By Doug Zellmer | The Northwestern | March 24, 2008

Oshkosh, WI
Troy Holland is typical of many who come for good food at one of Oshkosh’s classic restaurants — Ardy & Ed’s Drive-In on South Main Street.

“It’s a family tradition to come here. I used to come here and get baby (root) beers where I was a kid,” he said. “I’ve been coming here about 40 years.”

Holland recently had a take-out order from Ardy & Ed’s — a hot beef sandwich with french fries and homemade root beer.

“The food and the root beer is good. That’s why I come here,” Holland said. “The service is excellent and they keep the place absolutely spotless inside. They’re always good at taking care of their customers.”

Faithful customers like Holland are an integral part of the success of Ardy & Ed’s Drive-In, which celebrates its 60th anniversary this year.

It’s a nostalgic drive-in with roller-skating carhops who deliver food and beverages to vehicles. There’s even 1950s and 1960s music played to serenade you while waiting for your chow.

“We feel that it’s an honor to be here this long and to serve the people and have the opportunity to make them happy,” said Steve Davis, co-owner of Ardy & Ed’s with his wife, Ardy. “We’ve had a lot of great employees through the years and great customers.”

Originally published online here: http://www.thenorthwestern.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080324/OSH/80324064/1987