When you think about classic American treats, especially those found along historic routes, Ted Drewes frozen custard often comes to mind. This place, truly a landmark in St. Louis, has been serving up its famous creamy dessert for nearly a century, offering a sweet escape that brings folks back time and time again. It's more than just a stop for something cool and tasty; it's a spot where sweet treats and family traditions, very much, go hand in hand, creating memories for generations of visitors.

For many, a visit to St. Louis feels incomplete without a trip to this beloved custard stand, a place that has, in a way, become a symbol of the city itself. You see, Ted Drewes frozen custard has gained a reputation not just for its deliciousness but also for its special atmosphere, drawing in people from all over. It's that kind of spot where you just know you're getting something truly special, something that has stood the test of time.

This article will explore what makes Ted Drewes frozen custard such a cherished institution, from its interesting beginnings with a champion tennis player to the secrets behind its incredibly thick concretes. We will, in fact, look at the menu, the popular items, and why this particular frozen custard shop continues to earn such high praise from diners. You might even find yourself planning a visit after learning more about this iconic Route 66 attraction, as a matter of fact.

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Table of Contents

• Biography of Ted Drewes Sr.
• The Story of Ted Drewes Frozen Custard
• What Makes Ted Drewes Custard Special
• The Famous Concretes and More
• A Taste of Tradition: The Menu and Mix-ins
• Beyond the Custard: Christmas Trees and More
• Getting Your Ted Drewes Fix: Bulk Orders and Shipping
• Frequently Asked Questions About Ted Drewes

Biography of Ted Drewes Sr.

The story of Ted Drewes frozen custard starts with a truly interesting person, Ted Drewes Sr., who was, in a way, quite the entrepreneur in St. Louis. He wasn't just someone who decided to sell sweet treats; he had a varied background that shaped his business ventures. Ted Drewes Sr. was, for instance, known as a champion tennis player, winning the Muny Tennis title, which shows a dedication and drive that likely carried over into his business efforts.

Before his frozen custard stands became famous, Ted Drewes Sr. ran other family businesses, which included a swimming pool and a skating rink. This background suggests a knack for providing entertainment and leisure activities, something that certainly fits with the joy a good frozen custard brings. He was, in fact, a St. Louis attraction himself, known for his athletic achievements as much as for his later culinary successes. His vision for a small custard stand, apparently, grew from these early experiences, building on a desire to offer enjoyable experiences to the community.

It's fascinating to consider how his life experiences, from sports to running various local spots, all contributed to the creation of what Ted Drewes frozen custard is today. He was, quite simply, a man who knew how to create a good time and a good product, and that legacy continues to this very day. His name, very much, lives on through the beloved frozen custard chain he started, a true testament to his lasting impact on St. Louis culture.

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Personal Details and Bio Data of Ted Drewes Sr.

The Story of Ted Drewes Frozen Custard

The legend of Ted Drewes frozen custard began in 1929, not in St. Louis, but rather in Florida, where Ted Drewes Sr., that champion tennis player we talked about, opened his very first frozen custard stand. It was, in some respects, a humble beginning for what would become a truly iconic brand. He soon expanded his operations, eventually bringing his unique frozen custard concept to St. Louis, Missouri, where it truly took root and flourished.

For nearly a hundred years now, Ted Drewes frozen custard has been much more than just a place where St. Louis gets its sweet fix. It has, quite literally, grown into a significant landmark, a place where generations have made memories. The simple act of getting a frozen custard has, for many families, become a cherished tradition, something they do together year after year. This long history is, as a matter of fact, a big part of its charm and why it holds such a special spot in people's hearts.

The shop is also, in a way, famous for its connection to Route 66, that historic American highway. It's a recognized attraction along this famous route, drawing in travelers who are looking for a taste of classic Americana. The very idea of a "good old fashioned frozen custard shop" that takes you back in time is, basically, what Ted Drewes offers. It's a place that feels, somehow, timeless, a sweet reminder of simpler days, and that's why it, still, attracts so many locals and visitors alike.

What Makes Ted Drewes Custard Special

So, what exactly is it that makes Ted Drewes frozen custard so incredibly special and, arguably, different from other frozen desserts? Well, one key thing is the base. Ted Drewes serves vanilla frozen custard, but it's not just any vanilla. The provided information suggests that while sugar is usually the sweetener for custard, honey is what gives Ted Drewes' frozen custard its real heft and, truly, a bright yet nuanced burst of sweetness. This use of honey is, in fact, a distinctive element that sets it apart, contributing to its unique taste and texture.

The texture itself is another big part of the appeal. Frozen custard, by its nature, is thicker and creamier than regular ice cream because it's made with egg yolks and has less air whipped into it. Ted Drewes takes this a step further, creating a custard so thick that it's famous for holding upside down. This "upside down" test has, over the years, become a fun tradition for customers, proving just how dense and rich the custard truly is. It's a little bit of a marvel, really, to see it defy gravity like that.

This thickness and creaminess are what make their signature item, the "concrete," so popular. The concrete, which became a signature item of this frozen custard chain back in 1959, is basically frozen custard blended with various mix-ins until it's incredibly dense and spoonable. It's a dessert that truly satisfies, offering a substantial and rich experience with every single bite. The overall average rating of 4.7 stars from diners, and its ranking as #7 of 1,930 restaurants in St. Louis on TripAdvisor, pretty much speaks volumes about the quality and appeal of this special frozen custard.

The Famous Concretes and More

When you visit Ted Drewes frozen custard, the "concrete" is, arguably, the star of the show, a dessert so famous it holds upside down since 1959. This thick and creamy dessert is, basically, frozen custard blended with your choice of over 30 mix-ins, creating a truly personalized treat. The concrete is, in a way, the ultimate expression of their rich, dense custard, allowing all those flavors to come together in a truly satisfying way. It's a must-try for anyone visiting St. Louis or traveling along Route 66, as it's the home of the original concrete.

While the concrete might be the most talked-about item, Ted Drewes offers a wider variety of frozen treats to suit nearly any craving. You can, for instance, find malts, which are thick, frothy milkshakes with malted milk powder for a distinctive flavor. Then there are shakes, classic blended drinks that are always a refreshing choice. Floats, too, are on the menu, combining creamy custard with fizzy soda for a delightful combination of textures and tastes.

For those who enjoy a more traditional dessert experience, sundaes are also a popular option, featuring scoops of that wonderful vanilla custard topped with various syrups, fruits, and other goodies. And, of course, there are ice cream sodas, a nod to old-fashioned soda fountains. This diverse menu ensures that there is, in fact, something for everyone, whether you prefer a super-thick concrete or a lighter, more classic soda fountain creation. The variety is, quite simply, impressive.

A Taste of Tradition: The Menu and Mix-ins

The beauty of Ted Drewes frozen custard lies not just in its creamy vanilla base but also in the amazing variety of additions you can choose. There are, truly, over 30 mix-ins that you can add to your frozen custard, allowing for endless combinations and personalized creations. This extensive list means that every visit can, in a way, be a new adventure, trying out different flavors and textures to find your perfect treat. It's a playground for your taste buds, you know?

Among the many choices, some specific combinations have become legendary, earning their own names and loyal fans. For example, there's the "Christy," which is, basically, a brownie topped with that wonderful custard, then drizzled with caramel and hot fudge. It's a rich and indulgent choice, really hitting all the sweet notes. Then there's the "Crater Copernicus," a name that sounds as grand as the dessert itself, featuring devil's food cake topped with custard, hot fudge, and, of course, whipped cream. These specific named items, in fact, show the creativity and tradition behind the menu.

For those who prefer a fruitier, perhaps a bit more tropical, experience, the "Hawaiian Delight" offers a sundae with pineapple, bananas, coconut, and macadamia nuts. This particular mix, you see, transports you to a sunny paradise with every spoonful. The menu also lists up-to-date prices for all these options, including concretes, malts, shakes, sundaes, and floats, ensuring you can find your favorite food and enjoy your meal without any surprises. The sheer range of choices is, honestly, one of the main reasons people keep coming back, year after year, sometimes multiple times a season.

Beyond the Custard: Christmas Trees and More

While Ted Drewes frozen custard is, undoubtedly, famous for its delicious frozen treats, there's another, perhaps surprising, aspect to this St. Louis institution: Christmas trees. Yes, that's right! For decades, Ted Drewes has been selling both frozen custard and Christmas trees, creating a unique seasonal tradition for many families. It's a rather interesting combination, but it works, as a matter of fact, creating a year-round presence in the community.

This dual offering speaks to the attention to quality that Ted Drewes has maintained throughout its history. Just as they strive to make their custard the finest in St. Louis, they also aim to provide the finest Christmas trees. This commitment to excellence across different products is, in a way, part of their enduring appeal. It shows a dedication to providing high-quality items to their customers, no matter the season.

So, if you're ever in St. Louis during the holiday season, you might find yourself grabbing a concrete and, perhaps, picking out your Christmas tree at the same spot. It's a unique experience that adds another layer to the Ted Drewes legacy, showing how this business has, truly, become intertwined with the lives and traditions of the people of St. Louis. It's a little bit quirky, but it's very much part of what makes Ted Drewes, well, Ted Drewes.

Getting Your Ted Drewes Fix: Bulk Orders and Shipping

For those who simply can't get enough of Ted Drewes frozen custard, or perhaps want to share the joy with a larger group, there are convenient options for ordering in bulk. The company offers bulk orders for ten or more items, making it easy for personal use, like a big family gathering, or for commercial use, perhaps at an event. This service ensures that the creamy goodness of Ted Drewes can be enjoyed by many, beyond just those who visit the stand directly. You just need to call (314) 481-2652 if you're ordering locally, which is pretty straightforward.

What's even better for those outside the immediate St. Louis area is the option to ship custard. Yes, you can, in fact, have that famous frozen custard sent right to you, even if you live outside of St. Louis. This means that even if you've moved away, or just can't make the trip, you can still experience the taste of this beloved treat. It's a fantastic way to bring a piece of St. Louis tradition right to your doorstep, truly expanding the reach of this classic dessert.

This shipping service, basically, allows people from all over to enjoy the unique flavor and texture of Ted Drewes frozen custard, helping to spread its fame far beyond Missouri. It's a testament to the popularity of their product that they've made it so accessible to a wider audience. So, whether you're planning a big party or just craving a taste of home, getting your Ted Drewes fix, you know, is easier than you might think. Learn more about on our site, and link to this page .

Frequently Asked Questions About Ted Drewes

People often have questions about Ted Drewes frozen custard, given its long history and unique offerings. Here are some common inquiries that come up, providing a bit more insight into this beloved St. Louis institution. It's pretty natural to be curious about a place that has been around for so long, and with such a strong reputation, as a matter of fact.

What makes Ted Drewes frozen custard so thick?

The unique thickness of Ted Drewes frozen custard comes from a couple of key factors. Firstly, frozen custard, by its very nature, is denser than regular ice cream because it contains egg yolks and has less air whipped into it during the freezing process. Secondly, and very importantly for Ted Drewes, the recipe uses honey as its sweetener, which contributes to its distinct heft and creamy texture. This combination allows their famous concretes to be so thick they can, truly, be held upside down without falling out, a popular test for customers.

What is a "concrete" at Ted Drewes?

A "concrete" at Ted Drewes is their signature dessert item, a very thick and creamy frozen custard that is blended with various mix-ins. It's so dense that when you get one, the server will often turn it upside down to show you it won't spill. This particular item became the signature offering of the chain back in 1959. You can choose from over 30 different mix-ins to create your own personalized concrete, making each one a unique and satisfying treat. It's, basically, a super-thick milkshake that you eat with a spoon.

How popular is Ted Drewes Frozen Custard in St. Louis?

Ted Drewes frozen custard is, truly, incredibly popular in St. Louis, considered a landmark and a cherished local tradition. It has an overall average rating of 4.7 stars from diners and, notably, ranks very highly on review sites like TripAdvisor, where it's rated 4.7 out of 5 and is ranked #7 of 1,930 restaurants in St. Louis. For nearly 100 years, it has been a place where sweet treats and family traditions go hand in hand, attracting both locals and visitors alike, making it a truly beloved spot in the community. You can check out what other diners have said about Ted Drewes frozen custard on sites like St. Louis attractions websites, for example.