When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Culver’s
Why Culver’s is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Culver's is a beloved American fast-casual restaurant chain that has grown into a popular destination for friends and families to gather and enjoy quality meals. Founded in 1984 by the Culver family in Sauk City, Wisconsin, the restaurant specializes in its signature ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard, which have become iconic in the Midwestern United States and beyond. With over 1,000 locations across 26 states, Culver's offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that embodies a community-focused spirit and family-friendly environment. Each restaurant is independently owned and operated, emphasizing exceptional customer service and a genuine hospitality experience that makes guests feel like family. The menu highlights include not only the famous ButterBurgers made with fresh ingredients but also hand-battered North Atlantic Cod dinners, grilled and crispy chicken sandwiches, Wisconsin cheese curds, and an array of handcrafted frozen custard flavors made fresh daily. Culver's also offers a variety of mindful choices with balanced meal options. Its commitment to quality, craft, and care, along with community involvement, makes Culver's a great place for friends to meet up, relax, and savor familiar comfort food in a friendly setting.
Here's what people think of Culver’s
As of recent, Culver’s holds a 4.3-star rating based on 2271 reviews.
Customer reviews of Culver's generally reflect a positive dining experience, as evidenced by its strong rating of 4.3 from over 2,200 reviews. Many patrons praise the consistent quality and taste of the ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard, highlighting the freshness and flavorful combinations that set Culver's apart from other fast-casual chains. The welcoming atmosphere and attentive service by staff are also frequently mentioned as reasons why guests enjoy returning. Reviewers appreciate the community-oriented feel of each independently owned location and the care taken to make customers feel valued. On the positive side, many reviews emphasize the excellent balance of traditional home-style meals with fast-casual convenience, noting the variety on the menu, including seafood, chicken options, and vegetarian-friendly fare. However, some negative reviews point to occasional inconsistencies in service speed during peak hours and variability in food quality depending on the franchise location. A number of customers mention longer wait times or occasional errors in orders as minor drawbacks. Despite these few criticisms, the overall consensus is that Culver's offers dependable quality food, a friendly environment, and a uniquely Wisconsin-inspired experience, making it a trusted choice for diners. The breadth of positive feedback far outweighs the negatives, supporting Culver's reputation as a reliable and enjoyable dining destination.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Robert Goolsby
Great smash style burger, thin crispy patties with butter so very delicious. Buns are also good, my new favorite hamburger. Crinkle fries are always hot and fresh. Highly recommend, 5 stars! Update: finally tried something other than the hamburger, spicy chicken sandwich was really good! Grilled Chicken is also amazing!
Nate Funair
Man this location is awesome! Andrea was super lovely and did her order taking very precisely. She has been with Culver’s 11 years after some convo with her. Food was super fresh and hot. Environment was awesome. Thank you so much Andrea and I hope your manager sees this!
Lynette A.
We all know the food at Culver’s is always fresh and delicious. Today was no exception, our order was perfect and the staff was super friendly and welcoming from the moment we entered. What set this visit apart from others was the kindness that George and Andrea displayed once we realized that our vehicle had two flat tires and we were stranded in the parking lot after we were done with our meal. They offered their help, water, and true care which can sometimes be hard to find in strangers these days! George and Andrea are two amazing people and Culver’s is lucky to have them on the team!
Annie Isabel
Everyone greet you with a smile as soon as you walk in makes you feel welcome, restaurant is always clean, and good is good.
Darren Huntley
I placed an order through the Culver’s app and arrived at the location, parking in the designated pick-up spot as instructed. I waited 30 minutes, but no one ever came out with my order. I eventually went inside and informed the staff that I had ordered online and was waiting outside. They looked at each other in confusion, and after checking, they found that my order had been made but was still sitting at the grill area—clearly visible to both them and me. I asked to speak with a manager to request a refund. The manager also appeared unsure of how to handle the situation, though she eventually processed a refund and told me it should post within a few days. Up until my last two visits to this location, I’ve always appreciated Culver’s service and food quality. Unfortunately, after this experience, I no longer feel confident returning.
How to reach Culver’s
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Why Culver’s may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Culver’s with your friends? Culver’s offers an inviting and casual atmosphere that is perfect for gathering with friends or family to share a memorable meal. The essence of Culver’s is not just in its food but in the warm, welcoming environment created by its owners and staff who treat guests like family. Since opening its first location in 1984 in Sauk City, Wisconsin, Culver’s has built a reputation for quality, friendliness, and consistency, making it a comfortable place to connect with others. The menu is crafted to please diverse tastes with signature offerings like ButterBurgers and Fresh Frozen Custard that have loyal fans nationwide. Beyond just dining, Culver’s embodies a strong community orientation, with each independently operated franchise deeply invested in serving and celebrating their local neighborhoods. This combination of excellent food and genuine hospitality creates a perfect setting for a group meetup where everyone feels valued and well-fed. Whether for casual catch-ups, birthday celebrations, or large group outings, Culver’s ambiance and menu make it easy to relax and enjoy quality time together.
What makes Culver’s a great place for group meetups?
Culver’s is well equipped for groups of all sizes, providing ample seating that accommodates friends and families comfortably. Most locations feature family-friendly booths and tables arranged to encourage easy conversation and shared moments. The variety on the menu means groups with different preferences can all find something they love, from the classic ButterBurger to freshly prepared grilled chicken, crispy chicken tenders, or lighter meals under 500 calories for more health-conscious diners. The restaurant’s signature Fresh Frozen Custard served in a variety of flavors, including a rotating Flavor of the Day, offers a fun dessert option that guests can share or savor individually, adding to the specialness of a group outing. Culver’s focus on freshly made, high-quality ingredients and made-to-order meals ensures that the food experience is always enjoyable for everyone at the table. For larger events, some locations may offer catering or order-ahead options, reducing wait times and enhancing convenience for meetups. Overall, the combination of welcoming staff, spacious seating, and a diverse menu makes Culver’s a dependable and friendly spot for group gatherings.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at Culver’s with your friends?
While Culver’s primarily offers a dining experience, it’s also a place where simple pleasures become memorable activities when shared with others. One popular activity is enjoying the iconic ButterBurger together while chatting and catching up, which gives a sense of comfort and delight thanks to its handcrafted quality and distinctive flavor. Another group favorite is trying different flavors of the Fresh Frozen Custard, allowing friends to compare and discuss their favorite tastes, making dessert an interactive experience. Culver’s also encourages a relaxed atmosphere where people can meet up for informal celebrations like birthdays or small reunions, turning ordinary meals into special occasions. Given the family-friendly environment, adults and kids can both enjoy their own menu choices, making it easy for multi-generational gatherings. Some locations drive community spirit by hosting occasional local events or fundraisers, offering groups an opportunity to participate in community engagement while enjoying their time at the restaurant. Together, these simple but meaningful activities make Culver’s a beacon for social connection.
Why is the food at Culver’s ideal for groups?
The food at Culver’s stands out because it caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs while maintaining a consistently high quality that groups can rely on. Their ButterBurgers are a major draw, made with fresh, never frozen beef and custom-toasted buns ensuring every bite is satisfying. Chicken lovers can choose from grilled, crispy, or spicy options, all produced from American family farms that provide tender and flavorful white meat, guaranteeing flavor and quality. Another staple is their North Atlantic Cod, hand-battered and cooked-to-order to crispy, golden perfection, perfect for those who crave seafood. Additionally, Culver’s offers several balanced meal choices under 500 calories, appealing to those looking for a lighter option without sacrificing taste. With kid-friendly meals like Corn Dogs or Grilled Cheese paired with applesauce or fries and a scoop of custard, families find Culver’s particularly accommodating. The careful attention to food preparation and ingredient sourcing across this diverse menu is why Culver’s is ideal when dining with friends who have varying palates and preferences.
How does Culver’s atmosphere enhance the group dining experience?
Culver’s atmosphere is designed to make every guest feel welcomed and comfortable, which significantly enhances the enjoyment of group dining. The ambiance is casual and inviting, providing a relaxed setting where friends can focus on enjoying each other’s company without distractions. The décor generally reflects a midwestern charm with clean, well-lit spaces and friendly staff presence, making visitors feel like they are guests in a cozy home rather than just customers. The founder family’s philosophy of treating everyone like family permeates through the operations, resulting in attentive service that anticipates group needs. This includes accommodating special requests and ensuring timely meal service even when dining with larger parties. Moreover, Culver’s takes pride in being a community hub, often supporting local initiatives and creating a sense of belonging for patrons. This atmosphere combined with quality food fosters an environment where conversations flow easily and memories are made. Those seeking a comfortable and hospitable venue for meetups will find Culver’s atmosphere perfectly suited to the occasion.
Can Culver’s accommodate special dietary needs for groups?
Yes, Culver’s accommodates a variety of dietary preferences and needs, making it a flexible choice for groups with different eating habits. Their menu features “Mindful Choices,” which are fresh, cooked-to-order meals designed to be balanced and around or under 500 calories, catering to health-conscious diners or those watching their intake. Vegetarians can enjoy salads and grilled cheese sandwiches, while gluten-sensitive guests can look for options that avoid breading or request modifications. The emphasis on fresh ingredients and made-to-order meal preparation allows Culver’s staff to adapt dishes where possible to meet special requests, making it easier for groups to dine together without compromise. Additionally, with kid-friendly options that include fruits and manageable portion sizes, Culver’s supports families with children who might have dietary restrictions. The commitment to quality and customization means groups can enjoy their meals together confidently, knowing their dietary needs are respected and carefully managed.
How does Culver’s stand out in terms of community connection?
Culver’s sets itself apart not only by the quality of its food but through strong, genuine connections to the communities it serves. The business model features independently owned and operated restaurants that foster a local touch, allowing each location to embed itself deeply within its neighborhood culture. The founding family’s philosophy has always emphasized respect, care, and engagement with guests, which has contributed to Culver’s reputation as more than just a fast-casual chain. Many stores participate in local sponsorships, fundraisers, and events that bring people together, enhancing the social fabric of their area. This local involvement creates an environment where a meetup at Culver’s is not just about food but also about belonging and supporting one’s community. This dedication to community resonates with customers who want to rally with friends in a place that feels friendly, supportive, and meaningful beyond the dining experience.
What customer experience can groups expect at Culver’s?
Groups can expect a consistently positive and satisfying customer experience at Culver’s, rooted in the company’s dedication to hospitality and quality. Staff members are trained to be attentive and friendly, treating guests like family, which means groups receive warm welcomes and personalized service. Food is always served fresh and made to order, minimizing wait times while maintaining quality, which is especially important for large gatherings eager to start enjoying their meal together. The layout of each restaurant is thoughtfully arranged to facilitate social interaction and comfort for families and groups. Feedback often highlights Culver’s reliability — knowing the food and service will live up to expectations each time adds to the peace of mind when planning a group outing. Whether it’s a casual meet-and-eat or something more celebratory, Culver’s commits to making the experience joyful and memorable for all guests.
Together, these aspects make Culver’s a standout choice for hosting meetups with friends or family, combining quality food, a welcoming atmosphere, healthy flexibility, and deep community roots. With an average rating of 4.3 based on over 2,200 reviews, Culver’s proves time and again why it remains a trusted and beloved destination for group dining across the United States.