Despite my unfortunate diagnosis of lactose intolerance at a young age, I have always been a big fan of cheese curds. Being a Wisconsinite for the entirety of my 18 years, I have had the opportunity to taste dozens and dozens of recipes across the state, and--not to toot my own horn--but I sure know what combination makes for a deliciously cheesy dish. Whether they be giant and oozing with cheddar flavor, or small and squeaky as they roll across the tongue, there are several savory curds across this area that sufficiently prove Wisconsinites aren't called "cheese heads" for nothing.

Dooley's Pub: Eau Claire, WI

While these "curds" may look more like ginormous cheese "cubes," I certainly can't leave any room for complaints in the realm of decadent flavor. These curds are perfectly fried every time I order them (which is probably too much, considering I live in the area), and are literally oozing with cheesiness. As you take a bite (because these guys are a little too big to just devour in a single motion), strings of cheesy goodness leak from your mouth, leaving you immediately begging for more. The restaurant offers these curds in multiple cheese flavors, but my personal favorite is the classic cheddar. It makes for a perfect combo with the ranch dipping sauce on the side (although they taste divine without ranch as well).

Curd Girl: Madison, WI

This food service on the move holds truth to it's name, being a couple of girls with a supreme cheese curd recipe. The Curd Girl food truck is commonly spotted on the streets of Madison, serving a traditional, home-made cheese curd with a hand-battered, crispy crunch. The uniqueness of the batter combined with the homemade dipping sauces provide a truly savory taste that you have to experience to believe. Next time you find yourself in Madison, don't forget to chase these curds down!

Milwaukee Burger

Despite it's name, Milwaukee Burger is a family favorite restaurant and pub that can be spotted at multiple locations across the great state of Wisconsin. While the chain holds true to it's title with some pretty supreme Milwaukee style burgers, what truly brings me to this place is--of course-- the curds. Much like Dooley's, these curds are huge in not only size, but flavor. These cheese curds highly contrast Curd Girl's unique crunch with a blast of gooey bliss, bringing an instant smile to any cheese lover's face. Milwaukee Burger also provides a delicious southwest ranch dipping sauce aside from their typical ranch option, packing a little extra punch for those that like some spice in their meal. Whether you be in Franklin, Appleton, or even Eau Claire-- be sure to give this place try when cheese curd cravings call your name.

Culver's

While this common fast food chain has spread it's wings across the midwest region of the nation, it contains a savory curd recipe born and raised in Wisconsin that we simply can't forget to mention. These tiny drops of cheesy delight pack an initially crunchy, decadent taste that transforms into a squeaky texture of pure deliciousness. While these curds make for a wonderful combination with ranch sauce, like those previously mentioned, they also pack a unique flavor when dipped in plain old ketchup (my most favorite condiment of all time). Their squeaky taste contrasts the previously mentioned gooey curds, thus making for a slightly less messy meal, and are available in multiple flavors that you have to taste to find out.

Mike's Cheese Shack: Eau Claire, WI

While this "shack" originally started as a food truck service across the midwestern area, it has finally planted its feet on the ground in Eau Claire and the residents couldn't be happier. Specializing in recipes of plain or spicy cheddar curds and providing generous free samples as you walk in, this place packs the perfect combination of delicious entrees and delightful customer service. Mike, the man himself, cooks these curds behind the scenes, and I can personally say that he does a terrific job. These curds provide a crispy outside with a decadently gooey inside, and are yummy combinations with both ranch or marinara sauce. While the shack only opened a couple of weeks ago, this place is one to watch-- perhaps it is headed to a city near you (But until then, the taste of these curds alone is worth the drive up to Eau Claire-- I promise!).

Kroll's Tavern: Green Bay, WI

Sure, most people head to Green Bay for a seat in Lambeau Field for the Packer Game-- but if you forgot to buy your tickets or are simply craving a delicious order of curds-- this is the place for you. Kroll's serves classic cheese curds, full of flavor and crispy crunch. With a choice in dipping sauces, a beer in hand, and the Packer game on screen, this place provides the perfect atmosphere for those who like a little entertainment on the side with their cheese curds (because the taste of these curds will demand center stage, no doubt).

Mogie's: Eau Claire WI

Yeah, yeah-- I know what you're thinking: Another curd place in Eau Claire? They can't be that good. But seriously, these things are amazing. Although this place specializes in their alcoholic beverages, a side of cheese curds is certainly never a bad idea. These curds are decadently classic, providing a crisp yet oozing flavor complete with your typical ranch dipping sauce on the side. With an entertaining atmosphere, and yummy curds and beverages, you simply can't go wrong with Mogie's.

The Old Fashioned: Madison, WI

Serving some stereotypical Wisconsin delights, such as burgers, beer, brats, and--of course-- cheese curds, this restaurant is the place to be for the ultimate Wisconsin food experience. The curds are not shy of excellent, providing the classic gooey texture, and serving as a delicious combo with any other stereotypical Wisconsin dish. If you are looking for the ultimate Wisconsinite's delight and a feel-good atmosphere, this is the restaurant to stop at in Madtown.

Now, as any Wisconsinite knows, the entire state is filled with endless areas to get delicious cheese curds-- so the best places are certainly not limited to this list-- But, seriously, all of these are worth your while. In essence, a bite of any one of these good old fashioned curds will have you wearing a cheese head in undying support-- Wisconsinite or not.