By Kate Vollrath

For one hundred years, Gessert’s has been sweetening the days of locals and visitors alike.  Those of us who were raised on the sugar and cream of the iconic ice cream parlor remember hoisting ourselves onto the bright green stools every summer as we devoured the lovingly arranged sundaes in the antique glassware. Stories were shared and rituals were passed on to us over malts and house specialties, such as Dinosaur Freckles and the Dusty Road.

When I was young, Yvonne, the owner at the time, was the sundae queen behind the counter. The place wasn’t set up for grab and go then, rather you sat on one of the stools (but never swiveled, because that was impolite and would deteriorate them) and perused the menu as you would at a fine dining establishment. The counter wasn’t very large, so when you went, it was with a small group, the type of outing you planned with your closest people. A date at Gessert’s was meaningful.

There was the relief of walking in on a scorching summer afternoon and meeting the air conditioning, knowing you would soon be eating something frozen. I remember my childhood friends and I watching Yvonne prepare the sundaes, taking in her methodical assembly. She would begin by reaching her arm into the ice cream case, a case so deep we swore she could fit inside. Then the toppings, whipped cream, and a cherry delicately placed on top. There was a peaceful rhythm to how she carefully arranged each element in the dish.

She was serious about her craft and through the glasses on her face you could see her kind eyes paying close attention to each and every item served. The anticipation of receiving a sundae so thoughtfully created made it taste even sweeter. She taught us how to hold the special dishes and always gave us tiny cups of water, because ice cream makes you thirsty. Thanks to Yvonne, I know the role malt powder plays in transforming ice cream into something even more decadent and still choose malts over milkshakes anywhere I go.

Through her devotion to the ice cream dining experience, we were taught etiquette and the importance of savoring summer with loved ones. My most vivid memory while sitting at that counter was trying a chocolate soda for the first time. I don’t remember how old I was, but I do remember my father insisted it would be the summer for me to discover them. My grandparents shared their love of Gessert’s chocolate sodas with him at a young age, and now it was my turn to see what all the fuss was about.

As a devoted Dusty Road patron (chocolate ice cream topped with marshmallow cream and malt powder), I was incredibly curious about what carbonated chocolate would taste like. Because we were at Gessert’s, I knew this was the type of treat to sip slowly. It wasn’t easy for me to do that though, because my first taste was transformative and made me want to inhale the whole thing down within seconds. That day changed my life and I’ve searched far and wide to find a chocolate soda as good ever since. Finding them on menus at all is a rare occasion.

While the ice cream was divine, I think most would agree the experiences were memorable due to the feeling of life pausing for a moment as you gazed up at the Coca Cola posters above the counter while listening to big band oldies play on the a.m. radio. As you watched Yvonne make masterpieces with such care, you were invited to enjoy it more deeply. When you are given the opportunity to savor, the memories really stick with you, lasting long after you finish your ice cream. Sitting at that counter as a child, you tasted what would one day be the very thing you returned to – the unlocking of nostalgia, a visit to summers past.

While Yvonne no longer greets you behind the counter, the new owners have done an outstanding job of continuing a legacy that locals and visitors come back for. The preciousness of the place remains with the light up sign out front beckoning you inside. Once you enter, you’ll be greeted by the aroma of house made waffle cones, and you’ll likely hear 1920s tunes playing. Towards the back of the main room, you’ll notice booths surrounded by black and white photography that documents the historical significance of the establishment.

In the very back room, you can still see a tribute to the counter and stools that we were taught to sit politely on as kids. Today, when you glance at the menu, you’ll notice they still offer the chocolate sodas. If you’ve never had one, I recommend you try it. Whether you go for an ice cream soda, a malt, or a sundae, it is worth the additional time to enjoy it within the walls of Gessert’s. Don’t sip or eat your treat too fast though. Really savor it. If you let it linger on your palate, chances are it will linger in your heart too. This is the Elkhart Lake way. May it continue for at least one hundred years more. 

Meet the Author

Kate Vollrath

Kate Vollrath was born and raised in Elkhart Lake. After several years of working and adventuring in Anchorage, Alaska and a year studying in Italy, she has returned to her favorite freshwater shoreline. Wisconsin will always be home. The incredible local culture, extraordinary community, and summer Sundays on the water are what keep her rooted and returning no matter where life takes her.

Ryder Cup is finally here and if you are staying in Elkhart Lake or just looking for something fun to do while you aren’t checking out all of the action at the course, we’ve got you covered! Check out the list of things to do in Elkhart Lake while you are here visiting our beautiful county.

1. Dine Around

Hungry? Don’t worry, Elkhart has a variety of pubs, cafés, casual and finer dining options. Take in the view of the lake on the patio at the Concourse Lounge and Restaurant, or stop in the historic Tavern at Siebkens Resort for a quick bite to eat. Fill your belly with a BBQ baby back ribs at Three Guys and a Grill or the grilled hanger steak and skinny fries Paddock Club. Find a full list of Elkhart Lake restaurants in the link below. We strongly recommend making reservations ahead of time if possible.
Elkhart Lake Restaurants Here

2. Live Music at The Osthoff’s Elk Room

After a long day on the course, there’s no better place to unwind than The Elk Room. Enjoy the live music in the evenings by Jim Ohlschmidt on Friday, Riley Haupt on Saturday, and Luke Abler on Sunday. The Elk Room offers a cozy atmosphere with a beautiful fireplace and an expansive patio for cocktails and appetizers.
The Osthoff Resort | 101 Osthoff Ave, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020

3. Oktoberfest at The Tiki Bar

What gets any better than beer, brats, and pretzels when you are in Wisconsin? Head over to The Tiki Bar that offers a breathtaking view of the lake while you dance along to music by The Polka Masters. Music starts at 5pm and the bar opens at 11am. The Cottonwood Social, an indoor dining option at The Shore Club, will also be open for this special weekend from 5-9 pm. The Cottonwood is offering their full menu along with special fall features like a rigatoni with pumpkin cream sauce and a peppered grilled tenderloin.
Tiki Bar at The Shore Club Wisconsin | 276 Victorian Village Dr, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020

4. SwitchGear Brewing’s Oktoberfest

Prost, it’s Oktoberfest season! Make a stop at SwitchGear Brewing Company for giant pretzels, German style sausages, local brews, and music by the Waltzmeisters. The first keg of SwitchGear’s Oktoberfest will be tapped at 11am and the live music will start at 2pm. Join in a game of Hammerschlagen and enjoy the local company in the beer garden.
SwitchGear Brewing Co. | 44D Gottfried Street, Elkhart Lake, WI

5. Farmers & Artisans Market

Take a piece of Wisconsin home with you at Elkhart Lake’s Farmers & Artisans Market in the Village Square. This is a Saturday morning tradition in for locals and visitors. Pick up fresh seasonal vegetables, flowers, cheeses, local arts and specialty products from many different local vendors. Every item sold is produced locally in the state of Wisconsin by the person right behind the stand.
Elkhart Lake Village Square | 80 Square St, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020

6. Sunset Cruise at Road America

Get an up-close look at Road America’s legendary race circuit from your own car or motorcycle. This activity is not high-speed but is a leisurely, low-speed, 3-lap experience of the sweeping, rolling 4-mile track. It is the perfect opportunity for drivers, families, and friends of all ages to experience, first-hand, one of the country’s premier road-racing circuits. Price: $20 per vehicle/bike.
Road America | N7390 WI-67, Plymouth, WI 53073

7. Disc Golf Challenge at Road America

Love to disc golf? Get signed up for the 3 Disc Challenge at Road America this Saturday. Your $45 entry will get you a Putter, Mid, and Driver that you will use to shoot your best score using only those three discs. There will be prizes for top finishers as well as randomly drawn prizes for participants, so not only will you get the three discs, opportunity to play Road America DGC, but you’ll also have potential to win a variety of prizes. This is a fun flex start event (start your round anytime between 9a-3p) open to any and all players. Bonus for this event — There will be a beverage cart out on the course to help quench your thirst, so bring some cash and prepare for a good time.
Road America | N7390 WI-67, Plymouth, WI 53073

8. Golf at Quit Qui Oc Golf Course

You may be here to watch golf, but don’t forget that you have time to golf yourself. One of Sheboygan County’s special course gems for golf enthusiasts is found right here in Elkhart Lake. Located in the beautiful Northern Kettle Moraine, Quit Qui Oc Golf Club hosts thousands of golfers each year on its 27-hole course spread over 250 acres. Family-owned-and-operated for over 50 years, golfers of all skill levels enjoy friendly customer service. Book your tee time today at Quit Quit Oc Golf Course.
Quit Qui Oc Golf Course | 500 Quit Qui Oc Lane, Elkhart Lake, WI 54220

It’s Friday night in Wisconsin and you know what that means – FISH FRY! So, grab a frosty mug of beer or a classic old fashioned, a basket of cheese curds, and one great Friday Night Fish Fry.

Check out these six places to snag one of these fantastic fish fry’s on a Friday night in Elkhart Lake:

All Seasons Family Restaurant – This delicious fish fry is sure to fill your belly with generous portions of Perch, Haddock, and Cod, along with homemade coleslaw, rye bread, choice of potato, and soup or salad with every meal.
PS – If you ask your waitress, they may even throw in a scoop of ice cream for dessert! 

Lake Street Café – Looking for light, yet perfectly crispy breading? You’ll find it here. Lake Street offers panko crusted Sauger (Perch when available) and Pike. Start with the famous Seared Yellow Fin Tuna or add a cup of Lobster Bisque for a combination of deliciousness.

Otto’s Restaurant – Located in The Osthoff Resort, Otto’s serves up a classic Friday night fish fry beer battered, breaded or baked! The beer battered Perch featuring New Glarus’ Spotted Cow — what can get more Wisconsin than that! Don’t forget to start with a classic old fashioned with their homemade bitters.

Quit Qui Oc Golf Course & Restaurant – Choose from multiple options of seafood here! From the classic Perch dinner to beer battered Cod and lightly breaded Bluegill. If you’re really hungry, you’ll want to try the all-you-can-eat option for ultimate satisfaction. Don’t forget about the ‘From the Pond’ entrees like Sartori Montamore Crusted Walleye or the Baked Atlantic Salmon. All fish plates come with your choice of potato, fresh seasonal vegetables, a garden-fresh salad and homemade soup.

Route 67 Saloon – You’ll find more than just the usual Perch dinner here. Try the mouthwatering beer battered Cod and beer battered Bluegill, too! Of course, all of these fish dishes come will the classic French fries, coleslaw and creamy tarter sauce. Check out the line up of local taps including brews from SwitchGear Brewing Co. and 3 Sheeps!

Siebkens Stop-Inn Tavern – Beer Battered Walleye – YUM! Add a side of crispy fries, creamy coleslaw and top it all off with a delicious piece of Siebkens famous chocolate cake!