history

The History of Kroll’s West

Kroll’s West has been a family-owned restaurant and Green Bay institution for over 80 years, known for its charcoal-grilled Butter Burgers, classic Wisconsin comfort food, and welcoming atmosphere. Located directly across from Lambeau Field, we are just a short walk from the Brown County Arena, the Resch Center, and the Packers Hall of Fame, making us a favorite stop for locals, visitors, and Packers fans alike. Kroll’s West isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a nationally and internationally recognized landmark.

We invite you to experience the rich tradition and legendary hospitality that have made Kroll’s West a must-visit destination for generations. Over the years, countless guests—including sports legends, entertainers, and public figures—have dined with us, adding to the restaurant’s storied history.

A Green Bay Culinary Tradition

One of the key reasons for Kroll’s West’s success is our charcoal grilling method, which gives our burgers and sandwiches their signature smoky flavor. We go through truckloads of charcoal to ensure that every bite is cooked to perfection, exactly the way you like it.

Our menu offers something for everyone, featuring local favorites and American classics. Whether you’re craving a Butter Burger, broasted chicken, homemade chili, or a Friday Fish Fry, Kroll’s West is the place to enjoy authentic Wisconsin dining in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

  • Dine-In & Carryout Available

  • Family-Friendly Dining – A welcoming space for all ages, including plenty of kid-friendly options.

Generations of Excellence

Kroll’s West has been delighting diners for three generations. The story began in 1931, when Harry and Caroline Kroll started serving meals at a family-run hotel in Green Bay. Their food quickly became so popular that they opened the first official Kroll’s restaurant in 1936, located at 1658 Main Street. It was there that the now-legendary Kroll’s Hamburger was first served, quickly becoming a local favorite.

Just before World War II, the restaurant moved to a basement location beneath the Labor Temple Auditorium, proving that customers would follow Kroll’s food no matter where it was served. In 1974, Kroll’s West relocated to its current home on South Ridge Road, directly across from Lambeau Field—solidifying its place as a Green Bay landmark.

Today, the third generation of the family, Bobbie Van Der Perren Wier and her husband Mike, continue the Kroll’s tradition, ensuring that every customer experiences the same quality, service, and flavor that made us famous.

A Restaurant with a Legendary Guest List

Over the years, Kroll’s West has welcomed some of the biggest names in sports, entertainment, and politics, many of whom have left their mark on our Signature Wall. Some of our most well-known guests include:

🏈 NFL Legends: Brett Favre, Bart Starr, Reggie White, John Madden, Ray Nitschke, Jim Taylor, and more.
🎤 Public Figures & Entertainers: Al Gore, Lex Luger, Dick Schaap, George Karl, Herb Kohl, and Rick Majerus.

From Packers Hall of Famers to world-famous personalities, Kroll’s West has been a go-to spot for the biggest names in football and beyond.

A Tradition That Lives On

For decades, Kroll’s West has been the go-to destination for Packers fans, Green Bay locals, and visitors from around the world. Whether you're celebrating a big win, reliving memories, or making new ones, we invite you to come in and see why Kroll’s West continues to be a place where great food, great company, and Green Bay history come together.

Come experience the tradition, the flavor, and the legacy of Kroll’s West for yourself.