Popular Fast-Casual Chain To Open 60 Restaurants, Focus On CA Growth

Fast-casual chain Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is on pace to open about 60 restaurants in 2026, with a multi-year development strategy prioritizing growth across several regions of the U.S., including Northern California, according to the business.

Existing franchisees continue to play a significant role in the chain’s growth, with about one-third expanding into additional territories, according to a news release from Freddy’s.

The chain has seven California locations clustered in the southern part of the state in Bakersfield, Barstow, Fontana, Glendora, Norco, San Marcos and Victorville, according to its website.

"A strong franchise system is built on operators who see long-term opportunity within the brand," Chief Development Officer Andrew Thengvall said in the news release.

"As Freddy's continues to grow, we remain focused on supporting our franchisees, through new restaurant prototypes, greater real estate flexibility, and development strategies that help position the brand for sustainable growth."

Freddy’s, which has over 580 locations across the U.S. as of early July, was founded in Wichita, Kansas, in 2002, and is known for its made-to-order burgers, shoestring fries and frozen custard.

Its yearslong development strategy includes a focus on growth in the Northeast, Rust Belt, Midwest, Pacific Northwest, Northern California and Florida.