Solly's Grille Receives 'America's Classics' James Beard Award

GLENDALE, WI — The James Beard Foundation selected Solly's Grille, a Glendale butter burger joint, as one of the recipients of its 2022 America's Classics award category.

The awards, started in 1998 and given to about 100 restaurants since, are meant to honor locally-owned restaurants that reflect the character of their community — Spots that are beloved for their quality food and timeless appeal, the James Beard Foundation said in a news release Wednesday.

Five other spots across the country received one of the 2022 America's Classics awards. Solly's Grille received recognition for its butter burger, a well-known sandwich that's served all across the state these days.

"While there may be claims as to who invented this rich, creamy, and meaty sandwich that pays tribute to Wisconsin’s dairy heritage, it’s Solly’s Grille that put it on the map," the James Beard Foundation said.

The burger is made with ground sirloin, stewed onions, and of course farm-fresh butter from Wisconsin. Founded by Kenneth "Solly" Salmon, Solly's Grille uses up vast quantities of butter to keep the burgers churning out, over 130 pounds per week, according to the James Beard Foundation.

Solly's Grille, located at 4629 Port Washington Road, is now owned by Glenn Fieber. He told The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel the award is like "the World Series, the Super Bowl in the restaurant world."