Breaking News: Delaware Welcomes Its First Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers!
Get ready, Delaware, because a taste of Kansas has arrived! The highly anticipated Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers opened its doors in Middletown on January 14th, marking a significant milestone for the popular chain. But what makes this opening so special?
This isn't just another fast-food joint; it's an experience. Freddy's, which originated in Wichita, Kansas, has rapidly expanded, boasting over 500 restaurants across 37 states and even into Canada. The new Middletown location, found at 645 S. Ridge Road, is strategically placed near Middletown-Warwick Road, offering easy access for locals and travelers alike. The strategic location is next to Kohl's and Chick-fil-A.
The restaurant itself spans a generous 3,013 square feet and includes a convenient drive-thru. The plans were approved back in 2023 by the Middletown Planning and Zoning Commission and Town Council, a testament to the community's welcoming spirit. Developer JRI Hospitality, responsible for opening over 85 Freddy's franchises, is also planning to open 40 more locations in the next decade.
But here's where it gets interesting: the customer response has been overwhelmingly positive. On January 15th, lines snaked from the ordering counter almost to the door, while the drive-thru wrapped around the building. One enthusiastic customer, Robert Esposito, shared his excitement, having previously enjoyed Freddy's on a trip to Pennsylvania. He arrived early to savor his steakburger, fries, and a chocolate shake, proclaiming, "The shake was really good. It was all good." With a staff of approximately 65 team members, Freddy's is ready to serve.
Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers will operate from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. A ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Middletown Area Chamber of Commerce is scheduled for January 21st at 10:30 a.m.
And that's not all! Freddy's is committed to giving back. They're partnering with the nonprofit veterans group Warriors Helping Warriors, donating 10% of all regular and large frozen custard treat sales through February 13th. This is a great way to support the community.
So, what's on the menu? Freddy's is famous for its steakburgers, featuring patties pressed thin for those irresistibly crispy edges. You can customize your burger with a variety of toppings. But the real star of the show? The frozen custard. Unlike traditional ice cream, frozen custard includes egg yolks and is churned slowly, making it denser and creamier. Freddy's offers a wide array of flavors, sundaes, shakes, and even Oreo custard sandwiches and root beer floats. And for something unique to Delaware, they're also serving up fried cheese curds.
The menu also features grilled cheese steakburgers, patty melts, chicken sandwiches, chicken tenders, all-beef hot dogs, fries, cheese fries, onion rings, tots, and their signature "fry sauce." For a limited time, you can try their smash burger tacos and the hot chocolate frost shake. Kid's meals even include a toy, game, puzzle, or a small book.
Now, let's delve into the history. Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers was co-founded in 2002 by brothers Bill and Randy Simon and their friend Scott Redler. The restaurant's name honors Bill and Randy's father, Freddy, a World War II veteran. He received the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. After the war, Freddy returned to Kansas and worked in the hospitality industry for 56 years.
But here's a controversial twist: several years after Bill Simon's passing, Randy Simon and Scott Redler sold the company to Thompson Street Capital Partners in March 2021. The company was sold again last year to investment funds affiliated with Rhône, a private equity firm. A Freddy's spokesperson assured customers that they shouldn't notice any changes, as the executive team, including President and CEO Chris Dull, remains in place. However, it's worth noting that one Freddy's franchisee, M&M Custard, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2025. The bankruptcy exclusively involved franchisees and not the parent firm.
What do you think about the rapid expansion of Freddy's? Do you have a favorite item on the menu? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
