Culver’s has filed plans with the City of Lakeland for a new restaurant at the Ashmont mixed-use development on Canada Road, according to Paul Luker, Lakeland City Planning Director.
If it’s approved, the Wisconsin-based chain would add a distinctly Midwestern option to Lakeland’s growing list of restaurants. Culver’s started in Sauk City, Wisconsin, in 1984 and now has more than 1,000 restaurants in 26 states, while staying true to its Wisconsin roots. The popular chain doesn’t have a location in the Memphis area yet, but it has several restaurants in the Nashville area including Franklin and Hendersonville.
The chain is best known for its ButterBurgers. They’re cooked to order with fresh, never-frozen beef and served on lightly buttered, toasted buns. Wisconsin cheese curds and fresh frozen custard are other favorites. The custard is made in small batches throughout the day, and a rotating “Flavor of the Day” keeps regulars coming back. The menu also features hand-battered North Atlantic cod, a nod to the Wisconsin fish-fry tradition.
Lakeland Mayor Josh Roman told The Lakeland Banner he’s looking forward to Culver’s coming to Lakeland. “The food is amazing and it will be a big economic boost to our city. It’s a testament to how these businesses view Lakeland and our future,” he said.
Culver’s would be one of the most recognizable names to commit to Ashmont so far. The 99-acre mixed-use development sits at Canada Road and East Davies Plantation Road. Local developer Vince Smith, who also built Lakeland Town Square, began clearing the land in 2023. Large single-family homes are now going up on the north side of the property. In May, the city approved a site plan for a gated independent living community for active adults, with 248 units across from Cracker Barrel. Site work is also underway on the retail section, where Smith has said he is recruiting a grocery store, a hotel, medical offices, restaurants and a bank, although no other names have been officially announced at this time.
The site plan and construction timeline for the Culver’s location have not been released yet.
