By Alex Patt
When people think of fast-food burger joints, the big names like McDonalds, Burger King, Wendy’s and White Castle come up most often. Those places are affordable and seemingly on every city block in this day and age. However, there are other burger places where one can get quick service but with higher quality.
Many know the deliciousness that is Five Guys Burger and Fries, however there are some that have yet to discover it. The burger joint has been around for over a decade now and I personally only knew about it since 2009. Their locations are growing and are in many areas, though not quite at the numbers of McDonald’s or Burger King. For those who have not experienced Five Guys, it is about time to give it a try. They have some of the best burgers I have ever had.
The menu, though not very large, boasts hamburgers, cheeseburgers and bacon burgers, and you can get a double or single patty. Hot dogs and cheese dogs are also an option, along with grilled cheese and BLT. The fries are a specialty. They are cooked in peanut oil from fresh potatoes shipped to the restaurants every day; there is even a sign letting you know where the day’s potatoes are from. The burgers also have an entire menu of different toppings that can be put on them, from classics like onions and pickles to things like jalapenos and mushrooms. Also found in all of the restaurants are new, state-of-the-art pop machines with touchscreens and numerous options that allow for endless combinations and flavors. Each restaurant also features a box of complementary peanuts for people to munch on while they wait for their food or to compliment their burgers.
All burgers and sandwiches are cooked and made to order, unlike other fast-food restaurants that leave their food sitting out long before they serve it. Once ordered by the customer, the items are placed on the grill. The usual wait time for an order is around five minutes depending on how crowded it is, but it is well-worth the few extra minutes to get the fresh cooked burgers.
The atmosphere has a very positive vibe. The restaurant has a white and red color scheme with light brown tables and chairs. Above the sound of people eating delicious burgers and fries is the classic rock music that is playing in the restaurants which really brings up the mood.
Not enough convincing? Here are just a few quotes from professionals who have tried Five Guys food. It has been called “Heaven on a bun” by the Tampa Tribune in June, 2007. Five Guys was voted as having the best fries by the Roanoke Times. The Washington Post called them the “Willy Wonkas of burger craft” in 2000.
Want to check out this amazing burger craft for yourself? The closest location is in Oak Park on Lake Street and Harlem Avenue, across from the movie theater and Bar Louie.
