'Something Special': Oak Forest Culver's Owner Thrilled To Be In Top 5

OAK FOREST, IL — Oak Forest Culver's owner Nick Strache basked in the moment a bit Thursday, but wasn't about to rest on his laurels just yet.

While Strache celebrated his location's finish in the top 5 of all 1,000 Culver's locations nationwide, he hasn't taken his eye off the ultimate prize—winning the Culver's Crew Challenge and earning $50,000 for his location.

Strache, who is a Midlothian native and 2014 graduate of Bremen High School, shared his pride for his business and team following a visit from Culver's CEO Rick Silva and co-founder Craig Culver.

"From the moment we started interviewing and hiring for this restaurant, I knew something special was brewing and in just 14 months this team earned top 5 gold finalist in just year 1!" Strache told Patch. "This is the first restaurant out of 1,000 to ever accomplish this feat in only their first year of being open!"

In the Crew Challenge, restaurants compete in the areas of quality, service, cleanliness, hospitality, community outreach and team member training and development. The winner will be announced at Culver’s annual convention in Dallas in early 2025.

"This community and this team strive every day to make a difference," Strache said. "People are everything at Culver's in Oak Forest."

Strache's dedication to the Oak Forest location at 5410 W. 159th St. has earned him fans and praise from the community since its the October 2023 opening.

"Nick, a proud Bremen High School grad, is really making an impact in the community." Bremen District 228 shared. "His team includes over 20 Oak Forest High School students, and he’s always involved in local fundraisers and events."

Strache is also nominated for Newcomer Mentee of the Year at Culver's, he told Patch. The designation is given to a new franchisee who excels in operational excellence, hospitality, and community involvement.

"From having over 20 Oak Forest High School students to having the best guests in the country right here at home," Strache said, "I’m forever grateful for the hard work my leadership team and crew has put in each and every day striving to make moments and create memories for those who walk in these doors."

The City of Oak Forest also applauded Strache.

"There was a lot to celebrate at the Oak Forest Culver’s this afternoon," the City said Thursday. "... Nick is a valuable member of our business community—employing 20 local high school students, giving back through various fundraisers, and participating in community events."

Strache said he's hopeful they'll win, but ultimately, proud of his team.

"It was a tough year, and hopefully we come home as national champions," Strache said, "but no matter what this restaurant will continue to be an anchor for this community and will continue to deliver that top 5 service."