Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, a beloved name in the fast-casual dining scene, has officially opened its third location in the Columbia metropolitan area. Known for its retro-style ambiance, signature steakburgers, and rich frozen custard, Freddy’s continues to grow its footprint in South Carolina with the launch of its newest branch in Irmo. This expansion marks a strategic move to bring the Freddy’s experience closer to customers in the Ballentine/Irmo area, responding to strong community demand and positive feedback from its existing locations.
A New Chapter Begins in Irmo
The new Freddy’s location opened its doors on July 17, 2018, at 10611 Broad River Rd., Irmo. Nestled in a bustling corridor that connects Columbia to its surrounding suburbs, the restaurant is ideally positioned to serve both local residents and commuters. With its classic red-and-white color scheme, nostalgic decor, and welcoming atmosphere, the Irmo branch captures the essence of Freddy’s brand identity while offering a fresh dining option for the community.
This third Midlands location joins two other Freddy’s establishments in the area: one at 457 Killian Rd. in Columbia and another at 2879 Sunset Blvd. in West Columbia. Each location has contributed to building Freddy’s reputation for quality food, friendly service, and a family-friendly environment. The Irmo branch is expected to continue this tradition while catering to a new segment of customers.
Franchise Owner’s Vision and Community Focus
Brett Rickert, the franchise owner of the Irmo location, has been instrumental in bringing Freddy’s to this part of the Midlands. His decision to open a third branch was driven by the enthusiastic response from customers at the first two locations. “The feedback they got from their first two area locations was good,” Rickert shared. “Therefore, they decided to bring Freddy’s near the customers in the Ballentine/Irmo area. Our proximity to Columbia makes us an excellent lunch or dinner place for customers who want to come after driving.”
Rickert’s comments reflect a thoughtful approach to expansion—one that prioritizes accessibility and convenience for customers. By situating the new restaurant in Irmo, Freddy’s is tapping into a growing suburban market while maintaining proximity to Columbia’s urban center. This strategic placement allows the brand to serve a diverse customer base, from families and students to professionals and travelers.
The Freddy’s Experience: What Sets It Apart
Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is more than just a place to grab a quick bite—it’s a destination for comfort food lovers. The menu features a variety of steakburgers made with lean ground beef, cooked to order and served on toasted buns with Freddy’s signature seasoning. Guests can customize their burgers with a range of toppings, including cheese, pickles, onions, and Freddy’s famous fry sauce.
In addition to steakburgers, Freddy’s offers crispy shoestring fries, Chicago-style hot dogs, grilled chicken sandwiches, and a selection of sides. But what truly sets Freddy’s apart is its frozen custard—a rich, creamy dessert made fresh throughout the day. Available in cones, sundaes, and concretes, Freddy’s custard is a favorite among customers of all ages.
The retro-style decor adds to the overall experience, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Red vinyl booths, checkered floors, and vintage photos create a welcoming environment that encourages guests to relax and enjoy their meals. Whether dining in or taking out, customers can expect consistent quality and friendly service.
Community Engagement and Local Impact
Freddy’s expansion into Irmo is not just about business growth—it’s also about community engagement. The restaurant has already begun to establish itself as a neighborhood fixture, participating in local events and supporting charitable initiatives. By hiring local staff and sourcing ingredients from regional suppliers when possible, Freddy’s contributes to the local economy and fosters a sense of community pride.
The Irmo location is expected to create dozens of jobs, ranging from kitchen staff and cashiers to management roles. This employment boost is particularly significant for young adults and students seeking part-time work. Freddy’s emphasis on training and development ensures that employees gain valuable skills and experience, making it a desirable workplace in the fast-casual sector.
Moreover, Freddy’s commitment to cleanliness, safety, and customer satisfaction has earned it a loyal following. The brand’s emphasis on hospitality and consistency resonates with customers who value a reliable dining experience. As the Irmo branch continues to grow, it will likely become a go-to spot for family outings, lunch breaks, and weekend treats.
Strategic Growth in the Midlands
The opening of Freddy’s third Midlands location reflects a broader trend in the fast-casual industry: strategic, customer-driven expansion. Rather than saturating the market, Freddy’s has chosen to grow thoughtfully, responding to demand and identifying areas with strong potential. The Ballentine/Irmo corridor is one such area, characterized by residential growth, commercial development, and increased traffic flow.
By positioning itself along Broad River Rd., Freddy’s benefits from high visibility and accessibility. The location is convenient for commuters traveling between Columbia and Lake Murray, as well as for residents of nearby neighborhoods. This accessibility, combined with Freddy’s strong brand recognition, positions the Irmo branch for long-term success.
Rickert’s leadership and understanding of the local market have played a key role in this expansion. His ability to listen to customer feedback and adapt accordingly demonstrates a commitment to excellence and innovation. As Freddy’s continues to grow in the Midlands, Rickert’s approach may serve as a model for future franchise owners.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Freddy’s?
With three successful locations in the Columbia metro area, Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers is poised for continued growth. The brand’s emphasis on quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction provides a strong foundation for future expansion. While no official announcements have been made regarding additional branches, the success of the Freddy’s Irmo location suggests that Freddy’s will remain open to new opportunities.
In the meantime, customers can look forward to seasonal menu items, promotional events, and community partnerships. Freddy’s commitment to innovation ensures that there’s always something new to discover, whether it’s a limited-time custard flavor or a special combo deal.
As the Irmo branch settles into its new role, it will continue to serve as a testament to Freddy’s values: delicious food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere. For residents of Ballentine, Irmo, and beyond, Freddy’s offers a taste of nostalgia with a modern twist—a place where memories are made, one steakburger at a time.
See More: Freddy’s Irmo