Andy's Frozen Custard is a regional chain that makes fresh custard daily on-site

Andy's Frozen Custard operates as a franchise business with locations primarily in the Midwest and South, each one making its own custard fresh every day rather than serving pre-made product. The chain is known for rotating flavor specials — the menu changes daily, so the same flavor does not appear every day at every location. You order at a counter, and staff hand-dip the custard into a cup or cone while you watch.

Unlike national ice cream chains where the product is shipped frozen and stored, Andy's locations produce custard on-site using a specific recipe and process. This means texture, temperature, and ingredient freshness vary somewhat by location and time of day. The business model depends on high customer volume to keep the custard fresh, so locations are typically busier during evening hours and weekends.

Key Takeaways

  • Andy's makes custard fresh daily at each location, so the same flavor is not available every day — check the daily menu before you go.
  • Prices vary by location and by item size, so calling ahead or checking the website for your nearest store gives you accurate cost information.
  • Most Andy's locations are franchises, meaning hours, staffing, and service speed differ between stores even within the same city.
  • The chain accepts payment methods that vary by location, so bring cash or confirm card acceptance before ordering if you have a payment preference.

How the daily flavor rotation works

Each Andy's location posts its flavor schedule online or in the store, usually showing flavors for the current week and sometimes further ahead. The rotation includes permanent flavors (called "Classics") that appear regularly, plus limited-time flavors that rotate through the schedule. A flavor that appears on Monday at one location may not appear until Thursday at another location in the same city, because each store manages its own production schedule.

If you want a specific flavor, the fastest way to confirm it is available today is to call the location directly or check their social media page — many stores post the day's menu on Facebook or Instagram in the morning. Arriving without checking means you risk finding the flavor sold out or not scheduled for that day. Custard production takes time, so if a flavor is listed but the store is very busy, it may run out before closing.

Pricing and what affects the cost

Andy's prices depend on item size, location, and what you order. A small cup costs less than a large, and add-ons like extra toppings or mix-ins increase the price. Franchise locations set their own pricing within company guidelines, so a small custard at one store may cost slightly more or less than the same item at another store across town.

The website lists prices for some locations, but the most reliable way to know what you will pay is to call the store you plan to visit or check their local menu online. Prices also change over time, so information from six months ago may not reflect current costs. Many locations offer combo deals that bundle custard with other items at a discount.

Payment methods and what to bring

Most Andy's locations accept both cash and card payments, but some franchise locations may have different policies. A few older or smaller locations still operate cash-only or have minimum card purchase amounts, though this is becoming less common. The safest approach is to bring both cash and a card, or call ahead to confirm what the specific location accepts.

Mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay work at locations that accept cards, but not all stores have updated their systems to support them. If you prefer a specific payment method, a quick phone call to the location removes any doubt and saves you from arriving unprepared.

Hours and staffing differences between locations

Andy's locations are independently owned franchises, so hours vary widely. One store may open at 10 a.m. and close at 10 p.m., while another opens at noon and closes at 9 p.m. Seasonal hours are common — many locations extend hours in summer and reduce them in winter. Some stores close for a few weeks in the off-season, particularly in northern states.

Staffing levels also affect how fast you are served. Busy times like Friday and Saturday evenings mean longer lines and slower service because hand-dipping custard takes time. Visiting on a weekday afternoon usually means shorter waits. The location's website or a phone call confirms current hours and can give you a sense of how busy they expect to be at a particular time.

Custard quality and freshness by time of day

Because Andy's makes custard fresh daily, the product is warmest and softest when ready after production, usually in late morning or early afternoon. As the day goes on and the custard sits in the holding machine, it becomes firmer and colder. This is not a quality problem — it is how the product works — but it means texture changes depending when you visit.

If you prefer softer, creamier custard, arriving in the early afternoon often gives you fresher product. If you prefer firmer custard that holds its shape better, visiting later in the day works well. The flavor itself does not change, but the eating experience does. Asking staff when the current batch was made can help you decide whether to order now or come back later.

Allergens and ingredient information

Andy's custard contains dairy and eggs as core ingredients. Many flavors and mix-ins contain additional allergens like nuts, soy, or gluten. Because each location makes its own product and may use different suppliers or preparation methods, ingredient lists and allergen information can vary by store.

If you have a food allergy or dietary restriction, call the specific location you plan to visit and speak with a manager or someone who handles food preparation. Do not rely on a website ingredient list alone, because local variations exist. Staff can tell you which flavors and toppings are safe for your needs and explain how they prevent cross-contamination during preparation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order Andy's custard online for pickup?

Some Andy's locations offer online ordering through their website or third-party delivery apps, but not all do. Availability depends on whether the individual franchise has set up that system. Call your nearest location or check their website to see if online ordering is available in your area.

What is the difference between Andy's custard and regular ice cream?

Custard contains egg yolks in addition to cream and milk, which gives it a richer texture and higher fat content than standard ice cream. The result is a denser, creamier product. Andy's also makes it fresh daily on-site, whereas most ice cream is made elsewhere and shipped frozen.

Do Andy's locations have a loyalty program or rewards?

Many Andy's franchises run their own local rewards programs or promotions, but these vary by location. Some use a punch card system, others offer discounts on specific days, and some have no formal program. Ask at your local store or check their website to see what they offer.

What happens if my favorite flavor is not on the schedule?

You can call the location and request a flavor, and some stores will note customer requests when planning their rotation. However, there is no may provide a specific flavor will be made. The daily menu is set by production capacity and franchise decisions, not by individual customer requests.

Are there vegan or dairy-free options at Andy's?

Traditional Andy's custard is not vegan because it contains dairy and eggs. Some locations may test or offer alternative products, but this is not standard across the chain. Call your local store to ask whether they have any non-dairy options available.