Sometimes, there’s no need to get too fancy. The merger of hamburgers and ice cream is an American tradition that remains strong even today. And a new chain restaurant — Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers — is setting up roots in the Dayton region, with one location open and others on the way. I decided to check out Freddie’s and see its take on an American classic.
Atmosphere: Freddy’s is a small casual joint with an ice-cream counter feel. It has a mix of tables and booths, as well as outdoor seating. I visited the Centerville location off Wilmington Pike, situated across from Cabela’s andCostco. Guests order at the counter and then pick up their food at a station.
Food: Freddy’s is not a fancy place so those seeking avocado burgers with Gruyere cheese and a mango chutney will be disappointed. However, the menu features several variety of classic burgers — such as a double cheeseburger, bacon cheeseburger and patty melt — as well as hot dogs, chicken strips and a variety of custard desserts. My guest and I started with a chicken tenders ($3.99), three chunky pieces of juicy chicken served with barbecue sauce. Then, I got the patty melt ($4.19), a tasty thin burger with swiss cheese and grilled onions on rye bread. My guest got the double cheeseburger ($7.29), two thin burgers stacked with American cheese and a pickle, along with good shoestring fries. I wrapped up the visit with a small vanilla custard, blended with a peanut butter cup ($3.49) that I took on the road, and finished before I returned to the office.
Overall: Freddy’s is a fun, affordable restaurant that fits nicely in the Dayton market. It’s not a place for a high-end business meeting, but rather a spot for a casual family meal. Kansas-based Freddy’s currently has four Ohio locations with others on the way, including a site in West Chester. So, local fans of burgers and ice cream (or custard) have plenty to be excited about.
Read more: Dayton Business Journal