Fifty new jobs will come to Eureka with the opening of a new Culver's restaurant, a Wisconsin-headquartered company best known for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard. 

The 3,900 square-foot restaurant is being constructed at 400 Meramec Blvd, in the Shoppes at Hilltop, just off Fifth St.  It is expected to open in early 2011.

This location will be the second restaurant opened by franchise owners Dale and Jessi Hellenbrand, and Dale's parents, Paul and Patti Hellenbrand.

Hellenbrand started as a Culver's employee in 1997, and worked his way to crew trainer, crew chief and then manager. 

Hellenbrand told Eureka board of aldermen that the construction contract "provides for completion within 105 days."

Eureka's planning and zoning commissioners had expressed some concerns about potential traffic issues near the restaurant's corner location at the shopping area.  However, Eureka city attorney Kathy Butler said if traffic problems develop, city officials could require Culver's to correct the situation.

The new restaurant in Eureka will seat a maximum of 89 diners, and include a drive-through service. Offering a combination of fast food and sit-down restaurant, Culver's menu includes pork, fish, fried chicken, salads, sides, kids' meals and speciality sundaes, in addition to burgers and custard.  Items are made-to-order, and are served at tableside.  A Culver's brand of root beer also is offered.

Editor's Note Nov. 13, 2010: We noticed yesterday evening that the concrete walls appear to be going up at the Culver's building already. Framing construction is definitely under way.