The Menu
In the burger category, you have your choice of the following in one of two sizes -- regular or "little":
- Hamburger
- Cheeseburger
- Bacon Burger
- Bacon Cheeseburger
But that's just the beginning. Add to that your choice of free toppings, which include mayo, relish, onions, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, grilled onions, grilled mushrooms, ketchup, mustard, jalapeno peppers, green peppers, A-1 sauce, Bar B-Q sauce, and/or hot sauce. The burgers range in price from $3.39 to $5.69.
If you're not in the mood for a burger, you have four other menu options:
- 100% Kosher hot dog
- Cheese or Bacon dog
- Bacon Cheese dog
- Veggie or grilled cheese
These choices range in price from $2.49 to $3.89.
To accompany your burger or dog, you can choose regular or cajun-style fries made from fresh-cut potatoes. Coca-Cola products are served, along with bottled water, to wash it all down.
The Atmosphere
The atmosphere is definitely casual, and not the place for a quiet conversation. Let's just say the restaurant's interior looks like it was designed by five guys, rather than a professional interior designer. With a black-and-white color scheme, tile floors, closely-spaced tables and chairs, and boxes of peanuts and potatoes lining the walls, it feels a little more like you're eating in a kitchen rather than a dining room. It's clean, however, and serves its purpose of providing rudimentary seating for guests who prefer eating in to takeout.
The Pros
Five Guys has its pros:
- The toppings are free.
- You can customize your burger with your favorite toppings, and it's expected -- not an imposition.
- The burgers are made from 100% beef.
- The stores don't have any freezers or microwaves on the premises.
- The food is fresh. You can place an order ahead by phone to be ready on your arrival, but as I was proudly told, "We won't cook the fries till we see the whites of your eyes."
- They use 100% cholesterol-free peanut oil for frying.
The Cons
Like any restaurant, Five Guys also has its cons:
- The atmosphere isn't particularly relaxing.
- Decorating of the interior is sparse.
- The burgers are a little on the pricey side.
- It's hard to feel like you're eating a gourmet burger when you order at a counter and have to clean up after yourself.
