Five Guys Burgers & Fries

[strat1117]

Apparently they've been around for quite a while, but I was just introduced to this wondrous attraction. The burgers are delicious and BIG (double is the norm; a single is called a "little"), with all the trimmings you could reasonably want. And then there are the French Fries -- well the French Fries are just spectacular. Fresh cut from what appear to be their own personally grown potatoes (the sacks are all over the place, and there is a whiteboard at the counter to let you know where the potatoes they are frying up that day were grown). Yes, it's fast food, but it is so much better than anything the big chains offer that you really have to try it if there is one near you (assuming, of course, that you like this sort of thing). I sure do. :drool:

Enjoy!

EDIT [as suggested by Mark the Wise]: YMMV

[texasPI]

Neil, i agree. I just was introduced to them myself. They're great!

[ProphetNoir]

Oh Yeah!!!!
They came to New York a couple of years ago shortly after I moved here from DC.
In DC they are legendary. Big, greasy, delicious!

[jazzman]

Perfect beach food.

[Straight Arrow]

Totally agree. 5 Guys is great. All other fast-food burger joints do not exist for me now that I have savored a 5 Guys burger. And yes, the fries are that good x1000.

[homebrewer]

They are excellent burgers, but I'm sad to say that they are a mere shadow of the former Five Guys.... I grew up eating at the original 5 locations in northern VA, and fondly remember the insanity of their burgers. These places were decidedly dives, usually in a seedy part of the industrial parks. Peanut shells on the floor, loud music, and a line always out the door. The buns were made by a small, secret local bakery, and the burgers weren't so much patties, as they were globs of ground beef held together by the cheese. :drool:

That being said, they are still the best around and are worth going just for the obscene amount of fries they throw into the bag when you order a large. Long live the 5 Guys!

[kap49]

I'm originally from the DC area and have been eating at Five Guys in VA and later in MD, for more years than is probably good for me. Absolutely great food.

[ProphetNoir]

I'm originally from the DC area and have been eating at Five Guys in VA and later in MD, for more years than is probably good for me. Absolutely great food.

Anything this good just CAN'T be good for you. :tongue:

[Cmaster03]

According to my wife, they are near us in Raleigh and she likes their burgers. Looks like some 5 Guys is in my future. :biggrin:

[the beav]

We just got one a few weeks ago. I like the burgers, but I find the decor a bit on the sterile and tacky side. At least at our location, the only decor on the walls are posters announcing "Voted best burger in Washington DC, 2007" or something like that, like I'd really care. The self promotion is a little too much for me.

[SpyvSpy]

Best burgers IMO. Got one 2 minutes from my house.

[NightLad]

Hm... must be an American franchise because I've never heard of them.

However, I was recently introduced to M&M Meats vegitarian burgers... AMAZING! Even my meat-obsessed friends love them. So good, and no fatty/greasy residue. Try them out if you are up for something new. :smile:

[Lynchmeister]

The hamburger is quite possibly the world's greatest food. Ok, I take that back...this isn't up for debate...the burger is the world's greatest food.

[rickboone1]

I went there once. Worst burger I have ever had in my entire life. Service was non-existent. I'd written it off for good until I keep hearing everyone else rave about it. My Aunt included. She lives alone, 5 guys feed her. I've decided to give it one more try. One day. But only one more try. I mean, if it's good for Obama...it's got to be good, right?

[strat1117]

We just got one a few weeks ago. I like the burgers, but I find the decor a bit on the sterile and tacky side. At least at our location, the only decor on the walls are posters announcing "Voted best burger in Washington DC, 2007" or something like that, like I'd really care. The self promotion is a little too much for me.


I went there once. Worst burger I have ever had in my entire life. Service was non-existent. I'd written it off for good until I keep hearing everyone else rave about it. My Aunt included. She lives alone, 5 guys feed her. I've decided to give it one more try. One day. But only one more try. I mean, if it's good for Obama...it's got to be good, right?

It's definitely not a place to go for decor or service -- it's a fast food joint, for Pete's sake -- but the burgers are great and the fries are fantastic. I find it hard to believe it was the "Worst burger you ever had in your life," unless you've never eaten fast food at the big chains or something was wrong with the burger you got. I guess one never knows, do one?

[rickboone1]

It's definitely not a place to go for decor or service -- it's a fast food joint, for Pete's sake -- but the burgers are great and the fries are fantastic. I find it hard to believe it was the "Worst burger you ever had in your life," unless you've never eaten fast food at the big chains or something was wrong with the burger you got. I guess one never knows, do one?

I'm going to respectfully disagree. It is my opinion that there is NEVER an excuse for poor service. No matter what industry you work, service should be compromised or weakened.

[dwestenk]

I went there once. Worst burger I have ever had in my entire life. Service was non-existent.

Went to one in Indianapolis and this was my experience exactly. A long wait, a bad burger, tasteless fries, and prices much too high! Never again.

[gone down south]

Every store I've been in has the same decor, a bunch of old reviews and newspaper articles from when they started out in DC and NoVa. Kind of like Subway's subway map wallpaper.

I would give them a second and third chance. Their burgers may not match up to a gourmet kobe slider, say, but for fast food greasy deliciousness there's none better. Maybe the further you get from the mid-Atlantic base the worse they get?

[Abdiel]

I have a five guys near me in SC and one of the best burgers and fries out there.

[strat1117]

I'm going to respectfully disagree. It is my opinion that there is NEVER an excuse for poor service. No matter what industry you work, service should be compromised or weakened.

I don't disagree with you at all. In the one near my house, the service was fine -- they took my order, gave me my food after a relatively short wait, and got everything right, which is all I expected. I didn't mean to imply that you should put up with service that is actually bad, just that you shouldn't expect any more personal service than you get in a normal fast food joint.


Went to one in Indianapolis and this was my experience exactly. A long wait, a bad burger, tasteless fries, and prices much too high! Never again.

I suppose each store has its own operators, for better or worse. This was not my experience at all, and the prices weren't a heck of a lot higher than Burger King. Weird, huh?

[ouch]

Poor service? I thought we covered that already.
http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=46509&highlight=springs1

[Shane]

Five Guys makes a great burger and fries.

[Groundhog]

Five Guys came to Atlanta a couple of years ago and there's several around metro Atlanta. Just like strat1117 said, it's fast food (w/out the drive-thru), but it's definitely pretty good. The burgers are better than I expected, and they're a guilty pleasure for my family from time to time. I mean, any place that you can get grilled onions and A-1 Sauce on a burger is OK by me!

[Hutch1]

We have a number of them in our area, they're ok at best. The burgers are pretty much tasteless. It can be easily topped at home with just some basic seasoning. That's said, it bests the other fast food burger joints in terms of value. The amount of meat you get combined with fresh toppings has the usual suspects beat by a mile.

Two other similar chains are Brown Bag Burger and Fatburger that seem to be making their way around to the same locals at Five Guys. Brown Bag is superior in flavor, and about equal in toppings and condiments. Fatburger has a tastier patty, but the toppings are a half step from BK or the golden arches. All that said, no matter where you live it should be easy to find a better burger in that price range.

[strat1117]

We have a number of them in our area, they're ok at best. The burgers are pretty much tasteless. It can be easily topped at home with just some basic seasoning. That's said, it bests the other fast food burger joints in terms of value. The amount of meat you get combined with fresh toppings has the usual suspects beat by a mile.

Two other similar chains are Brown Bag Burger and Fatburger that seem to be making their way around to the same locals at Five Guys. Brown Bag is superior in flavor, and about equal in toppings and condiments. Fatburger has a tastier patty, but the toppings are a half step from BK or the golden arches. All that said, no matter where you live it should be easy to find a better burger in that price range.

Since there seems to be some confusion:confused:, no one ever suggested that Five Guys is better than a gourmet burger or anything you make at home, just that it's miles beyond the big chains at just about the same price (that, and they have great french fries:biggrin:).

Seems like everything needs splainin' and apologizin' around here lately. Sheesh! :incazzato

[mmack66]

Since there seems to be some confusion:confused:, no one ever suggested that Five Guys is better than a gourmet burger or anything you make at home, just that it's miles beyond the big chains at just about the same price (that, and they have great french fries:biggrin:).

Seems like everything needs splainin' and apologizin' around here lately. Sheesh! :incazzato

Clearly it is the lack of a YMMV in the OP that has caused all the ruckus. Without that disclaimer, statements made in posts are not opinion, but fact. :biggrin:

[Cuttingboard]

I have a five guys across from my house and work...very dangerous. I've never received bad service but maybe that's because the ones I've gone to are self-service. In Northern Virginia, I prefer Ray's Hellburger.

[strat1117]

Clearly it is the lack of a YMMV in the OP that has caused all the ruckus. Without that disclaimer, statements made in posts are not opinion, but fact. :biggrin:

:lol:

You are obviously correct, and I have fixed the problem!

My bad. :blush:

[Abdiel]

One must remember at the heart of it all five guys is a fast food joint. I can buy a burger just about anywhere and make it better at home. The same can be said for fries. And while good service should always be expected I don't expect restaurant grade service at a place with counter service.

It's all about the context. Comparing five guys to a burger at a good sit down restaurant or what you can make at home is like comparing a Honda Civic to a Lexus. Yes, one is clearly better then the other because it is outclassed.

[strat1117]

One must remember at the heart of it all five guys is a fast food joint. I can buy a burger just about anywhere and make it better at home. The same can be said for fries. And while good service should always be expected I don't expect restaurant grade service at a place with counter service.

It's all about the context. Comparing five guys to a burger at a good sit down restaurant or what you can make at home is like comparing a Honda Civic to a Lexus. Yes, one is clearly better then the other because it is outclassed.

:thumbsup:

[thirdeye]

I have to admit that these burgers are on the top ten list of Burger joints I've visited and believe you me I've visited my fair share of them. I would almost say they give Rorke's Steam Cheese Burgers in Middleton CT a run for their money.

[thermographer]

Website says there is one "Coming Soon" to North Little Rock, I'll give it a try the next time I'm over that way.

[The Nid Hog]

Yeah, they're not bad at all--much better than BK or McDonalds. Although my favorite fast food burger joint in the world is Angelo's in Oceanside, CA. Monster Bacon Cheeseburger and Onion Ring Heaven.

[Icemanxxxv]

Peanuts omg more peanuts there burgers aren't bad either. Love 5 GUYS!

[Laz]

They have 2 couple in So Cal. I hope to give them a try sometime. Thanks for the post Neil.

Five Guys Burgers and Fries (http://www.fiveguys.com/home.aspx)

[Ashkii21]

5 guys is good. I wouldn't say no to eating there. But one of my favorite burger places is In-N-Out. A Brown Bag Burger opened up here and I really like those burgers also, probably more than 5 Guys.

[Austin]

You can't beat the fries in the paper bag. I could eat them alone.

[Laz]

5 guys is good. I wouldn't say no to eating there. But one of my favorite burger places is In-N-Out. A Brown Bag Burger opened up here and I really like those burgers also, probably more than 5 Guys.

In-N-Out makes a great burger - had one this afternoon :drool:

[Abdiel]

Never had um.

If I want a burger place with a bigger nicer burger, fuddruckers for me.

[ryanl7640]

Five guys is good, but locally we have "Char-Grill" which is better hands down.

[Jasonian]

It's an atrocity. Of course, YMMV.

I tried it once. Never again.

[Lucius]

I don't get the fuss myself, having had them around now for several years. Better than typical fast food places? Yes. But more expensive and when you factor that in they're probably no better.

They smash the beef down flat with some kind of iron so it cooks fast...and loses all the juices. Then they cook everything well done.

Edible? Yes. Good? Possibly. Delicious? Absolutely not.

[FiXXXer]

I've never heard of them, but I just did a search and apparently there are several locations not too far from me, including Patriot Place, which I've been to several times and never noticed it. I guess I'll have to try it out next time I'm near there!

[rtaylor61]

On a scale of 1-10, I give them a 0. At work we have ordered from all 3 different locations here in SLC, and they have yet to get one order right. The first order was missing 1/3 of our order even though we paid for a full order. The other two locations managed to screw up the order and omit items that were ordered. Missing items and burgers garnished incorrectly just doesn't make sense. I know these folks aren't getting paid megabucks, but making a burger is not rocket science. I'll stick with burgers like I made tonight. 3 oz patties cooked to medium, cheese and served on a toasted english muffin. Garnished with ketchup, mustard, sauteed onions and mushrooms, topped with bacon.

Randy

[strat1117]

On a scale of 1-10, I give them a 0. At work we have ordered from all 3 different locations here in SLC, and they have yet to get one order right. The first order was missing 1/3 of our order even though we paid for a full order. The other two locations managed to screw up the order and omit items that were ordered. Missing items and burgers garnished incorrectly just doesn't make sense. I know these folks aren't getting paid megabucks, but making a burger is not rocket science. I'll stick with burgers like I made tonight. 3 oz patties cooked to medium, cheese and served on a toasted english muffin. Garnished with ketchup, mustard, sauteed onions and mushrooms, topped with bacon.

Randy

No one is comparing them to homemade; just to the big chains. :smile:

Anyway, I can't believe this thread is still alive and kicking. This is by far the most mileage I've ever gotten out of an $8 lunch! :laugh:

I'll have to go back this weekend!

[bob.e]

I went to 5 guys and found it not too bad here in utah the Greek community dominates the local hamburger scene and the big thing here are pastrami burgers to die for, but if you want a real hamburger treat try Smash Burger a chain out of Colorado there fries are to die for (they come drizzled with olive oil and rosemary) as well as there onion threads and killer burgers to boot

[FiXXXer]

My girlfriend and I went to the one in Patriot Place (next to Gillette Stadium) tonight, and it was probably the best "fast food" burger I've had. The fries are some of the best I've had anywhere, fast food or otherwise.

[mmack66]

It would appear that there is no middle ground with this place.

[OldSaw]

These pics are from my visit to Five Guys with my nephew in Stafford, VA.

69072

69073

69074

It was a pretty decent burger and the fries were good and greasy.

[Vulcanus]

I love their burgers and fries. Very delicious!

[gone down south]

Sounds like the East Coast location are a hit, and everywhere else a miss.

[strat1117]

Sounds like the East Coast location are a hit, and everywhere else a miss.

Good call! I wonder why that would be? (Boy, am I asking for trouble with that one!!) :w00t:

[Groundhog]

Good call! I wonder why that would be? (Boy, am I asking for trouble with that one!!) :w00t:

Might be a simple explanation..........the further away geographically from the original (D.C.), the franchises quality seems to suffer????

[gone down south]

Maybe different management in different regions?

[strat1117]

Might be a simple explanation..........the further away geographically from the original (D.C.), the franchises quality seems to suffer????


Maybe different management in different regions?

It's got to be, because the negative reaction from some of the posters is so vehement and so different than my own personal experience, that they simply can't be referring to the same place.

(Although I note that few, if any, of the really negative posters compared Five Guys to other fast food chains, which was the original premise. The comparisons to home cooking or sit down restaurants are, in their best light, totally unfair.)

[Monkeydad]

Maybe different management in different regions?

Has to be. I ate at Five Guys yesterday and again loved it, especially the fries.

I ordered the "regular" (small) fries and it looked like they filled up the cup with fries, dumped them in the bag and refilled the cup. I had a whole bag of fries for the price of a cup...plus a cheeseburger. :w00t:

[Kouros]

The best burgers taste best medium rare. Five Guys only serves theirs well done. An average burger at best.

[strat1117]

The best burgers taste best medium rare. Five Guys only serves theirs well done. An average burger at best.

I would never eat a burger medium rare in any restaurant, no less a fast food joint.

[TimMechEngr]

The best burgers taste best medium rare. Five Guys only serves theirs well done. An average burger at best.

:eek::eek::eek: I love my steaks medium rare, but never a hamburger! Never pork, never chicken, and especially never fish (No Sushi for me)!

[WhosYerBob]

Five Guys is our standard now as well.

By the way, they don't grown their own potatoes - they just point out where they come from - which is usually the southeast section of Idaho, a few miles from my hometown.

[strat1117]

Five Guys is our standard now as well.

By the way, they don't grown their own potatoes - they just point out where they come from - which is usually the southeast section of Idaho, a few miles from my hometown.

Just got back from a Five Guys run (my son wanted to go there after his SAT). My cheeseburger with grilled onions, mushrooms and jalapenos was just exactly perfect, as was the large order of fries which the three of us couldn't finish.

There must be something to this east coast/west coast thing, because I just can't imagine what the naysayers could have experienced that was so bad (again, as long as we keep the comparison fair -- it is a great fast food joint, not a gourmet restaurant).

BTW, the fries today were from Paco(?), Washington.

Yummmmm. :thumbup1:

[Kouros]

:eek::eek::eek: I love my steaks medium rare, but never a hamburger! Never pork, never chicken, and especially never fish (No Sushi for me)!

A well done burger is a hockey puck. Freshly ground meat does not need to be cooked well done since the inside has not had exposure to bacteria in the air.

[the beav]

FYI to Five Guys fans:

Worst Plain Cheeseburger
Five Guys Cheeseburger (plain)
840 calories
55 g fat (22.5 g saturated)
1,050 mg sodium

Even if you get the regular (i.e., bi-pattied) cheeseburger naked, you’ll still be taking in more than 250 calories and 20 grams of fat extra over the seemingly decadent bacon and sauteed mushroom burger. That’s because what Five Guys calls a “Little Burger,” healthy people call a “normal burger.” Plus, if you limit yourself to a single beef patty, you can get away with a couple of indulgent toppings like cheese or bacon.

http://health.yahoo.com/experts/eatthis/39713/6-worst-fast-food-burgers-and-what-you-should-eat-instead/

[JPM]

FYI to Five Guys fans:

Worst Plain Cheeseburger
Five Guys Cheeseburger (plain)
840 calories
55 g fat (22.5 g saturated)
1,050 mg sodium

Even if you get the regular (i.e., bi-pattied) cheeseburger naked, you’ll still be taking in more than 250 calories and 20 grams of fat extra over the seemingly decadent bacon and sauteed mushroom burger. That’s because what Five Guys calls a “Little Burger,” healthy people call a “normal burger.” Plus, if you limit yourself to a single beef patty, you can get away with a couple of indulgent toppings like cheese or bacon.

http://health.yahoo.com/experts/eatthis/39713/6-worst-fast-food-burgers-and-what-you-should-eat-instead/

I saw that article too and after reading it, I ask myself why I look at things like that. I know it is good information, but it kind of sucks the life out of a little enjoyment. Of course, I indulge in burgers as a once in a while treat, not an everyday meal.

Ah well, the FDA should just come out with an announcement, "After extensive testing, it has been determined that living will eventually kill you". :lol:

[Navig8tor]

Let's do the math.

2 hours of shovelling snow = 1 cheeseburger + fries

Sounds like a good plan for the afternoon.

[the beav]

I saw that article too and after reading it, I ask myself why I look at things like that. I know it is good information, but it kind of sucks the life out of a little enjoyment. Of course, I indulge in burgers as a once in a while treat, not an everyday meal.

Ah well, the FDA should just come out with an announcement, "After extensive testing, it has been determined that living will eventually kill you". :lol:

I like Five Guys but I always get the Little Cheeseburger--same taste with (probably) half the calories. That saves calories for the fries and coke. :thumbup:

[Sullybob]

I tried the 5 Guys in Austin. Complete let down, not good at all. The burgers were edible the fries were not.

I have not eaten at a BK or McDonalds in years so I can't compare 5 Guys to them. I have eaten at a Jack in the Box, Wendy's and Carls Jr this year, and they are all superior to 5 Guys.

We have several nice hamburger joints nearby, Moonies and Mighty Fine Burgers and Fries are both really good.

[troy1979]

fry's are good , but the one i went to north of Tampa Fl the cook used a bacon iron on the hamburger it was dry like leather not juicy.

[tsutte01]

I tried my first 5 Guy's a couple months ago. They were pretty good. Although, coming from So. Cal. I am still partial to In & Out Burgers.

[Mr. Imperial]

I've never had a problem at 5 Guys, though the two I've frequented are in Lexington, KY and Rochester, NY.

[JPM]

I tried my first 5 Guy's a couple months ago. They were pretty good. Although, coming from So. Cal. I am still partial to In & Out Burgers.

Gotta love In & Out.

[jchennav]

I'd say Five Guys competes more with Fatburger than In-N-Out or other fast food restaurants.

I just wish the fries at Five Guys are available in smaller sizes.

[craig87c]

I just wish the fries at Five Guys are available in smaller sizes.


BLASPHEMER! :001_rolle

[rollsrook]

We have two Five Guys in my area....Good service and good burgers. I'm not a big fries guy and I'd rather have 2 burgers and skip the fries and soda.

Supposedly they're know for their hot dogs as well. Has anyone ever had one? No mention in the four pages so far.

[watchhillian]

The food is pretty much what you'd expect from a niche fast food place, tastey and on the expensive side, but not too bad. I've got to shake my head at the people keeping these franchises in business. That would mean regular traffic, not the every-once-and-a whilers like the posters on this thread. 5 Guys isn't doing any favors to the health movement, which the US as a whole needs, what with the obesity rate here. Therefore, while I have been to see what all the hub bub is about, I'm ethically opposed to what they're doing, especially because it's a franchise. If it was just one store, I can see the point, but it isn't. They are pandering to America's inability to control itself. Just saying...

[Monkeydad]

The food is pretty much what you'd expect from a niche fast food place, tastey and on the expensive side, but not too bad. I've got to shake my head at the people keeping these franchises in business. That would mean regular traffic, not the every-once-and-a whilers like the posters on this thread. 5 Guys isn't doing any favors to the health movement, which the US as a whole needs, what with the obesity rate here. Therefore, while I have been to see what all the hub bub is about, I'm ethically opposed to what they're doing, especially because it's a franchise. If it was just one store, I can see the point, but it isn't. They are pandering to America's inability to control itself. Just saying...

No one is forcing fat people to eat there every day. I do not blame the business for the sins of the customers. :wink2:

[strat1117]

The food is pretty much what you'd expect from a niche fast food place, tastey and on the expensive side, but not too bad. I've got to shake my head at the people keeping these franchises in business. That would mean regular traffic, not the every-once-and-a whilers like the posters on this thread. 5 Guys isn't doing any favors to the health movement, which the US as a whole needs, what with the obesity rate here. Therefore, while I have been to see what all the hub bub is about, I'm ethically opposed to what they're doing, especially because it's a franchise. If it was just one store, I can see the point, but it isn't. They are pandering to America's inability to control itself. Just saying...

Personally, I think that . . .

Never mind. :nonod:

[mstorm22]

Had it one time on vacation and I was hooked. Free peanuts!

[Greyfox]

When I eat a burger 5 guys is where I want it from.

[Philadelph]

I haven't ever been there- I'm going to try to go in Connecticut next time I'm there (none near me)... BUT the best fast food burger I've ever had (and I tend to hate fast food- would rather starve than go to McD's) is In-N-Out burger. I wish I lived in CA just so I could be near one. Their business model of having everything made fresh daily in addition to their cheap prices and the fact that they can never have a location further than X miles from their base or meat distributor or whatever makes them fantastic. It ensures their food will always be fresh and cheap. That's probably where 5 Guys went wrong- they started franchising.

[jherm77]

The food is pretty much what you'd expect from a niche fast food place, tastey and on the expensive side, but not too bad. I've got to shake my head at the people keeping these franchises in business. That would mean regular traffic, not the every-once-and-a whilers like the posters on this thread. 5 Guys isn't doing any favors to the health movement, which the US as a whole needs, what with the obesity rate here. Therefore, while I have been to see what all the hub bub is about, I'm ethically opposed to what they're doing, especially because it's a franchise. If it was just one store, I can see the point, but it isn't. They are pandering to America's inability to control itself. Just saying...

Well said. :thumbup:

[system60]

Gotta love In & Out.

Personally between 5guys, In n Out, Fatburger

5guys > Fatburger > In n Out.

But In n Out is a decent amount cheaper than the other 2.

[Kouros]

Maybe I've eaten too many $12 hamburgers in my life, but this stuff tastes like grease.

[eyebright]

I live in the D.C. area and they are all over the place. The portions are huge and all "extras" on the burger are included in the price, whatever combination you choose. At the ones I've seen, there is no table service; you place your order, pay, and wait to be called. Preparation times weren't particularly long either of the times I've gone there, but I wasn't in a hurry, either. The regular french fries were exceptionally greasy (Wrong oil temps? Potatoes with a too high sugar content? Too much retained water?). The Cajun fries I tried the next time were much better. Nothing to write home about, but better than most fast food.

[Slack]

I went to Five Guys in Richmond and B-Burg and was disappointed both times. I think it was built up so much that I was expecting the burger to end all burgers. Don't get me wrong, it was a decent burger however there are much better (local) places out there. To name a few in NoVA:

Joe's Burgers - McLean, VA - expensive but worth it
Rhodeside Grill - Arlington, VA - great bar burger
Ray's Hell Burger - Arlington, VA - always packed, go on off hours

[Barbash]

The burgers are great, but I go for their fries.

[kwigibocity]

Found it better than any McD/BK/Hardee's offering, but perhaps not any better than the higher-quality Wendy's choices.

All of which pale to me by comparison the the In N Out. Never visit CA without stopping in...I am always impressed by how fresh, cold, and crisp the lettuce is on the burger EVERY TIME, and that's something I NEVER find at other ubiquitous burger joints. You can always hear the In N Out lettuce.

That Yahoo article lists an 'eat this instead' for BK as the tenderloin chicken sandwich...I don't know about you all, but when I want a burger I'm not eating chicken.

[Zenas]

I had one when I went up to Nashville in May last year. I have been wanting another one ever since. I live in SW Tennessee and they don't have a store anywhere close. I have been contemplating making a pilgrimage to Nashvegas for the purpose of getting a 5-Guys burger and a haircut/shave from the totally sweet barbershop that's 5 stores down in the same shopping center.

[Amer]

I've not had one but they recently opened several Five Guys around St. Louis. As far as I've heard they've all been panned. My favorite burgers are still getting a triple at Steak N Shake or Culver's.

[Zenas]

I have always loved SteaknShake. That said, 5 Guys beats the pants off SteaknShake.

[strat1117]

I've not had one but they recently opened several Five Guys around St. Louis. As far as I've heard they've all been panned. My favorite burgers are still getting a triple at Steak N Shake or Culver's.


I have always loved SteaknShake. That said, 5 Guys beats the pants off SteaknShake.

It seems to continue to hold true that the further away you get from the east coast epicenter of Five Guys, the worse the food. But, here on sunny LI, where we have no In 'N Out for competition, they are just great!

[mretzloff]

Which burgers and toppings do you guys usually get? I love their fries, but I have not found a burger that I actually love.

[Featherweight]

I got a couple of cheeseburgers at 5 Guys once, along with their heaping fries. The fries were great. The burgers . . . eh.

[Monkeydad]

My wife suggested we go there over the weekend. Took our son (two years old and has milk allergy) and got him a hot dog and fries. He loved it and so did we. I had a double patty cheeseburger with some ketchup and hot sauce. They loaded it up with hot sauce the way I like it...Frank's Red Hot, one of my favorites.

Their service is great too...the employees are so welcoming and check up on you, despite not using waiters.

[Storer50]

Tried the one by the Dayton Mall Saturday. Far from impressed. In fact, couldn't be more disappointed. The burgers were bland and the fries lacked any sort of peanut flavor even though they were supposedly fried in peanut oil.

[Monkeydad]

Tried the one by the Dayton Mall Saturday. Far from impressed. In fact, couldn't be more disappointed. The burgers were bland and the fries lacked any sort of peanut flavor even though they were supposedly fried in peanut oil.

I've never had that experience. Must be bad employees.

[Sterling Cooper]

I've tried both Lincoln Park locations in Chicago and haven't been impressed. Better burgers at a lot of indy joints for less money. Getting an extra pound of fries in my bag really doesn't add any value since I'm not going to eat all of them anyway.

Now, if we could only get an In-Out-Burger in Chicago! Those are some tasty burgers.

[craig87c]

Those are some tasty burgers.

What about a Big Kahuna Burger? This guy Jules keeps recommending them. That and some weird Valley of Death stuff.

[Go West Young Man]

The answer seems to be that if you can't see the Atlantic Ocean, don't go into that Five Guys!

[shmeegs]

The service in the one near me wasn't great, but the product was worth the wait. Sizes are huge. And with the multitude of condiments you can put on it, I never leave hungry.

[Uncle Erik]

Five Guys opened an outlet in Carson, CA, just a little south of Los Angeles.

I go there now and then - they make a pretty good burger and I like their fries.

Unfortunately, they're just OK compared to other LA offerings. I am (of course) a fan of In'n'Out, but am devoted to The Habit, Tommy's and the sublime Apple Pan.

[Snappy Lunch]

Anything this good just CAN'T be good for you. :tongue:
5 guys is the best. My Doc disagrees, but what the heck, the wifey says I never listen to him anyway.

[mwhals]

We were introduced to them when we visited our friends in Connecticut. There is one near where I live and I can't wait to visit it.

Mark

[DizzyArnaz]

Never had um.

If I want a burger place with a bigger nicer burger, fuddruckers for me.

All the Fuddruckers locations in Ohio went out of business. This makes me a sad panda. I have no idea how that place failed.

Five Guys is a delicious, albeit pricey substitute.

[Monkeydad]

All the Fuddruckers locations in Ohio went out of business. This makes me a sad panda. I have no idea how that place failed.

Five Guys is a delicious, albeit pricey substitute.

Pricing I suppose, the food is amazing.

They opened up a NEW Fudd's in my town last year. Sorry, that was mean to tell you.

[thecoalition]

when i used to work at a big name electronics retailer - i worked with a guy who loved this place as much as i did. our boss kept giving us the shaft on schedule and we worked the closing shift everyday for 14 days straight. during this time, said other guy didn't ever want to drive to pick up food so he bought this 14 days in a row and paid for mine as long as i went to pick it up and bring it back.
needless to say i had it for 14 days straight...and i would do it again. i frequent the one near me so often that i can say "the usual" and 4/5 of the cashiers know it. sad...but yummy.

and no im not fat.

[JPM]

Tried 5 guys for the first time while on a business trip in South Carolina. Burger was ok, not impressed with the fries. Give me In N Out anyday.

[jpadilla88]

Sounds like the equivalent to California's In n Out Burgers, they are delicious!

[Antique Hoosier]

I'm enjoying a grilled Kosher Hot Dog at Five Guys this very moment. Try one here, it is a treat!

[Kouros]

I'm enjoying a grilled Kosher Hot Dog at Five Guys this very moment. Try one here, it is a treat!

It is not Kosher. It is Kosher style.:biggrin1:

[strat1117]

It is not Kosher. It is Kosher style.:biggrin1:

Me too. :biggrin:

[Antique Hoosier]

It is not Kosher. It is Kosher style.:biggrin1:

I stand corrected. I think I might style one tonight. (and maybe a burger too!)

[craig87c]

I had it on Easter. Cheeseburger with fries.

I'd given up deep-fried foods for Lent (and soda!), and found that I've kinda lost my taste for them. I ate about 6 french fries out of the 3.4 metric tons of fries they gave me.

The burger? Overcooked, too greasy, and kinda tasteless. Total contrast to the other couple of times I'd gone. I'll go back some other time because I think that giving up the foods had thrown me off everything.

[Kouros]

I'll take a Peter Luger burger with bacon:

[kg4ghn]

Our local 5 guys is great!

The first time I went there, I looked at the prices and about walked out. I went ahead and ordered and :w00t: at the goodness. I also love the cajun fries, and they do give you a ridiculous amount. Me and my wife go there and get "little" burgers and share a "regular" fry.

Mmmmm greasy bacony goodness. :001_tt2:

[dreadpirate]

I like 5 Guys, esp. the peanuts.

[Gammon]

All the Fuddruckers locations in Ohio went out of business. This makes me a sad panda. I have no idea how that place failed.


I feel your pain. The Fuddruckers all but next door is the only reason I can't be bothered to try the Five Guys near me. I've thought about it several times, but, no. There's a Fuddruckers practically next door. I mean, it's Fuddruckers.

For some reason chain restaurants that fail everywhere else make it good round here. They're building new Rocky Rococo's all the time here. Guess I live in Food Heaven.:biggrin1:

BTW, I was at a Fuddruckers in Ohio last year. Wait no, it was just over the Kentucky border..

[rvargas]

Personally between 5guys, In n Out, Fatburger

5guys > Fatburger > In n Out.

But In n Out is a decent amount cheaper than the other 2.

Five guys is ok for a fast food burger:

Personally, In n Out > 5guys > Fatburger.

[rvargas]

I'll take a Peter Luger burger with bacon:

Now that is a burger. :thumbup1:

But you really can't compare a $5 fast food burger to the real thing.

[Lulus_Dad]

I'm originally from the DC area and have been eating at Five Guys in VA and later in MD, for more years than is probably good for me. Absolutely great food.

I grew up in the NOVA suburbs and left in 1972, so Five Guys in new to me. My family is still there and I visit every now and then. Where are the locations, in the Alexandria area? Thanks.

[kraigory]

Mmmmmm, yes. They've come down to St. Louis and blessed us with their presence. Best. Burger. Ever.

And, I love their hot dogs too.

[Gammon]

Walked past it again the other day.. On the way to Rocky Rococo. Didn't even consider stopping. The burgers didn't even look as good as Steak & Shake. And, I still can't waste my time going to 5Gyes when Fuddruckers is on the way..

:001_cool:Rocky Rococo... Pizza Amoré!:001_cool::laugh:

[Nozzlejocky]

Recently had one open up around here, but haven't tried it. After reading the posts, I definitely will. Although I try to watch what I eat, a good burger is the cat's meow now and then.

[OldSaw]

I tried to buy shares of stock in Five Guys the other day, but it is not publicly traded.

[strat1117]

I am overdue for a Five Guys run.

Tomorrow for lunch I think I will treat myself to a large order of fries, with a side of double bacon cheeseburger.

:drool:

[Romanster]

Just had Five Guys for lunch. IT ROCKS! A great treat for a Friday!

[Lynchmeister]

Anyone ever had a SmashBurger? I've never had Five Guys, but recently had my first SmashBurger and was completely blown away.

[kg4ghn]

April 30 they shut down my local Five Guys. :c17:

I don't know why, they were a little expensive but everytime I ever went there there was plenty of people in there. It was my favorite local burger joint.

[Storer50]

Anyone ever had a SmashBurger? I've never had Five Guys, but recently had my first SmashBurger and was completely blown away.

Ate there last weekend. By far better than Five Guys

[JohnnySideStreet]

Mmmm, one of my favorite burger places to goto, their cajun fries are excellent also.

I don't know if this article has been posted before, but it's a great look inside the company.

http://www.inc.com/magazine/20100401/jerry-murrell-five-guys-burgers-and-fries.html

[FLTiger]

I've sworn off big burgers for awhile...at least until I drop another 20 pounds.

[W_B_K]

Tried them a few weeks back but I really wasn't impressed. The burger was good but far from great. I've had better at Red Robin and other places. The fries were good though!

[Featherweight]

To me Five Guys was a disappointment because I was expecting a really good, above-average sized burger with fresh toppings and an exceptional bun.

Instead I got a cheap-looking, smushed patty that I could barely see, under some iceberg lettuce, a few slices of onion and what passed as tomato, all between those cheap grocery store burger buns that are like $1 a bag.

For the money, it was a joke, I could have gotten the same thing at McDonald's, and to be honest I can make a better burger myself.

The fries were quite good, however. But how hard is it to make good fries? They were on par with plenty of restaurants I'd eaten at.

Five Guys = Overrated IMHO.

[plexibass]

We have a five Guys and a Boardwalk Burger about 2 miles from my house. I like the fries at Boardwalk better but I like the burgers at 5 Guys better.

[insomniac]

Overrated. The burger was OK, but I've had better around here, especially from the smaller joints that specialize in burgers. I didn't think they were that special.

The fries were good, and you got a lot of them. But this is supposed to be a burger joint, not a french fry joint.

No real desire to go back.

[Matt S]

To me Five Guys was a disappointment because I was expecting a really good, above-average sized burger with fresh toppings and an exceptional bun.

Instead I got a cheap-looking, smushed patty that I could barely see, under some iceberg lettuce, a few slices of onion and what passed as tomato, all between those cheap grocery store burger buns that are like $1 a bag.

For the money, it was a joke, I could have gotten the same thing at McDonald's, and to be honest I can make a better burger myself.

The fries were quite good, however. But how hard is it to make good fries? They were on par with plenty of restaurants I'd eaten at.

Five Guys = Overrated IMHO.

Agree. I've never been too impressed. When I moved to the DC metro area in 2006, my co-workers talked about the place like it was the Mecca of the burger world. I don't think it is bad, just not better than anything else. Personally, I think Fuddruckers is just as good and my own is better.

Maybe its also because I am not a huge french fry guy. A lot of people are crazy for the fries at Five Guys.

[p.m.a.]

I like Foster's Grille better than Five Guys.

[Matt S]

I like Foster's Grille better than Five Guys.

I've heard good things about Foster's, but never remember to try it out sometime. Big burgers aren't something I eat often, so when I do, I usually don't stray from what I know.

[Shave A Buck]

They are good but not for me. Too greasy and guilty.

[Randy Watson]

A Smashburger just opened here in Lex-Vegas and it's always packed, so now it's a little easier to get in and out of Five Guys.

[Mic360]

I went there for lunch a few weeks ago and I was really dissapointed. The price for a double cheese burger, fries and drink was outrageous.

[The Nid Hog]

Never tried Five Guys before, but I stopped at one in Northern VA with my daughter last week. I am sold! The burgers were delicious and the fries were insane. Our regular (small?) sized order was gigantic. I barely made a dent in it. Next time a burger craving strikes, we'll try the one nearby.

[maj3289]

absolutely one of the best in the DMV:thumbup:

[masonjarjar]

They are in Ohio now. We tried them out and unfortunately we probably won't go back. :thumbdown There are plenty of places around town that have them beat hands down on quality, value and variety.

[Monkeydad]

Never tried Five Guys before, but I stopped at one in Northern VA with my daughter last week. I am sold! The burgers were delicious and the fries were insane. Our regular (small?) sized order was gigantic. I barely made a dent in it. Next time a burger craving strikes, we'll try the one nearby.

Absolutely true about the fries. I order a small fry and they not only load up the cup, but put about another entire order's worth of fries in the bottom of the bag too. A small fry is enough for me, my wife and my 2 YO son to all share.

They're delicious too.

[TimmyBoston]

This was mentioned in an article in USA Today today, a Five Guys Burger and Fries has over 2300 calories and several days worth of saturated fat.

[The Nid Hog]

This was mentioned in an article in USA Today today, a Five Guys Burger and Fries has over 2300 calories and several days worth of saturated fat.

I don't doubt it. It's like a whole sack of potatoes fried up in a gallon of peanut oil.

[Kouros]

a Five Guys Burger and Fries has over 2300 calories and several days worth of saturated fat.

Yet it's not even worth it...

[Monkeydad]

This was mentioned in an article in USA Today today, a Five Guys Burger and Fries has over 2300 calories and several days worth of saturated fat.

2300 is tough to believe.

[xjrob85]

I'm not a fan. The burgers are pretty good, and their fries are ok, but I always leave with a funny aftertaste that I don't like. It's hard to describe, but it is almost like a raw, dry mouth. I've encountered this same funny aftertaste with highly processed foods loaded with MSG. I know 5 Guys is supposed to be all natural, but maybe it is due to something else I haven't considered. Anyway, I try to avoid the place.

[Kouros]

I'm not a fan. The burgers are pretty good, and their fries are ok, but I always leave with a funny aftertaste that I don't like.

Its the metallic aftertaste of MSG attempting to replicate the flavor of dry aged beef and it just doesn't work.

[Rughi]

2300 is tough to believe.

Probably because it's really 1/2 that. The standard burger with the "serving" 1/2 order of fries is about 1010. Double up on everything (Supersize Me!) and/or use obscene amounts of toppings and you can easily get to 2300.

http://www.fiveguys.net/files/files/NutritionalInfo_2009.pdf

Roger

[Lulus_Dad]

I've never had the 5 Guys experience even though I go back to the DC area to visit family now and then. We don't have one here in southern Louisiana, so I won't have a chance to try one until we go north this coming Christmas. From what's been written here, though, I'm thinking that the very small Backyard Burger chain probably makes a far, far better sandwich.

http://backyardburgers.com/

[Monkeydad]

I'm not a fan. The burgers are pretty good, and their fries are ok, but I always leave with a funny aftertaste that I don't like. It's hard to describe, but it is almost like a raw, dry mouth. I've encountered this same funny aftertaste with highly processed foods loaded with MSG. I know 5 Guys is supposed to be all natural, but maybe it is due to something else I haven't considered. Anyway, I try to avoid the place.

Could be the peanut oil.

[maj3289]

The broiler

[Lulus_Dad]

Could be the peanut oil.

I thought everyone knew Peanut Oil is the only way to cook fries properly.

[Kouros]

I thought everyone knew Peanut Oil is the only way to cook fries properly.

Tallow is the only way to cook fries properly.

[DFrancis]

Yes, I'm bumping the Five Guys thread. They opened their first one in the city in the last month or so and I love it. I love the freshness of everything and you can tell they treat their employees well because they all seemed very happy to be at work. SWMBO was thrilled with amount of mushrooms they put on their burgers too, enough to make another patty. :thumbup1: Oh and to me the fries tasted very much of potato skins.

[craig87c]

And the best thing about Darren bumping this thread? His signature:

"Why go out for hamburger when you can have steak at home?" - Paul Newman

[DFrancis]

And the best thing about Darren bumping this thread? His signature:

"Why go out for hamburger when you can have steak at home?" - Paul Newman

:lol: Nice catch, i wasn't thinking of that.

[thunder54]

I ate at a 5 Guys here in the KC area not too long ago. Remember it is a burger place not fine dining. I enjoyed my burger and fries when I was there. Heard about another place close by the 5 Guys called Smashburger. Really was not impressed with Smashburger at all. Tried to hard to look upscale. C'mon it is a burger place.

[malargent]

They opened one of these next to the Michigan State University campus a couple of months ago and everyone was pretty excited about them. Finally got there a couple of weeks ago and was suitably impressed. If you're aching for a decent sloppy burger, this is a good place to go.

[Lynchmeister]

I was in Boulder back in November on a business trip and drove by a Five Guys (actually...it may have been Longmont...), but did not stop. Just found out they're shipping me back for a few days in March, so I'll have to make an effort to stop and compare them to my beloved Smashburger.

[Shel]

I recently tried their burger and it's pretty good. You "customize it" with a choice of a number of toppings. Short wait, tasty food and lots of cholesterol. What else can we ask for in life?

[denver]

I love their burgers! Plus the fries are cut fresh and you can enjoy some peanuts while you wait. A winning combination in my book!

[Jethro1984]

I LOVE Five Guys. The Burgers are always perfectly cooked and the Cajun Fries are to die for. I also love the fact that there is consistency from restaurant to restaurant. I have eaten at a Five Guys in several locations around Florida and the burgers always come out great.

The floor is always so greasy too that I can feel my feet sliding around while i'm trying to stand at the counter or soda tap.

[LuckyR]

The way I describe Five Guys, is that they make burgers like people make in their back yard on the grill, handmade and never frozen ingredients.

[Relayer56]

On a scale of 1-10, I'd give my local 5 Guys (burgers and fries) about a 6

(McDonald's = 3)

[Blue Raccoon]

5 Guys are above avg.. but, I would rather have the Steak and Shake double cheese, shoestring fries and choc shake!

[xjrob85]

On a scale of 1-10, I'd give my local 5 Guys (burgers and fries) about a 6

(McDonald's = 3)

I agree with your rating of 5 Guys.

I would probably rate McD's a little lower though. Maybe a 2?

[mretzloff]

I would probably rate McD's a little lower though. Maybe a 2?

I would not even call McDonald's a burger place. Their signature burger has more bread than meat :confused1

[tortswon]

I'm with you mretzloff. McDonalds has pretty much descended to inedible. Even the fries, which used to come to you reliably hot and crisp have become inconsistent. I have also recently seen a decline in the quality of the burgers at Wendy's which used to be juicy and now are dry enough to be used as mousepads. Best, Sam

[ouch]

I'm with you mretzloff. McDonalds has pretty much descended to inedible. Even the fries, which used to come to you reliably hot and crisp have become inconsistent.

The Mickey D's french fry problem can be explained with the same one word answer that explains the decline of many high end British shaving soaps:

tallow

[ackvil]

The Mickey D's french fry problem can be explained with the same one word answer that explains the decline of many high end British shaving soaps:

tallow

Yep, the food police have pressure Mickey Ds and they caved in.

[craig87c]

I had Five Guys for the second time on Saturday. The burger was much improved over the first time, but the fries were awful. So far, this place can't get both fries and burgers right on the same try.

If the burgers stay as good as they were Saturday, I'm just going to get an extra burger instead an order of fries!

[Brush_with_Fame]

I think it's pretty sad when "okay' burgers become the bar.
(ie 5 Guys, Steak and Shake)

there a dive bar around the corner from me,
Valenica Tavern in Huntington, Long Island
their burgers are $2 (!),
and they only buy enough fresh meat
each morning from the local butcher to last them thru lunch, about 1pm.

only burger i ever had that was almost as good (at a restaurant) was at Prune,
in the east village. and that was $18...

however, a Sh!t Shack (or is is Shake?) just opened near my parents at 86th n 3rd...
heard great things. have absolutely no faith.

wannem good at home? mix in 1/3 rd lamb!

[mme29710]

5 Guys is good for a quick greasy burger fix. I have better and I have had worse. BTW - DYK Phil Mickelson owns the rights to 5 guys franchises in Orange County CA.

[Kouros]

My favorite has always been Donovan's Pub in Queens NY. Fresh ground burgers and fresh cut fries. Always voted top burger in NYC:

[xjrob85]

Oh my gosh that looks so dang good! I shouldn't look at that picture when I am hungry. I want one right now! How far is New York from Salt Lake City anyway? :w00t:

[Jethro1984]

As I've said before, I LOVE 5 Guys Burgers. But if you want a real durned good burger go to Outback Steakhouse and have their burger...Holy Kamoly!

[Presbyteros]

The burgers are terrific, and they have malt vinegar for the fries.

[goatee]

burgers are good. im not sold on the fries tho... maybe its the peanut oil they cook them in???

[bluepunk18]

Love that place! There is one in Keene, NH, and its just great! Friendly folks, quick service and amazing burgers and fries! When that's pretty much all that's on the menu, you know its good.

[Kouros]

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers just opened near me. There is a line out the door everyday. It puts Five Guys to shame.

[DFrancis]

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers just opened near me. There is a line out the door everyday. It puts Five Guys to shame.

I miss Red Robin, i used to go all the time in Uni, baskets of unlimited fries.

[beachape]

Went there once. It was pretty expensive compared to your average fast food place, but I was impressed. I like the no frills, incredibly unhealthy idea. Got a burger and fries to go. The paper bag was almost entirely translucent by the time I got home.

[TheShaun]

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers just opened near me. There is a line out the door everyday. It puts Five Guys to shame.

Get the Royal Red Robin. You won't regret it. What's better than a bacon cheese burger with a fried egg on it?

[mikey]

Sorry folks but nothing comes close to an In-N-Out burger (and fries).

Thanks,
Mike

[Laz]

Some more have opened out her in So Cal, so I will give em a try sometime this summer.

[M80]

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers just opened near me. There is a line out the door everyday. It puts Five Guys to shame.

I had the worst burger I have ever had at a Red Robin.

[Trumanj]

Sorry folks but nothing comes close to an In-N-Out burger (and fries).

Thanks,
Mike

So wrong...In-n-out is my least favorite non-national chain. Mighty Fine, Five Guys, Smash Burger, Shake Shack, Whataburger, braums, all make in-n-out look bad. Just because it is from California doesn't make it good.

Plus how can you call fries "fries" if they are not fried?

[JeffM]

I just go there for the P-E-A-N-U-T-S. I didn't realize you could get burgers too!

[Go West Young Man]

Sorry folks but nothing comes close to an In-N-Out burger (and fries).

Thanks,
Mike

That's a completely different category of fastfood, you can't really compare the two.

[Altair]

Sorry folks but nothing comes close to an In-N-Out burger (and fries).

Thanks,
Mike

I agree 100% with you on this one. I tried the Five Guys Burger and it was nothing to write home about. It was like some picnic burger. Theres a 50s style burger place called http://www.johnnyrockets.com/index2.php at the victoria gardens mall by my house. Now thats a good burger. In N Out is very good as well.

[troy1979]

Good............but i have had better.............

[The Count of Merkur Cristo]

We have two 5 Guys here in Frdericksburg, VA and both are just awesome...certainly some of the best Burgers & Fries I've had in a long time. :thumbsup:

http://www.toontownhall.com/forums/images/smilies/Other_121209/hamburger.gif "I'll gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today". Wimpy


http://www.sraretailsouth.com/grfx/logo-5guys.jpg

[GuitarGuy]

Five Guys is fun... The baseball team likes the bag o' fries...
Red Robin has good and interesting burgers...

For my $ though - nothing beats a Whataburger... Just like you like it...

Sorry for you folks who don't live near Texas...

[LittleLebowski]

5 guys makes me miss In'n'Out something fierce....

[BobS]

I am very happy with the one near us, in Wilmington, Delaware.

[kwk285]

They are opening up one 15 minutes or so from my house. I have heard that they have good burgers. It will be interesting if I like them

[Laz]

I had a burger and fries tonight at 5 Guys yesterday. I thought it was pretty good. The only fast food place that I enjoy burgers from is In N Out, but I thought 5 Guys was just about as good. The toppings were fresh and the burger tasted fine. It reminds me of burgers you would make at home. I would eat there again. It definitely beats McDonald's, Jack in Box and Burger King.

[tsacain]

Within 15 miles I have 3 five guys. One of them is decent but the others are horrible(for the price). Think expensive checkers/rallys burgers. The decent one is good but I like a local bar with a burger and fries for $7 much more. Although I do like that five guys has the malt vinegar.

[jmg1981]

Not to be a downer, but I think anyone who can properly man a grill can make their own burger better than 5 guys. I ate there once, thought "i could have made this at home", and never went back. Its better than fast food, but I dont understand all the hype.

[The Count of Merkur Cristo]

Not to be a downer, but I think anyone who can properly man a grill can make their own burger better than 5 guys. I ate there once, thought "i could have made this at home", and never went back. Its better than fast food, but I dont understand all the hype.
jmg:
I guess some of the hype and the beauty (just like going to any food establishment/restaurant), is letting 'someone else' do the cooking. :lol1:

Christopher http://i685.photobucket.com/albums/vv211/twangerstudios/smiley_cooking.gif "Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness." Chef Auguste Escoffier

[mikey]

I will have to give them a try sometime.

Thanks,
Mike


I agree 100% with you on this one. I tried the Five Guys Burger and it was nothing to write home about. It was like some picnic burger. Theres a 50s style burger place called http://www.johnnyrockets.com/index2.php (http://www.johnnyrockets.com/index2.php) at the victoria gardens mall by my house. Now thats a good burger. In N Out is very good as well.

[rsdown]

I going to have to be a downer, too, on Five Guys. Grossly overrated, imo. The fries are great, but the burgers are nothing special. Over-cooked burgers that have had every last drop of flavor squeezed out of them. Better than McD's, to be sure, but not good.
Now, I don't know if they have been mentioned yet, but BGR/The Burger Joint is just wonderful. MUCH more expensive than Five Guys, but worth it. Try 'em.

[craig87c]

Had johnny rockets last night. One of my favorite takeout burgers except for the bread. The buns fell apart after a couple of bites. Really good even when disassembled :lol:

[jakespoppy]

We have a 5 Guys near us, also a Smashburger, a Whataburger, a Fuddrucker's, and if I want more upscale there's the burger at Saltgrass steakhouse. Love them all! Burgers for me are like shaving creams and soaps. So many good ones to choose from, I just have to put them in rotation. :thumbup1:

[DFrancis]

Consumer reports had a ranking given by customers of fried from fast food places, 5 guys was the only non-huge place listed, their fries cam in 2nd after Wendy's new fries. Aparently Wendy's got the edge for tasting more of potato.

[Gammon]

SWMBO and I were searching for a George Webb's that apparently isn't there anymore, and found a Five Guys near where it used to be. There were plenty of places around I'd normally go, but, due to all the hype about Five Guys (mostly THIS THREAD), I said, "Let's try Five Guys." So we did. Half way through ordering I noticed the sign that says they cook all their burgers well done, or as I like to say Extra Well Burnt. I seriously thought about turning around and leaving at that point but decided not to.

The burger I got was bad. Not bad as in someone screwed up cooking it, or bad as in the meat was old, but bad as in they really are doing it wrong. I couldn't make a burger that bad if I wanted to.

The fries were purely disgusting. They weren't french fries. They were pieces of potato (*mostly* skin, how do they do that??) boiled in peanut oil. I can't believe there's people that like to eat potatoes "cooked" this way.

[Goober]

They just opened one in Alexandria, La. The wife says they are awesome, Kids say they are ALMOST as good as a DAD burger. I taught them well. Can't wait to try Five Guys when I get back.

[steelcity2]

I've lived in Tampa for over 4 years now and still have yet to try one. They have several locations around here. I rather make my burgers at home on the weber.

[salazch12]

Crap. I was trying to eat healthy today. Looks like that's not gonna happen (5-guys is like a mile from my work).

[Merkur25]

I like 5 guys burgers but I prefer the Burger Shack. Both have great burgers though

[72plymsatellite]

i went there and i wasnt impressed. they were good dont get me wrong, but i would rather go to the habit or in n out.

[Merkur25]

I wish I had an In n Out burger joint near me.... best burger I ever had by far

[Obiwan]

Just found out they are opening one 5 minutes from where I work. My 2012 resolution is to gain 15 lbs :)

[Go West Young Man]

SWMBO and I were searching for a George Webb's that apparently isn't there anymore, and found a Five Guys near where it used to be. There were plenty of places around I'd normally go, but, due to all the hype about Five Guys (mostly THIS THREAD), I said, "Let's try Five Guys." So we did. Half way through ordering I noticed the sign that says they cook all their burgers well done, or as I like to say Extra Well Burnt. I seriously thought about turning around and leaving at that point but decided not to.

The burger I got was bad. Not bad as in someone screwed up cooking it, or bad as in the meat was old, but bad as in they really are doing it wrong. I couldn't make a burger that bad if I wanted to.

The fries were purely disgusting. They weren't french fries. They were pieces of potato (*mostly* skin, how do they do that??) boiled in peanut oil. I can't believe there's people that like to eat potatoes "cooked" this way.

Where do you live? There seems to be a pattern of good spots and bad spots for this chain.

[Alacrity59]

I just thought I'd mention that there are a few Five Guys here in Canada now too. I may hit it for a burger and fries on Saturday to see how it stacks up against the local competition.

[Lynchmeister]

One just opened up close to where I work and a couple of my co-workers have really given it the high praise. I'm hopeful that this locale is one of "the good ones." Regardless, I'm doubtful their burgers will be better than the one I had at The Nook in St. Paul the other weekend. Wow...you wanna talk about a burger...

[gopher4653]

One just opened up close to where I work and a couple of my co-workers have really given it the high praise. I'm hopeful that this locale is one of "the good ones." Regardless, I'm doubtful their burgers will be better than the one I had at The Nook in St. Paul the other weekend. Wow...you wanna talk about a burger...

Love the Nook! If you are in St. Paul, hit the Blue Door Pub... awesome burgers as well that blow away the often talked about 5-8 Club/Matts... I do enjoy Five Guys once in a while though and their never ending bag of fries... I don't burger discriminate....

[Lynchmeister]

Love the Nook! If you are in St. Paul, hit the Blue Door Pub... awesome burgers as well that blow away the often talked about 5-8 Club/Matts... I do enjoy Five Guys once in a while though and their never ending bag of fries... I don't burger discriminate....

If eating a Juicy Lucy in a ratty, 60's/70's era basement bar sandwiched in next to a few bowling lanes is wrong, then baby, I don't wanna be right! :lol:

[Gustav Halbach]

I've tried 5 Guys twice. Gotta say I don't understand the hype either. Burgers were nothing special and the fries, both times, were swimming in grease/oil....yuck. I sometimes think people go to places like 5 Guys just because it's the "popular thing to do".

Just my opinion.

-G

[TheGuy]

I just thought I'd mention that there are a few Five Guys here in Canada now too. I may hit it for a burger and fries on Saturday to see how it stacks up against the local competition.

I've been to 3 of the 5 Guys up here, the only ones I know about in or around Toronto. The one out in Mississauga I think is the best, but the one on Highway 7 is good too. The one on Warden out in Scarborough was not so good, and if it had been the first one I went to I am not sure I would have tried the others.

I like them. The fries so far have been really good and I like the thinner patties that are well done. I don't trust eating ground beef from a chain that's less than at least medium well anyways. But then since my culinary classes I have been rather strict with my food handling. Hearing about the rate at which bacteria multiplies at room temperature was kind of scary. :scared:

[_JP_]

Where do you live? There seems to be a pattern of good spots and bad spots for this chain.

That's just it with chain operations. Quality control varies from store to store. Always will.

[barneykiller]

The only fast food place that I enjoy burgers from is In N Out, but I thought 5 Guys was just about as good. It definitely beats McDonald's, Jack in Box and Burger King.


different price point from MC Donalds BK ect. And Ive heard comparisons to In-N-Out but that's just the fad talking. In-N-Out is legit. 5 guys is meh.
Aslo huge +1 to Apple Pan and The Habit.

[rearviewmirror]

for about the same price, I can get the 'kobe burger' at bonefish and its a lot better.

[goby]

We have one opening an hour away. I'm so bummed that they don't sell veggie burgers. :angry:

[Gammon]

I've tried 5 Guys twice. Gotta say I don't understand the hype either. Burgers were nothing special and the fries, both times, were swimming in grease/oil....yuck. I sometimes think people go to places like 5 Guys just because it's the "popular thing to do".

Just my opinion.

-G

+1. It's my opinion too. French fries should NEVER be soggy and should always taste like potato. The sixth guy was the french fry expert and they fired him early on. Also, anyone who really believes french fries should be cooked in peanut, canola, or corn oil has never had fries properly cooked in lard. Nothing beats lard for deep frying.

Also, McDonald's burgers are pretty sad, but SWMBO and I both agreed (astonishing, yes!) that McD's has Five Guy beat.

[The Pontificator]

Anything this good just CAN'T be good for you. :tongue:

This. Since my heart attack this past December SWMBO says that if I go to Five Guys again she'll do what the cardiac event didn't.

[Af28newton]

Try the hot dog too! Really good!

[insomniac]

I thought it was overrated. The burger got soggy. Fries were tasty but the portions are kind of absurd, they start getting cold by the time you are half-way through the bag.

Up here is there a small chain called Blazing Onion Burger Company that is outstanding.

[turtle]

I went to one based on raves on another forum. I was underwhelmed (to put it politely).

I thought maybe it was just a bad franchise so I gave it another shot at another franchise in a different town.

Same experience. I have not gone nor will I go back to any of them.

Too bad because I was hoping to find a decent burger chain that had edible food. Still looking.

[Lynchmeister]

My wife and I went for the first time last night. The bacon cheeseburger was pretty good and the fries were awesome. I'll definitely go back, but these days I'm trying to shed the extra pounds that sneaked up on me during college, which means my fast food excursions are few and far between...I'm like Elaine contemplating her latest beau. Is he sponge worthy?

[Techichi]

Recently went on a burger spree with a friend of mine. Went to In & Out, 5 Guys, Smash Burger, and a few local spots over the period of a month. Smash Burger blew them all away IMO.

[Granaura]

I've been to 3 of the 5 Guys up here, the only ones I know about in or around Toronto. The one out in Mississauga I think is the best, but the one on Highway 7 is good too. The one on Warden out in Scarborough was not so good, and if it had been the first one I went to I am not sure I would have tried the others.

I like them. The fries so far have been really good and I like the thinner patties that are well done. I don't trust eating ground beef from a chain that's less than at least medium well anyways. But then since my culinary classes I have been rather strict with my food handling. Hearing about the rate at which bacteria multiplies at room temperature was kind of scary. :scared:

Heck.. If you are in Mississauga you should drop by my old hood.. John Anderson Burgers on Dundas... :lol: Next to Tim Hortons it is my 2nd favourite place started by a Maple Leaf hockey player..

Old School.. :)

[tsacain]

I have eaten at 5-guys many times in my area. 4 places. I agree they have a good burger but for the price I would rather drive the extra 3 miles to sonic. I do not see the appeal, like many others have posted.

[ThePatrician]

They are excellent burgers, but I'm sad to say that they are a mere shadow of the former Five Guys.... I grew up eating at the original 5 locations in northern VA, and fondly remember the insanity of their burgers. These places were decidedly dives, usually in a seedy part of the industrial parks. Peanut shells on the floor, loud music, and a line always out the door. The buns were made by a small, secret local bakery, and the burgers weren't so much patties, as they were globs of ground beef held together by the cheese. :drool:

That being said, they are still the best around and are worth going just for the obscene amount of fries they throw into the bag when you order a large. Long live the 5 Guys!

+100000 My father worked next door to the original NoVa location, so I would always get lunch there whenever he took me to work with him. Other fast food doesn't exist now as far as I am concerned. It is the perfect dive lunch food, and the unchallenged master of comfort food.

Before I moved overseas a friend came to visit from California, and he had never even HEARD of 5Guys. When I told him he wouldn't be able to finish the burger and a regular-size fry he called me a....... well he didn't call me a gentlemanly word. He ordered a large fry, and his eyes bugged out when he saw how much fries they gave him. He didn't finish a quarter of them.

[crowdog]

I have one not too far from my office. I live in Idaho, so they better get the fries right, or they are going to get run out of town. The franchisees here have done a really good job. Food is great, service is great, fries are always hot and fresh. There are not a lot of places here with great burgers that are close to me in town, so 5 guys is great.

Marty

[eyebright]

We have an Elevation Burger near us, and several Five Guys. Elevation has better quality ingredients except for the buns - for some reason they use the same squishy white bread that all the chains use. Five Guys seems really greasy to me. I like the cut of the fries better at Five Guys.

[SlantMyFace]

I prefer elevation burger, but love Five guys too. I prefer fresh organic products and find organic meat tastes better than non.

[litespeedone]

A 5 Guys opened in the local mall; I've eaten there 2 or 3 times. Burgers and fries are good, but the portions are ridiculous.