An icon in Wisconsin. Jimmy's Grotto is a throwback to how things used to be in the 80's, good, simple food. Our family has been coming here for years and it's a tradition that every time we're back in town we grab some Ponzas. I've always found the service to be courteous even when they're slammed with orders, which is often. I've never sat inside as we always take them to go, but the seating area looks good. If you're reading this and you want some food that hits the spot, then look no further. read more

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My husband went here for lunch today. He said the service was outstanding. He then brought me home a pepperoni, mushroom and onion. It was absolutely so crispy flaky crusty. And the inside was absolutely stuffed jampacked packed pepperoni mushrooms, onions. It was delicious!! read more

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I've gotten takeout from this place a couple of time. Ponzas are good and the vibe of the place is rustic/authentic. Only gripe I have is they don't look at their takeout notes, paid extra for xtra sauce- didn't get any. Ok, maybe my mushrooms will come with marinara like I selected on the website, and as usually comes with breaded mushrooms... Nope. Good place to eat but double check your order. Overall good food, mediocre service. read more

Jimmy's Grotto - Pizza Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

Always delicious!! A must stop any time I'm in the area. Ponzarotta every time! I always take it to go.

The service is bad only complete half of the order! Makes excuses for the other half! Waiting for over an hour for them to complete the order! read more

My friends and I were hanging out, watching a soccer game at a local bar and decided to order lunch from Jimmy's Grotto. I called in our order and my friend went to pick it up (he walked over, as the restaurant is half a block away from where we were). His order, a deluxe, was perfect. Mine, after a bite or two, I realized had nothing in it but cheese. My order was supposed to be cheese, sausage, black olives and mushrooms. My to-go container was correctly marked, but my order was wrong. So I rewrapped my order and walked back to the restaurant to show them that there was an error and could they please correct it. They were very apologetic about it and went to work to make it right. I even heard the cashier tell the cook TWICE what the order was supposed to be. Twenty minutes later, I finally sat down to eat my lunch and it was wrong. Again. It was cheese, sausage, mushrooms and onions (which I hate). So my friend took the order back this time and brought back something new. I ended up keeping this one -- even though IT WAS STILL WRONG. It's not as if they had a lot of people in and out and were busy -- they just weren't paying attention!!! Really disappointing!! read more

We visit Jimmy's every year we are back in Waukesha. Today our Ponza's and fried ravioli were excellent as usual. There was no shortage of filling and it was cooked perfectly. Jimmy's is a must when in Waukesha!! read more

Old skool classic. Best to order online or call in advance. Counter orders take 45mins which is ridiculous. The Ponza Rotta are good though, so worth at least a try. read more

We are still somewhat new to town, but had gotten pizza for our movers from this place and everyone seemed to like it. Fast-forward to tonight and we decided to get dinner there. My daughter ordered a burger and fries and she gave it an 8.5/10. My BF ordered a meatball sandwich and gave it a 9/10. He said it could've used more sauce. I ordered a hotdog, but it was not edible. It looked like it had been sitting out for a week somewhere. I had called in the order and it was ready according to the timetable they gave me. If you do pick up, I would not park in the slanted spots. It's awkward to get out as there's no thru-way around the back of the building so you have to turn around awkwardly. Overall, we would definitely try it again as we live nearby. Prices were reasonable and 3/4 of the items ordered were decent. read more

Finished a weekend in Waukesha by getting Jimmy Grotto take out Ponza Rotta Pizza with the hubby. If you haven't been to this little establishment - it is an absolute must! We opted to share a pepperoni ponza rotta with a side of the deep friend pepper rings (think onion ring only green peppers). Still as good as I remember as a kid! This place knows what they are doing. Personally, I will always take my ponza rotta take out, because the restaurant itself is pretty greasy smelling - but I guess what can you do! Still so worth it!! read more

Jimmy's Grotto - ponza rotta - Pizza Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

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A favorite of the locals and a hidden gem. I grew up in Waukesha and loved getting these on the weekends. I've brought a few friends here when I visit my folks and they LOVE it just as much as I do. I can't stray from my favorite... extra cheese, please! Jalapeño poppers were tasty and filled with a lot of cream cheese. Nice to see they take cards as well these days. read more

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We were passing through Waukesha and wanted to visit this iconic establishment, which has quite an interesting history, including inventing a type of fried calzone they call "ponza rotta." We arrived on rainy afternoon to find the place moderately crowded. Despite indications online, it was not clean - the only empty large booths had massive amounts of food on the seats, including whole noodles. I ordered at the counter and we waited, about 30 minutes, for our food: One stuffed ponza rota (for the three girls), a side salad, pepper and onion rings, and a thin-crust taco pizza which we ordered with easy cheese and extra vegetables. I'd never before seen "pepper rings" (like onion rings but with green peppers), so had to try them. Unfortunately, both of the fried appetizers were bad: Dry, tough, and *extremely* salty. (When the kids say something is too salty - it really is.) And don't think I'm being picky: These were way behind even average bar-food fare in Milwaukee. The taco pizza, however, was a major disappointment. For world-class thin-crust pizza in Milwaukee, go to Tomaso's in Cedarburg (the absolute tops) or Zaffiro's on the East Side (Michelin Star). *This* thin crust was pretty thick, chewy, and flavorless. The pizza was not made to order: There was tons of cheese and minimal veggies. And, again - almost too salty to eat (and I like salt). The kids liked the ponza rotta. It looked decent. If this place didn't have something iconic to offer, it'd be two stars, at best. As it is, I'll give it three. read more

My hometown is Waukesha and I haven't had Jimmy's in over 5 years. I loved the Pona Rota, Italians, and Italian Beef. But, when I went here today, something was off. While my Poza Rota was good, it was not as the same as I remember. It was okay, not up to the standards I remember. My wife's Italian Beef Sandwich was cold and the bun was different. We asked for a new sandwich, but they just nuked it. Same with the Italian sausage that a family friend ordered. It was different and not in a good way. After spending with locals and my family, the reason became obvious. The changed vendors and sources to keep costs and prices down. That's the story that they confirmed. Profit over quality. It was a disappointing experience. The question is why and where does that leave fans like me of the once great experience of Jimmy's? People from across would flock there. We didn't care about the price, we only care about the quality that brought us back again and again. That reason was taken from us. I would beg management and the owners to go back to what made them great, bring back the original recipes and sources. Charge us more if necessary. Otherwise, I don't feel compelled to even visit again. I'm sure my up north friends and family wouldn't either. For those of us who remember, this cutting of corners is actually insulting to the greatness that was once Jimmy's Grotto. The special place that was in our hearts has faded into just another Italian joint with mediocre food. Please, improve. Until then, there is no reason to come here. If it doesn't improve, maybe it's time for Jimmy's to close or sell to someone who cares. read more

We did an online order because it's always so popular and busy. Everything was labeled with names, all the food was there and all the sauces as well. Everything was ready at the time we picked and picking it up was easy. The place was clean and well kept. Plan to order online from now on! read more

I've been going to Jimmy's Grotto for a loooooobg time. It is one of my favorite places on the planet. The food is OUTSTANDING. Scrumptious. The Team is always kind. You can eat inside, and it's a cool place. Every time we've been there it's been hopping! Thank you so much Jimmy's Grotto. read more

Pure deliciousness! My friend has been telling me about his love for a ponza for sometime now (he grew up eating this). When I first heard about this ponza, I was trying to picture what this thing looked like. Well, I finally got to try the ponza for myself on Sunday, 9/29/24 around lunch time. The restaurant is a cute original dive which to me are the absolute best spots. Right when we walked in, we were greeted, and the gentleman was so friendly. Everyone working was very nice and communicated well. We ordered a cheese ponza and jalapeño poppers. Our food took about 15 minutes to make and came out hot. Jalapeño poppers were excellent- hot, cream cheesy, and perfectly crispy. The ponza was served hot, cheesy, and perfectly flaky. Absolutely delicious. This may be a must stop for me when I'm visiting my cousins in WI. Hidden little gem! I'm from MN so I loved how slot machines were in the restaurant and the Vikings/Packer game was playing (Yay- Vikings!). I'll definitely be back for another ponza next time I'm in the area. read more

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I love Jimmy's Grotto ponzarottas. Every time I have come to Waukesha to visit my grandparents we have always gotten them from Jimmy's. They are the most delicious creation. It's a wonderfully light and crispy but chewy crust wrapped around whichever toppings you choose. This visit I had the deluxe with a couple of adjustments. It was delicious and satisfying. We ordered online and they were ready early. I don't remember much about the physical location (I didn't pick them up) but the website was fairly easy to use. The only slight disappointment was that there are no up to date coupons on the website and the text club service is not functioning. But otherwise it has a good appearance and it's easy to order. I will definitely be back on my next visit. read more

Picked up a thin crust pepperoni and sausage pizza to bring up to a family member visiting another family member after surgery at Waukesha Memorial Hospital. The crust was deliciously crispy with the perfect amount of toppings for a good price. Definitely recommend. read more

Jimmy's Grotto - Pizza Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

If you know what a Ponza Rotta is, you are a lucky soul! I've been enjoying their naughty, deep fried calzones since I was a kid. I hadn't been there in about 15 years but finally made a visit! It's like a nostalgic thing for me. Back in the day, the place was swamped and even if you called in for pickup, you were expected to wait a bit. They now have an online ordering option and the ready time was about an hour on a Friday night. My sister and I were happy to see there were plenty of tables to enjoy our food onsite. The decor is kinda like a dive bar but much cleaner than the days of old. My Ponza tasted similar to what I remember but it could have used more sauce but you can get a side so I'd recommend that. They are best eaten fresh and hot to get the full flavor effect! My friend loves their pizza so that's worth checking out too. I highly recommend you try their Ponza if you haven't already! Does anyone remember when they sold the frozen ones in local grocery stores? Yum. read more

Rude and horrible service. I've been coming here for 30 years and I will not be coming back. Did an online order for an 11:15 pickup and it's noon now and still nothing ready. Very rude response when I inquired about my order read more

Just moved back in town and my first stop was Jimmys grotto. I got a ponza with cheese, sausage,mushroom and olives. It didn't disappoint.

Bring back the original ingredients and quality we were use too. Jimmy's has gone downhill. They swapped out to cheaper ingredients to make for profit. I want the old school experience like when I was a kid. Raise prices if needed to breathe life into this shadow of it once great glory. Now, you're nothing special anymore. Just an another dive restaurant in Waukesha. Sad. read more

Can't wait for vacation just to detour for deep fried pepper rings and a ponza rotta. Yep, Thx Carroll U for getting me hooked! Definitely a MUST for those that haven't tried it! 34 years is a long time to wait again! read more

An absolute staple - yes! Love this place !! Delicious every time We like getting the ponzi Pizza pockets read more

Jimmy's Ponza Rotta--Decadent, indulgent, gluttonous, and mind-blowingly delicious! Deep-frying a calzone is pure evil genius!!! A must do when in Waukesha. A glorious dive! read more

One of the most unhealthy, greasiest dinners I've ever had but oh does it taste delicious. Yup, I'm definitely going back soon

Sorry but when the owner unexpectedly passed away several years ago it just has gone down hill I no longer go. To bad was a great little dive with what mattered most very tasty fun food at a decent price. Nothing lasts for ever. When the passion is gone the whole thing is gone. read more

The food had no flavor. The place needs to be updated to the fullest. Been there twice with friends don't care for it.

Terrible experience. Came with my family, waited 1 1/2 hours for four ponzas (they told us 35 mins). When we got them, one was blown up and "open", and two of them were way overcooked. Asked them to remake and got a rude look. We've been going heee for years. Usually great. But tonight was horribp read more

Can't get it anywhere else once you have it you'll miss it! Love it!! Not a pizza or anything like that

Dependable and satisfying. The meal I got this week was the same meal I remember having 20+ years ago. Glad we still have this local landmark. Support local small businesses. read more

First time having anything from this restaurant, after a HEAVY recommendation from a longtime Waukesha resident. I ordered a Ponza Rotta, make your own style, cause I can't have the sauce. In my MYO Ponza Rotta, I ordered: Banana Peppers, Green Peppers, Onions, Italian Sausage, Chicken & Cheese. I also ordered Fried Mushrooms. The Fried Mushroom batter was a lil' skimpy, but the Ponza Rotta???? Jesus be a fence!!! All of the veggies were sauteed correctly, the chicken was juicy, and the sausage was flavorful. The crust was slightly crunchy outside, with perfect softness inside. It was a LOT of food....I'm convinced that one standard Ponza Rotta could feed 2 people. I'm rating this ONLY "Good" instead of "Great" because when I ordered at 11am on a Saturday, I had to use DoorDash because the resturant doesn't accept Delivery Orders until 4pm. DoorDash is NOTORIOUS for juicing the prices AND THEN charging an exorbitant delivery fee that is NOT paid to your driver. Also, when I called, the guy that picked up the phone was a tad "raw" in his tone. I'm used to great food places having employees who talk crappy to customers, but if the food is good, we'll deal with it. Every kitchen ain't as bitchin'.... I can't wait to try the Wings, but I hope y'all do NON-Inferno as well.... read more

terrible order was all wrong they did not even care waited over half hour and order was still wrong and it was not that busy saw a guy smoking out the side door it was one of the cooks. read more

Awesome, awesome, awesome. The ponzas are amazing. I hadn't been there for 20+ years and walked in recently and sat down. Rookie mistake. You have to go to the counter and order first. Duh. The restaurant is not exactly Gordan Ramsay style, but the food is crazy good. You definitely want to go to Waukesha and get a ponza. You won't regret. read more

Two words: Deep fried calzone type thing. Ok that was like 4 words. Everyone I take here loves it. This is a call and order type place. If you dine in you will be waiting. I brought the family and we brought books and iPads. There are few places that I day dream about, this is one of them. read more

No seasoning. Bland ass pizza. So disappointed. Heard nothing but good things so I drove out my way to try. I should've stuck to Balisteris' on 68th and wells in milwaukee read more

Officially I am disenchanted with Jimmy's Grotto, a family favorite place to eat for over 30+ years. It use to be of a crust that was crunchy on the outside, doughy and delicious. Gooey cheese oused out when it was cut into and strands of cheese would need to be cut in order to put a bite size into your mouth. Now the crust is subpar. The cheese, well not so gooey anymore. What kind is it? It doesn't ouse, plops out in small cottage cheese like pieces. The 30-40 minute wait for something less par product that Jimmy's Grotto served years ago, is now so very disappointing. Jimmy's Grotto, what happened to the quality food product we use to enjoy? ? read more

Once again this place can't get it right!!! When will I ever learn Just can't get it right Highly disappointing!!!! read more

Ponza is THE perfect comfort food after mother nature dumped yet more snow on us this Fall season! I dont know why I have never had a Ponza before, I should be shamed for missing out on these legendary gooey cheesy pockets of nummy! Loved how even though deep fried, the crust (which is less like a chewy pizza crust and more like if a croissant and pizza dough had a baby) was still 'light'. The crust also has a tidge of greasy, but in all the good ways a pizza should! Inside the Rotta is glorious. Less pizza sauce gives way to more cheese + 'toppings'. Perfection! Its exactly why Reeses revolutionized the Peanut butter cup when they launched their Peanut Butter Eggs = making the insides the star!! Perfect PB to chocolate ratio! I'm less bummed winter is here so my waistline can 'afford' to go back for other ponza combinations! Bring on the stretchy pants and sweatshirts!!!! read more

Jimmy's Grotto - Mushroom & Blk Olive Golden Ponza Goodness! The before eaten picture :) - Pizza Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin

Vegetable ponzo rotto so delicious you won't even mind their lack of customer service. read more

Jimmy's Grotto - Vegetable ponzo rotto, extra crispy. So delicious you won't mind their lack of customer service . - Pizza Near Me - Waukesha, Wisconsin