definitely come back for the root beer float. read more

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I had an appointment in Waukesha today and spotted John's Drive-In on my way there, and decided to stop for a quick lunch on my way back. It was great to see it was a hot dog place instead of a burger joint; I ordered a hot dog with ketchup and relish and a side of onion rings, but no beverage as I had one in the car. Anyway, the hot dog was ok, but the meat itself was kind of soft and spongy, not to my liking. The onion rings, described to me by the order taker as fantastic, were, in reality, disgusting. They tasted like old, rancid oil and consisted mostly of a thick batter with the thinnest actual onion slice. I ate two small rings and tossed the rest. Just gross. I really wish I could have had an excellent dog and rings, because when I indulge in a fast food meal, that's what I love, and few places offer hot dogs anymore. read more

If you're in Waukesha and looking for a casual spot with charm, John's Rootbeer is worth checking out. It's outdoor seating only, which makes it a great place to enjoy a warm day--just don't bring your pup, since dogs aren't allowed. The food was genuinely good--classic drive-in style with solid burgers and fries, and the root beer definitely lives up to the name. It's a cute little place with that laid-back, throwback vibe. Perfect for a quick stop or an easy lunch outside. read more

One of the cutest drive ins! We stopped for a quick bite after work. We each enjoyed a hot dog & shared the ultimate fries. The "orange drink" brought me right back to childhood! Our food came out quickly & was thoroughly enjoyed. Looking forward to another visit! read more

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Extra Great service! Rootbeer was just like I remembered from years ago! Pulled pork sandwich was delicious Fries were so good and so were the mushrooms Everyone agreed we will go back! read more

John's Drive-In - Pulled pork remembered to take a pic after the first bite! - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

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Love the drive up vibe (we actually biked- it's not far off the new Berlin connector trail). We ordered a rootbeer frosty and a rootbeer shake- both were great! Perfect post bike treat! In case you are curious- a rootbeer frosty has slightly less of a rootbeer flavor than a shake does but both were delish! Staff were friendly. Lots of picnic tables to eat at if you want to eat/drink there. There are also bathrooms in the back which is nice! read more

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My boyfriend and I came for their root beer; unfortunately the machine was broken but they can't help that. We got food and within minutes we both had intense stomach aches and TMI - the runs. While we were there we got drinks but instead we expected fountain drinks for 2.14 not cans and when asked for ice they didn't have it - only "chilled mugs." I really don't understand why they don't allow dogs on the premise since it is all outside and really no one around but that's something for them to decide. The food is kind of pricey (7.50 for a chicken sandwich with bacon. Sandwiches were EXTREMELY small more like sliders that are 5 dollars. Cheese for the fries are plastic tasting with no flavor. The fries were okay but super salty. Workers also seemed super judgmental when ordering. read more

John's Drive-In - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

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Great old A&W rootbeer stand long ago gone independent. All the food we had was great. The place is clean, comfortable and safe. Staff was busting their humps to get thi gs done and it shows. I would think they could be open later during the summer but they should know their business better than. read more

A staple in Waukesha! The root beer is absolutely delicious. And the hot dogs always hit the spot too. My one and only gripe is that I can't get the root beer anywhere else! read more

I love a good southern Wisconsin fish-fry with potato pancakes and rye bread. This is why I made the trek to John's Drive-in. Fish fry is only available in September through March. The cod fish and potato pancakes were delicious, even though a bit greasy. The fish fry also came with a lovely tartar sauce, fresh rye bread with butter, and coleslaw. The fish fry gets an A-. We also tried a plain hot dog, fries and a root beer. The fries are skinny like McDonalds. They were good, but I wished they'd been fried just a bit longer. The hot dog didn't taste good to me or my husband. :( The clear winner of John's Drive-in is their ROOTBEER. It is sooooo good!! Luckily, they also sell it in quarts and gallons. read more

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The food is excellent. We had chicken tenders and the fish fry baskets. The chicken was hot and fresh. The fish was tender and flaky if slightly overcooked (not too bad). The chicken came by itself but the fish came with rye bread and a choice of steak fries, French fries or potato pancakes. We also had root beer and a root beer float. The root beer is good. It tastes like more like birch beer than the typical root beer and it's only lightly fizzy. The root beer float was a hit. The staff is friendly and very attentive and they work quickly. It is a cute stand with lots of parking and open air seating. I remember it having more trees around, but I think that might be because the season is turning and I've always come in the summer. It is kind of retro. It's a definite come back again spot. I have come here almost every visit since I was a kid. read more

Sad to See a Local Favorite Go Downhill John's Drive-In used to be the spot--affordable, satisfying, and full of that classic charm. It was one of those places you looked forward to stopping at, whether you were craving a hot dog, a cold root beer, or just some good old-fashioned comfort food. Unfortunately, that's not the case anymore. Over the past few years or so, it feels like everything's changed. Prices have gone way up, but instead of better quality, you get smaller portions and longer wait times. The hot dogs aren't what they used to be, and the root beer just doesn't hit the same anymore. It's like you're paying more and getting less in every sense. The saddest part is that you can tell the place still has potential. The food could be good again. The people working there are doing their best, but it's hard to ignore the corners being cut--whether that's due to new management, rising costs, or something else behind the scenes. I still want to love John's like I used to, but at this point, I can't help but feel disappointed every time I go. I hope they turn things around, because this place used to mean something to the community--and right now, it's just not the same. read more

Old fashioned hot dog with a root beer, just great! Walk to the window and eat in your car or the many outside tables. Don't miss this!

My wife and I have been thinking about going here for some time, and today was the day. We had to look up where it was on a map, and it was much closer than we thought. The appearance of John's reminded us of the old A&W root beer stand that used to be in our hometown when we were growing up. I literally felt like I was in another time. I have expected to see my friends pull up on their bicycles and order a root beer. I had the pulled pork sandwich. My wife had the Sloppy Joe. We shared an order of fries with cheese, ranch dressing, and bacon bits. The food was wonderful and the root beer was some of the best I've had. It was all made just a little nicer due to the nostalgia. There is no dining room, just picnic tables, which I considered a plus. Would we go there again? Absolutely. Can't wait. read more

Stopped in last Friday for lunch. For two of us it was a first but not my sister who is a long time fan. It was pretty busy but generally everyone kept a safe distant. The food took a bit but not too long. The root beer was excellent as were the fries - they were hot, crisp and skinny. Perfect in my book. Not a surprise that the root beer was great - certainly reminded me of A&W root beer (as does their logo). The fried cheese curds were just OK as was the brat which was overcooked and bland. Next time I might try their sloppy joe. The hot dog with the works got a big thumbs up. Since they don't yet have their picnic tables set up we brought our own chairs and ate by our car in the sunny parking lot. I definitely will give them another try and I will order a large fries. read more

John's Drive-In - Outside - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

They're like the old A&W root beer stands and drive-ins! It's such a fun place to stop with friends or family for a delicious bite to eat and an ice cold root beer! I normally don't like hotdogs but you have to pair up these two items! Fun hanging out casually with others enjoying the outdoors or, didn't feel like getting dressed today, take your family to enjoy a bite to eat in the car! It's just a really nice place where you can relax and create your own atmosphere and fun memories. I don't know why I'm unable to choose but I like it for the food and service. read more

Good drive In food and prices were not bad. Unfortunately I have not been able to go to often, but has been good when I've gone.

This has been bookmarked for a while and since I was going to be shopping in the area I finally stopped by to check them out. This is an old school drive in with no car service so you have to walk up for your food. The place is old looking with a big lot and outdoor seating on the nicer days, they are open year round by the way. The sign says Johns Root Beer but I'm not a big soda drinker so I would just get a sandwich. Looking over the menu I was surprised to see not a singer burger on the menu, this must be the first drive in with absolutely no burgers on the menu. Now I guess I'm getting a chili/nacho cheese hot dog, as I though at the last minute I added a root beer because that's what they are famous for so I got a small one to try. The small root beer is really small which is ok because I don't regularly drink soda and I just wanted a taste. The root beer comes with no ice and not super cold, my first thought was it's nice and creamy and my second thought was it's kind of flat for soda I thought. The chili nacho cheese dog looked kind of pathetic was my first thought but let's dig in. The bun was very fresh/soft, the nacho cheese was thick and creamy and the chili was ok and kind of minimal compared to the cheese and the onions were very fresh. The hot dog itself seemed smaller than like a Portions and low quality, definitely not an all beef with a good casing. My first thought was this was like cheap hot dogs that you would serve at a children's back yard party who don't know any better. This is not a place you really go to for the food and more of a nostalgic thing to do more than anything else I think. read more

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Root beer is a must!!!! We buy gallons for people in Oconomowoc like every other week. Hot dogs hit the spot every time So friendly quick and delicious Their pulled pork is great with the pickles on the top Fries best place to buy hot fresh fries Italians and mushrooms are delicious Fish dinners are also good Nice place to hang out and eat in a hot day Also the car shows are fun read more

John's Drive-In - SpongeBob popsicles Jon's outdoor diningroom - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

Service was polite and quick. I almost made the mistake of ordering a small root beer and was recommended getting the medium. Food came out timely and hot. French fries were right out of the fryer. Loved the chili dog! Freshly steamed bun with just the right amount of chili. The root beer was delicious and creamy! Definitely get the mug. read more

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never tried it before i think lebron has tried it before and said it was okay but his taste is different from mine but ive never tried john's-drive in read more

tl;dr A Waukesha tradition since 1937, and open year round with fast, friendly service. They serve your standard steamed and soft hotdog, but, what makes it taste so good are the toppings. You can't go wrong with any option, plus, top it off with a Frosty and your golden. Now I'll be honest, the style of hotdog John's serves is not usually my thing. I prefer a firm dog, even better if it has a snap when you bite the skin. But, John's nails the toppings. Besides the light and flavorful chili, you have the option of nacho, sloppy, or combine those for sloppy nacho, chili nacho, nacho bacon, slaw, kraut, and more. For sides, you can't go wrong with nacho cheese fries. The fries are simply seasoned, but perfectly cooked. Or, go for the onion rings, mushrooms, or the new(ish) cheese curds that are surprisingly some of the best I've had. They serve ice cold, old fashioned, insanely creamy root beer, that is served in glass mugs (no ice, as should be) or by the gallon. My only complaint with the root beer is that there is very little carbonation, which would really amp up the mouthfeel. Seating is outdoors only, but, some seating is under the overhang, and there are jungle gym cars for the kids. During the winter, they add a weather shield of sorts to the front to block out the elements when you order. Overall, this is THE nostalgic, feel good, family outing, sweet spot in Waukesha. If this was any other type of restaurant besides a drive-in, this place would be a three stars. Just like Barry stated in his review, I love this place for what it is intended for... a Drive-in! Oh, note, for this being a place where you only eat outside... dogs are not allowed on the premises. They're definitely old fashioned on this subject. No no ifs, ands, or buts about it. If you bring yours, be prepared for the verbal attacks. read more

John's Drive-In - Menu board - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

We love John's Drive-In!! The root beer is so so creamy and refreshing, by far the best root beer I've had and best when served in a mug. Their hotdogs are boiled to perfection and always hit the spot, especially with "the works". Their French fries are thin, always hot, and fresh. I recently tried the BBQ pulled pork sandwich and will definitely be ordering it again. This is a great place to stop for a mug of RB and quick bite! read more

John's Drive-In - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

What a delightful little drive in that took me back to a simpler time in life! Great food, amazing prices, friendly staff, clean picnic tables...what more could you ask for? The pulled pork sandwich, fries and vanilla shake hit the spot! read more

John's Drive-In - Yum! Great idea on a hot summer day! - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

This place is a Classic! Definitely get your Root beer in an cold mug. The food is typical for a fast food joint. My favorite is the Root Beer Frosty! read more

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Only real downside is that they don't allow dogs outside of your vehicle. But their root beer is the best!!!

They have the best hot dogs with sloppy joes I have ever tasted. I would highly recommend this to anyone that loves Chili Dog also. Great service. read more

We stopped in for some Root beers and a float. Service was quick. with good tasting Root beer. Wasn't too hungry at the time but I hear they can make a mean hot dog and onion rings are delicious. They have plenty of seating at picnic tables. the kids have a small train and a car to climb on. I like the nostalgia of the place it has charm and I don't mind the taste of Old fashioned root beer but the bathrooms could use a renovation as its last update might have been in the 50's. 60's 70's? Hell I don't know? It could be brighter inside and help people hit the target lol. read more

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Stoped her for drive inn style to eat at picnic tables! It was a great quick spot. Fried mushrooms and fried cheese curds were good! Can watch the cook through window. Very well maintained- root beer was not cold enough. read more

John's Drive-In - John's root beer by the gallon - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

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The best hotdogs and cold frosted mug root beer in the U S of A. I would not lie, this is yelp

My dad loved this place when he was a kid, and now I bring my kids here every time I visit home. Some 30 years ago, I overheard a manager reveal the secret to the root beer: Twice the sugar, half the carbonation. I believe this recipe was found to be different enough from A&W that John's was allowed to continue business as is following litigation decades ago. The orange decorum is indeed reminiscent of A&W, but the root beer is way better. You'll notice the difference right away. John's and the concept of the root beer stand in general is a throwback to a bygone era, a slice of Americana you're not likely to find in many other places today. Don't miss the opportunity to visit when you're near. And please, drink the root beer from a glass mug, as nature intended. read more

John's Drive-In - My daughter Lili and me at John's in September of 2015. - Fast Food Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

One of the better chili dogs around and I like those thin little fries. The root beer is excellent and it's all outdoors so about as Covid friendly as there is. read more

Delicious food and wonderful root beer. Service always polite. This is our go to for traditional drive in food!

This drive in is small in size, but big on fast food taste! The quaint location, and old-fashioned memories make everything taste so much better. This nostalgic kind of place reminds you of the old A&W and Dog & Suds drive-ins. They serve hot dogs, chili dogs, burgers, fries, onion rings, shakes, etc. All of the old favorites. I decided on the burger and fries, and it did not disappoint. Plenty of parking, and delicious food guaranteed. Due to the coronavirus, this restaurant's hours are modified to close at 8 PM. read more

I really don't like to give restaurants a low score but I really don't understand what other reviewers see here. The vibe is very nostalgic and we definitely liked that. The menu has quite a few choices so we both chose the hot dog (with our preferred condiments) and my husband also had a brat. For sides we opted for the onion rings and the mushrooms. We each had a root beer, one regular, one diet. The hot dogs are nothing to write home about. They are quite small and don't have a lot of flavor. Is it because they are a combo of beef and pork instead of the more traditional all beef hot dogs? My husband said the brat was "ok"...hardly a ringing endorsement from a man that loves a brat. The onion rings and the mushrooms were both good and the root beer was also good. I guess if you are coming here for the root beer, perhaps John's would get a higher rating but once we factored in the hot dogs, it just doesn't hold up. We spent over $30 and left feeling rather meh. read more

Favorite local business for carry out or outdoor eating. Great stop for a mug of root beer and a hot dog. Also love that they have fresh popped popcorn and fried mushrooms. Service is usually quick, friendly and efficient, though there may be a line or short wait during busy times. read more

Love their hot dogs and root beer. Other good food also, Fun place to stop for a quick bite.

You come here for the atmosphere of a drive-in especially during the summer. Great for families or teenagers of all ages! The creamy root beer is served in mugs like they should be (no ice). Mugs only come in small or quart sizes. Large only in to go cups. The French fries are some of the best around. The oil must be cleaned regularly as the fries have good flavor and never greasy. The fries are the thin cut. And my favorite is the chili dogs or chili cheese dogs. Well maintained and very clean. I love the place for what it is intended for.... Drive-in! read more

Let me start by saying anyone that knows me knows I know hotdogs. Born and raised in Chicago. I also travel for work. These are some best hotdogs I have had in very long time. I got the sloppy Joe hotdog , fries and root beer. Everything was supper yummy and cheap to. This is a hidden gem for sure. Don't walk m, run and get yourself hotdog today, don't forget your friends and coworkers. read more

Best glizzys and root beer around nuff said. Apparently I have to write more cause Yelp is making me. You know what it is, one of best home town restaurants in Waukesha up there with the likes of Jimmy's grottos home of the world famous ponza and Italian sausage ( made fresh every Thursday as rumor has it, also ask for the spaghetti ponza if your brave enough). You get it, go grab and glizzy and a root beer today!! read more