The Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers location in Machesney Park, Illinois, has officially closed its doors, ending a brief but flavorful chapter in the region’s fast-casual dining scene. Located at 9901 Orlando Street, just off Illinois Route 173, the restaurant has served the community since early 2022, offering its signature steakburgers, crispy fries, and rich frozen custard.
A Short-Lived Presence in Machesney Park
Freddy’s opened its Machesney Park location with high hopes, bringing its retro-themed interiors and family-friendly menu to a growing commercial corridor near the Machesney Park Mall. The restaurant featured indoor seating, a drive-thru, and mobile ordering options, catering to both dine-in guests and on-the-go customers.
Despite positive reviews for food quality and service, the location quietly ceased operations on October 16, 2025. A sign posted on the door thanked guests for their patronage, and by late October, the Freddy’s signage had been removed from the building. The closure came without prior public notice, leaving many regulars surprised.
What Freddy’s Offered
Freddy’s menu is built around its Original Double Steakburger, made with premium beef smashed thin for crispy edges and seasoned with a proprietary blend. Other popular items included:
- Chili cheese fries
- Chicken strips and sandwiches
- Vienna Beef hot dogs
- Frozen custard sundaes, concretes, and shakes
The brand’s fry sauce and cheese curds were local favorites, and the frozen custard—churned slower than traditional ice cream—offered a smoother, creamier texture that became a signature treat.
Location and Community Impact
The Machesney Park Freddy’s was part of a broader expansion into northern Illinois, joining locations in Rockford, Loves Park, and other nearby cities. Its presence added variety to the local dining scene and provided jobs for dozens of employees.
The site at 9901 Orlando Street is a freestanding building with drive-thru access and ample parking. Its proximity to retail centers and residential neighborhoods made it a convenient stop for families, students, and commuters.
What’s Next for the Property?
As of late November 2025, the building remains vacant. There has been no official announcement regarding a new tenant or redevelopment plans. Given the location’s visibility and infrastructure, it’s likely to attract interest from other fast-casual or franchise operators.
Freddy’s corporate has not issued a formal statement about the closure, and it’s unclear whether operational challenges, lease issues, or market performance contributed to the decision.
Freddy’s in Northern Illinois
While Machesney Park’s Freddy’s has closed, fans of the brand can still visit nearby locations in:
- Rockford (State Street)
- Loves Park (North Second Street)
- Belvidere and DeKalb
These outlets continue to serve Freddy’s full menu and maintain the brand’s commitment to quality and hospitality.
Bottom Line: Freddy’s departure from Machesney Park marks the end of a brief but memorable run. For local fans, the closure is bittersweet—but Freddy’s legacy of steakburgers and custard lives on in nearby communities.