Tom's Drive In

Located in the heart of Appleton, Wisconsin, Tom's Drive In has long been a cherished local fast food restaurant offering a nostalgic yet satisfying menu that masterfully blends classic American comfort food with small-town charm. Operating at 701 E Wisconsin Ave, this casual eatery serves up a variety of mouth-watering options that make it a favorite spot for families, friends, and longtime community members alike.

Tom’s standout offerings focus heavily on quintessential fast food favorites with a Wisconsin twist. The Bacon Cheeseburger is a crowd-pleaser, perfectly crispy bacon layering atop juicy, flavorful beef paired with melted cheese that creates a harmony of savory textures and tastes. For the cheese curds enthusiast, Tom’s delivers with their signature fried cheese curds—golden, irresistibly crispy on the outside and oozing creamy cheese inside—a true local delight that beckons both locals and visitors to indulge without guilt.

Seafood lovers are not forgotten here. The Haddock specials, including the Fishwich, Haddock Dinner, and the deluxe variations, stand out with flaky, tender fish lightly fried to a perfect golden crisp. These dishes emanate that just-caught freshness, with each bite delivering a delicate balance of flaky texture and seasoned breading. The generous Box of Haddock offers a hearty option ideal for sharing, pairing beautifully with classic sides for a full, comforting meal.

Sandwich options range from simple to indulgent, with the Pizza Dog adding a fun twist to the menu, and comfort staples like the BLT and Hot Dog offering familiar flavors for those seeking simplicity with quality. Chicken lovers will find themselves spoiled for choice, with grilled selections like the Grilled Western BBQ Chicken providing a tangy, smoky flavor profile, alongside crispy, breaded options such as the Breaded Buffalo Chicken Deluxe and the Breaded Chicken Parmesan. Each chicken dish showcases a dedication to freshness and flavor balance that makes quick bites truly satisfy.

Dining at Tom’s is informal and relaxed—no pretensions, just good food served in a straightforward, welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s charm largely stems from this simplicity and consistent quality, enhanced by a friendly staff eager to get your order right and a parking lot that accommodates larger groups without hassle. The casual vibe is underscored by decades of loyal customers, including those like Jack Romero, who fondly recall visiting since elementary school, and Rachel Barth, who describes Tom’s as a "homing beacon" for over 30 years. This connection to community is deeply felt the moment you walk in and smell the inviting aroma of fried favorites.

While a few diners mention slight hiccups like order confusion or cleanliness, the consensus remains that Tom’s Drive In offers appetizing, freshly prepared meals made to bring a smile. Amy Austin appreciates the quality enough to plan return visits, and Lisa Meusling points out how quickly staff remedy any order issues—highlighting a responsive and guest-oriented experience.

For anyone craving the quintessential taste of classic Wisconsin fast food in Appleton, Tom’s Drive In is a dependable, flavor-packed destination. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into a crispy, cheesy Bacon Cheeseburger, savoring the fresh haddock delights, or enjoying a hearty plate of chicken with friends, Tom’s delivers a comforting and delicious culinary experience that feels like home.