When asking yourself about something to do near me in Lakewood 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
Founded in 1984 in Sauk City, Wisconsin, Culver’s has grown into a popular fast-casual restaurant chain with over 1,000 locations across 26 U.S. states by 2025. Known primarily for its fresh, high-quality ingredients, Culver's offers a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for meeting up with friends. Signature menu highlights include the iconic ButterBurgers, North Atlantic Cod hand-battered and cooked to order, and irresistible Fresh Frozen Custard made in small batches throughout the day. The restaurant also serves chicken sandwiches and tenders using whole white meat from American family farms, ensuring juicy and flavorful meals. Inspired by Wisconsin supper clubs and home cooking, Culver’s dinners come with classic sides and family-style dinner rolls, providing comfort food that’s perfect for sharing. Beyond hearty meals, Culver’s features over 20 mindful meal options, each around 500 calories, catering to those seeking balanced choices. The kids’ meals are thoughtfully designed, including favorites like the ButterBurger and chicken tenders. With friendly service, a clean environment, and a variety of delicious choices, Culver’s creates a great casual spot to catch up over comforting meals and treats, making it a favored stop for friends looking for tasty American classics with a Midwestern charm.
Here's what people think of Culver’s
As of recent, Culver’s holds a 3.9-star rating based on 838 reviews.
Reviews of Culver's reveal a generally positive customer experience, with an average rating of 3.9 out of 5 based on 838 reviews. Many guests praise the quality and freshness of the food, especially the ButterBurgers, fried cod sandwiches, and the rich, creamy Fresh Frozen Custard desserts. Reviewers also frequently note the friendly and attentive service that enhances the overall dining experience. Patrons appreciate the consistency of the recipes and the inviting atmosphere that makes it suitable for family gatherings or casual meals with friends. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention longer wait times during busy hours and concern over pricing, with a few customers feeling that the meals are somewhat expensive compared to similar fast-casual options. Some diners have experienced slower service or felt that the value could improve. Despite these criticisms, many still find the food worth the wait and cost. Overall, reviews suggest Culver’s maintains a reliable, enjoyable experience with standout food quality, making it a recommended choice, especially for those fond of Midwestern fast-casual fare and freshly made frozen custard treats.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
James Budd
Solid experience. From the staff to the food. Ordering is easy, the workers are all respectful and have plenty of suggestions if you need them. The food is made fresh so its not ultra fast but im all about quality which is perfect for me. The food is delicious, burgers are fire here. Iv had the double Bacon burger which I love and their patty melt which is legitimately fantastic. The Onion rings are some of the best iv had at a fast food place. I'm excited to try more stuff here because its a 10/10
Brad
Food was excellent as always! Yassmine did an incredible job ringing up our order and is definitely the most pleasant and caring person I've run into at a Culvers in all my years. She is such a motivated and hard working employee and I hope she is there the next time I visit. We'll definitely be back!
Justin “Gryazniy Greeb”
I don't know whether to blame doordash or Culver's but I paid $30 for cheese curds smashed in the bottom of the bag and cheese sauce that I paid $1 for opened and smeared all over the food making the burger and curds soggy. Doordash only gave me $5 back. I don't think I'll be using either business ever again.
Michael Bielski
100% excellent experience. Friendly staff, food tasted exactly like we expected, custard was as wonderful as we remembered. This chain has become one of the places that we look for when we travel, and if there is a way to visit one we make sure it happens. We like the consistently clean locations, fresh food, and great service and this location was no exception. In an age of increasingly terrible service from people that probably should be replaced by a kiosk, locations like this one stand out as an example of what it should be like. I don't know what we have to do to get one in Northern California, but we would definitely be frequent customers if they were near us.
X Tip
The food here is good. The selection is very good. Problem is the orders come out wrong way too often. Today, ordered fish dinner. The frys were not in bag. Didn't discover until home. Last time it was a Culver deluxe with bacon, but got no bacon. Today's fish dinner was two very small pieces about the size of fish sticks and the missing fries made for a meager meal
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?
Gathering your friends at Culver’s is an outstanding choice for a casual yet memorable meetup. This fast-casual restaurant offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere where every guest can enjoy delicious, high-quality food that feels like a comforting treat. Known for its signature ButterBurgers and creamy Fresh Frozen Custard, Culver’s creates a shared culinary experience that can satisfy everyone's cravings, making it the perfect place to bond over food. The legacy of the Culver family focuses as much on the people as on the food, emphasizing warmth in hospitality, which makes groups feel truly welcomed and valued. Whether you’re catching up with old friends or celebrating a family occasion, the familiar and inviting environment that Culver’s fosters promotes laughter, conversation, and togetherness. You’re not just coming for a meal but for a genuine experience where comfort food and friendly smiles create lasting memories.
What activities can a group do at Culver’s, and why is it perfect for group meetups?
Culver’s offers more than just food—it provides a setting ideal for shared enjoyment and relaxed socializing. First, groups can indulge in a variety of culinary options that cater to diverse tastes. From the rich ButterBurgers to the hand-battered North Atlantic cod dinners, and customizable Balanced Meal options, there is something for everyone at the table. This flexibility makes it easy for groups to find their favorites without compromise, facilitating a harmonious dining experience. Additionally, the casual atmosphere supports lively conversation, whether you’re sitting indoors in a cozy dining area or enjoying the fresh air in outdoor seating at many locations.
Culver’s most beloved frozen custard dessert doubles as a social activity, especially with its rotating Flavor of the Day and classic menu items like the Concrete Mixer, which friends can sample together and discuss their favorites. For families, the Scoopie Kids’ Meals keep children entertained and well-fed, so adults can relax and enjoy the gathering. Moreover, Culver’s staff often fosters a friendly community vibe, adding to the comfort and ease that are essential for group dynamics. The restaurant's layout and design are meant to accommodate groups comfortably without the noise or rush that characterizes many fast-food environments.
How does Culver’s food selection enhance group gatherings?
The food at Culver’s is designed to bring people together with quality and variety. The ButterBurger, a product of fresh, never-frozen beef, cooked to order and served on a butter-toasted bun, is widely celebrated as a signature item that prompts nostalgia and joy. For friends who prefer poultry, the restaurant offers grilled, crispy, or spicy chicken sandwiches and tenders made from whole white meat chicken raised on American family farms, assuring freshness and tastiness. Groups that enjoy seafood can bond over Culver’s hand-battered Atlantic cod, an homage to Wisconsin supper club traditions, served with a family-recipe tartar sauce whose complex flavors complement the golden, crispy fish.
For those seeking healthier or lighter options, Culver’s provides over 20 balanced meals, each around 500 calories, allowing health-conscious friends to enjoy flavorful food without guilt. The inclusion of these mindful choices in the menu confirms Culver’s commitment to serving a broad audience, which is critical for groups with different dietary preferences. Also, family-style dinners like Beef Pot Roast and fish fry dinners come with two classic sides and a dinner roll, promoting a sense of sharing and home-style comfort that enhances any group meal.
What makes Culver’s atmosphere suitable for hosting friends and family?
The atmosphere at Culver’s combines the casual ease of a fast-casual restaurant with a warmth that feels distinctly Midwestern and welcoming. This feeling stems from the Culver family’s origin and ethos—rooted in their Wisconsin hometown and based on strong family and community values. Every location strives to mirror that spirit by hiring friendly staff who treat customers like family members rather than just guests. This human touch creates an environment where everyone feels relaxed and valued, making Culver’s a fitting destination for a social meetup.
The design of Culver’s restaurants supports group interactions — tables are spaced to allow easy conversation without excessive noise, and many locations offer seating areas that accommodate larger parties comfortably. The restaurant is also well-lit and clean, fostering a refreshingly positive ambiance. Culver’s dedication to fresh, handcrafted meals prepared in small batches throughout the day ensures that guests feel their food is special and made with care, enhancing the overall dining experience for groups who want to linger, chat, and savor both food and company.
What makes Culver’s desserts a perfect part of a group outing?
Desserts at Culver’s are more than an afterthought; they are a highlight that can turn a simple meal into an occasion. Their Fresh Frozen Custard, made in small batches multiple times daily at each location, is remarkably smooth and creamy, offering a texture and flavor profile that stands out from typical ice cream or soft serve. This special custard lends itself well to social enjoyment, whether you order single scoops, concrete mixers blended with mix-ins, or sundaes topped with homemade sauces and toppings.
Groups can share and compare different custard flavors, including the popular daily Flavor of the Day, encouraging fun conversations and lighthearted debates. Moreover, kids and adults alike enjoy the Scoopie Kids' Meals that come with their own custard scoop, making dessert part of the whole shared experience. This mutual enjoyment creates delightful moments of indulgence and connection, providing a sweet finish to a group gathering that folks will remember fondly.
How does Culver’s community connection enhance the experience for groups?
Culver’s is deeply connected to its communities, with the majority of its restaurants independently owned and operated by local entrepreneurs who are committed to supporting their neighborhoods. This local ownership model means that each Culver’s is invested in creating a warm and friendly atmosphere that resonates with local guests. For groups, this community orientation means the vibe is less commercial and more personal — you feel like you’re dining at a place where both the owners and staff care about making your visit enjoyable.
These community ties often manifest in sponsorships, events, or local partnerships that further enhance the social value of visiting Culver’s. Hosting a meetup here can feel like participating in a shared community space, adding an extra layer of meaning and connection to the gathering. For events like birthdays, casual celebrations, or just regular catch-ups, the sense that Culver’s is part of your community adds comfort and familiarity that can’t be matched by generic chain restaurants.
What makes Culver’s a convenient and accessible choice for hosting groups?
Culver’s locations across 26 states, primarily in the Midwest but spreading wider, make it a convenient option for many people to meet up without long travel. The restaurants often situate themselves near major highways or city centers, so groups with members coming from different areas can easily find a central spot. This accessibility reduces the logistical challenges of organizing group meals and increases the odds that everyone can attend.
Inside, Culver’s offers clean, modern dining rooms designed to handle varying group sizes, including families with children, young adults, and mixed-age groups. Drive-thru and carryout options also mean that groups looking to combine a quick meal with an outdoor activity can do so effortlessly. Parking lots are generally spacious, reducing stress for attendees arriving by car. All these factors combined make Culver’s an efficient and manageable choice for groups wanting to eat together without fuss.
These considerations show why Culver’s is an excellent venue for hosting gatherings with friends or family: a blend of delicious, diverse food options, a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, community roots, and practical accessibility. Whether you come for the famous ButterBurgers, indulge in fresh frozen custard together, or enjoy a wholesome dinner, Culver’s delivers a social dining experience that nurtures connections and creates happy memories.