This Cult-Favorite Midwestern Burger Chain is Opening Restaurants in 12 States
A beloved restaurant chain born in the heart of the Midwest is making a major move across the American landscape. Culver's, a name synonymous with roadside burgers and creamy frozen custard, has unveiled a growth strategy that will introduce its unique menu to scores of new customers over the next two years, cementing its status as a national favorite.
The chain is poised to sustain its remarkable pace of opening between 50 and 60 new locations annually, a plan that extends through the end of 2026. If you live in one of the following 12 states, you're in luck. The next wave of Culver's openings will focus on these regions, giving more people a chance to experience the hype firsthand:
Arizona
Arkansas
Florida
Georgia
Illinois
Kansas
Michigan
Ohio
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Wisconsin
So, what drives the devotion? It starts with the chain's headliner: the ButterBurger. The name is a nod to the kitchen's signature move of lightly buttering the crown of the toasted bun, creating a perfect first bite. Each burger is made with fresh, never-frozen beef that is pressed and seared to order.Just as famous is the frozen custard. It's a richer, denser, and creamier alternative to traditional ice cream, prepared in small batches at each restaurant throughout the day. A beloved tradition for regulars is checking the flavor of the day, a rotating creation that might be anything from Georgia Peach to Devil's Food Cake. The menu is also rounded out with comfort-food classics, including authentic Wisconsin cheese curds, crispy chicken sandwiches, and hand-battered North Atlantic cod.
The brand's journey began in 1984 with a single family restaurant in Sauk City, Wisconsin. In the decades since, Culver's has grown into a fast-casual giant with over 1,000 locations spread across 26 states. This explosive growth is built on a reputation for quality ingredients and friendly service, turning first-time visitors into loyal followers.
This continued expansion is a clear sign of the brand's incredible popularity. For countless communities across the country, the wait for their very own neighborhood Culver's is nearly over.
This Cult-Favorite Midwestern Burger Chain is Opening Restaurants in 12 States first appeared on Parade on Jun 10, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 10, 2025, where it first appeared.
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