Craig Culver, co-founder of the beloved fast-casual chain Culver’s, has become a prominent figure in the restaurant industry, known for his dedication to quality food and exceptional customer service.
Established in 1984 in Sauk City, Wisconsin, Culver’s was born from Craig’s vision to create a dining experience that combined fresh ingredients with a welcoming atmosphere.
Alongside his wife Lea and his parents, George and Ruth, he set out to introduce the world to their signature ButterBurgers and rich, creamy frozen custard.
This article explores Culver’s journey, highlighting how his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for hospitality have not only shaped the brand but also left a lasting impact on the fast-food landscape.
Early beginnings
Craig’s journey to creating one of the most recognizable restaurant chains in the U.S. was influenced by both family legacy and personal ambition.
Born into a family with a background in the restaurant industry, Craig’s early exposure to the business laid the foundation for his future success.
His father, George Culver, was a restaurant manager, and Craig grew up learning about the intricacies of running a food business.
The Culver family’s experience in the restaurant industry gave Craig invaluable insight into the importance of service, quality, and consistency.
However, the seed for Culver’s restaurant empire was planted during a pivotal moment in Craig’s life.
In 1984, Craig, along with his wife, Lea, and his parents, George and Ruth Culver, opened the first Culver’s location in Sauk City, Wisconsin.
The idea was simple yet revolutionary: create a restaurant that specialized in fresh, made-to-order burgers and premium, handcrafted custard, paired with outstanding customer service.
The vision
What set Culver’s apart from other fast-food chains was its focus on quality ingredients and a commitment to serving freshly prepared food.
While many fast-food chains relied on frozen products or pre-made items, Culver’s set itself apart by using only fresh, never frozen beef for its signature ButterBurgers.
These burgers were made with a unique recipe: beef patties cooked to perfection and then buttered, creating a rich, flavorful taste that stood out in a crowded fast-food market.
But the ButterBurger was just the beginning. The Culver’s family wanted to create a full dining experience that felt both premium and accessible.
Alongside the burgers, the restaurant offered fresh frozen custard—an indulgent treat made with the finest ingredients.
Craig and his team worked tirelessly to perfect the custard, ensuring it was creamier, richer, and more flavorful than anything offered by competitors.
The result was a product that delighted customers and kept them coming back for more.
Another key element of Culver’s success was its dedication to customer service. Craig believed that great food should always be paired with exceptional service.
From the very beginning, Culver’s restaurants emphasized a friendly, welcoming atmosphere where customers felt valued.
This emphasis on hospitality became a core part of the Culver’s brand and was instrumental in building customer loyalty.
Expanding the brand
From its humble beginnings in Sauk City, Culver’s quickly grew in popularity.
By the early 1990s, the company had opened several additional locations across Wisconsin, thanks to word-of-mouth and the growing reputation of their high-quality offerings.
But it was in the mid-1990s that the company began to consider expansion outside of Wisconsin.
The first Culver’s franchise opened in 1995 in the neighboring state of Minnesota, marking the beginning of a broader expansion effort.
Craig’s vision for Culver’s was never just about creating a successful restaurant chain—it was about building a sustainable, family-oriented business that could thrive for decades.
The franchise model, which Culver’s adopted in the 1990s, allowed the brand to grow at a rapid pace while maintaining the high standards that had made the restaurant so popular in the first place.
By 2000, the company had expanded into other Midwestern states and was well on its way to becoming a national brand.
As the brand continued to grow, Craig and his team remained committed to the core values that had driven the company from the start.
Every new location was built with the same attention to detail, ensuring that the quality of food, service, and overall customer experience remained consistently excellent.
Innovation and community engagement
While many restaurant chains are content to rely on a formulaic approach to business, Craig understood the importance of innovation.
The company continued to introduce new menu items and seasonal offerings, keeping the brand fresh and exciting for customers.
Specialties like the Culver’s Wisconsin Swiss Melt, the Chicken Tenders, and the Signature Fresh-Made Salads added variety to the menu, catering to different tastes and preferences.
One of the company’s most successful innovations was the introduction of the “Flavor of the Day” custard feature.
This rotating selection of unique custard flavors gave customers something to look forward to and created an element of fun and surprise for loyal fans.
Each month, Culver’s would release new flavors, and customers eagerly awaited the next delicious treat.
Culver’s also took a unique approach to community engagement.
The company has always believed in giving back to the communities that supported its growth.
Through initiatives such as Culver’s “Scoops of Thanks Day,” the company has raised millions of dollars for local charities and causes.
This commitment to philanthropy not only strengthened the company’s relationship with its customers but also enhanced its reputation as a company that genuinely cares about making a positive impact.
The legacy of Craig Culver
Today, Culver’s stands as one of the most beloved fast-casual chains in the United States.
With over 900 locations across the country, the company’s growth and success are a direct result of Craig Culver’s vision, leadership, and dedication to his craft.
Under Craig’s stewardship, the company has not only achieved impressive financial success but has also become a model of customer service, quality, and innovation.
In 2017, Craig stepped down as CEO, passing the reins to his son, Luke Culver, and long-time company veteran, Joe Koss.
However, Craig remains actively involved in the company and continues to play a key role in its development and growth.
His commitment to the brand and its values ensures that the legacy of Culver’s will continue for generations to come.
Culver’s today
Under Craig’s leadership, the restaurant chain has become synonymous with quality food, excellent customer service, and community involvement.
As the company continues to expand across the U.S., it remains true to its roots in Sauk City, Wisconsin.
The menu has expanded, but the focus on fresh, made-to-order food and a family-friendly atmosphere remains unchanged.
Culver’s success story is a testament to the power of hard work, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to quality.
From a small town in Wisconsin to over 900 locations nationwide, the journey of Culver’s and its founder, Craig, serves as an inspiration to entrepreneurs and restaurateurs everywhere.
Whether you’re enjoying a ButterBurger or indulging in a cup of fresh custard, every visit to Culver’s is a reminder of the passion and dedication that went into creating this iconic brand.
Conclusion
The story of Culver’s is a story of vision, perseverance, and the drive to create something special.
Craig’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer service laid the foundation for a restaurant chain that continues to thrive today.
As Culver’s expands into new markets and reaches new customers, the legacy of Craig will undoubtedly remain at the heart of the company’s success for years to come.
