When You’re in Decatur, You Go to Krekel’s

Fast food might be quick, but the same old places get tiring. The usual suspects—McDonald’s, Dairy Queen, or Taco Bell — lose their appeal after a while. You get the same fries, the same burgers, the same drive-thru voice asking if you want to “make it a combo.” Luckily, in Decatur, we have our own fast-food joint that has been breaking the cookie-cutter mold for more than 60 years.

Krekel’s isn’t just fast food; it’s a vibe. The place has that old-school charm that makes you feel like you’ve gone back in time. They even still call Pibb Extra “Mr. Pibb.” From the smell of burgers sizzling on the grill to the sound of your milkshake blending in the background, it’s the kind of atmosphere you don’t find at most chain spots.

The menu is simple but great. You can grab a Krekelburger as a single, a double, or a triple. It’s made fresh right in front of you on a flat-top grill. The burgers come out hot and juicy, wrapped in that familiar wax paper that has been part of the experience for decades. Fries are crispy and perfectly salty, just the way they should be.

You can’t leave Krekel’s without trying one of their famous milkshakes. This fast-food joint offers a wide variety of flavors. They have everything from the classics—chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry — to more creative options like lemon, banana, marshmallow, and even root beer. They’re creamy and best enjoyed on a summer evening.

Krekel’s has earned fans outside of Decatur. Brennan Kuntsman, a St. Charles resident and Millikin student, says it’s his go-to stop whenever he has friends or family in town. “I take my family and friends when they come down,” Kuntsman says. “When you’re in Chicago, you go to Portillo’s; when you’re in Decatur, you go to Krekel’s.”

Krekel’s currently has six locations across Central Illinois. Krekel’s has remained a local favorite without losing its small-town feel. “It’s great for Millikin students to go to since we have one so close to campus. It’s also pretty affordable for college kids,” Kuntsman says.

And if you're lucky, the location you visit might have its famous Chicken Car. These cars are topped with a giant chicken that has become synonymous with Decatur. It’s one of those things you must see in person. “I’ve seen a picture of the car, but never in person. It would be pretty cool to drive.” Kuntsman says. Locals love it, and visitors can’t resist taking a picture with it.

Whether you’re craving a Krekelburger, a lemon ice cream cone, or just a taste of Decatur tradition, Krekel’s has you covered.