If you’ve lived in the south suburbs for a minute, you know the drill. You’re driving down Cicero Avenue, the hunger kicks in, and you have about fifty options for a quick bite. But there’s a reason the line at Culver’s in Matteson IL always seems to be humming, even when the place across the street is a ghost town. Honestly, it isn’t just about the burgers.
It’s about Dawndria Murray.
See, a lot of fast-food spots are run by some faceless corporation or a manager who’s just counting down the minutes until their shift ends. The Matteson location is different. Dawndria worked her way up—fifteen years in the trenches—from Tinley Park to managing Matteson, before finally becoming the owner-operator in 2020. She’s the kind of leader who’s actually on the floor, mopping tiles or working the register when things get hectic. That kind of energy trickles down. You can feel it when someone hands you your bag with a "please" and a "thank you" that actually sounds like they mean it.
What People Get Wrong About the Matteson Location
Most people think a Culver’s is a Culver’s. Not quite. The Matteson spot at 20716 S. Cicero Ave has become a sort of local hub. While most fast-food joints are designed to get you in and out in three minutes flat, this one has a dining room that can seat 120 people. It’s huge. It’s where local families go after a game at the Matteson Community Center and where retirees grab coffee and talk shop.
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There's this weird misconception that "fast food" can't be "fresh food." But Culver’s in Matteson IL operates on a "cooked to order" mandate. If you order a ButterBurger, they aren't pulling a grey patty out of a warming drawer. They’re smashing fresh, never-frozen beef onto a grill the moment you pay. That's why you get that lacey, crispy edge on the burger that you just can't replicate with frozen meat.
The Flavor of the Day Obsession
If you aren't checking the flavor forecast before you leave the house, are you even living? The Fresh Frozen Custard here is made in small batches all day long. Because custard has less air than ice cream and is served at a slightly warmer temperature, it’s basically like silk.
In Matteson, the "Flavor of the Day" is a big deal. You might walk in and find:
- Salted Caramel Cookie Dough (the undisputed heavyweight champ)
- Caramel Cashew
- Chocolate Oreo Volcano
- Strawberry Cheesecake
The Concrete Mixers are where things get dangerous. You can basically play mad scientist and mix in whatever you want. Real talk: the Wisconsin Cheese Curds are the only acceptable side dish if you're trying to do it right. They get these from La Grander Hillside Dairy in Wisconsin, and they have that specific "squeak" when you bite into them. If they don't squeak, they aren't real curds. Period.
More Than Just ButterBurgers
Look, the burgers are the stars, but the North Atlantic Cod is the sleeper hit. They hand-batter it right in the kitchen. It’s flaky, it isn't greasy, and the tartar sauce—made with olives and capers—actually has flavor. It’s a far cry from the square, processed fish patties you find elsewhere.
Then you’ve got the Chicken Tenders. These are actual pieces of whole white meat, not some "pressed and formed" mystery meat. If you're feeling spicy, the Buffalo tenders have a decent kick that isn't just vinegar and red dye.
Why the Community Keeps Coming Back
Business at the Matteson location has been up significantly under Murray’s leadership, and it isn't an accident. She’s received awards for her staffing numbers because, frankly, people actually want to work for her. In an industry where turnover is usually 100% every few months, she still has employees who have been with her since she took over.
The location also does the "Give Local" thing for real. They host Share Nights where a chunk of the sales goes to local schools or youth sports. It’s that old-school Midwest hospitality that feels a little out of place in 2026, but in a good way.
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Practical Tips for Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Culver’s in Matteson IL, here’s the lowdown on the logistics:
- Timing is Everything: The drive-thru can get backed up around 6:00 PM. If you’re in a rush, use the "Curdside" pickup. You order on the app, pull into a spot, and they bring it out. It’s usually faster than the line.
- The Kids' Meal Hack: Every Scoopie Kids' Meal comes with a token for a free scoop of custard. You can save those up and trade 10 of them for a toy or just use the coupon on the bag for an immediate treat.
- Seating: If you have a huge group (we’re talking 10+ people), this is one of the few places in Matteson that can actually accommodate you without a reservation.
- The Menu Secret: You can ask for "extra crispy" on the fries or the curds. They’ll leave them in the fryer for an extra thirty seconds, and it makes a world of difference.
Actionable Steps for the Best Experience
Don't just drive through and grab a burger. To really get the most out of this local staple, try this:
- Check the Flavor of the Day: Use the Culver's app or website specifically for the 20716 S. Cicero Ave location before you leave. There’s nothing worse than craving Peanut Butter Cup and finding out it’s Mint Chip day.
- Join the MyCulver’s Rewards: You get a BOGO Value Basket just for signing up.
- Try the Pot Roast Sandwich: If you’re tired of burgers, the pot roast is legit. It’s slow-cooked and actually tastes like something your grandma would make on a Sunday.
- Visit During Off-Peak: Between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM, the dining room is quiet, the custard is fresh, and you can actually sit by the window and watch the world go by on Cicero.
At the end of the day, Culver’s in Matteson IL succeeds because it treats fast food like a service, not just a transaction. Whether you’re there for a $6 ButterBurger or a massive Concrete Mixer, you’re getting a slice of Wisconsin hospitality right in the heart of the south suburbs.