The best smash burger, fries and soda I have ever eaten. Service was phenomenal. I will stop by whenever I can

Went to the Black Napkin yesterday for lunch and it was pretty darn great. Best burger and fries I've had in forever. The young lady taking the orders was so friendly and caring. Highly recommend read more

Delicious all around- the Black Napkin is a frequent craving in my household. The Big Malcolm is our go to burger (I get the vegetarian version and my partner gets a regular one). Highly recommend the salt n red wine vinegar fries and trying out their various dipping sauce. We have tested all of their house made sodas and the golden cola is our favorite. The line can get long so if you have flexibility I would recommend trying to go at a less popular time if the wait is important to you. Friendly, down to earth service. Cute spot in a smaller space so you will likely end up eating to go. read more

Y'all, when people say this is the best burger and fries in Grand Rapids, they are telling the absolute TRUTH. Ive been to Black Napkin several times and there has never been a miss. My go-to order is a double le college dropout with just salted fries and a side of either the special sauce or the herb de Provence mayo. I also often get whatever burger is on special that week, but sometimes they have too many spicy elements and I can't hang when it comes to spicy. I've also had all of the other seasoned fries and they were delicious, but nothing can compare to the plain just salted for me. They have fun craft sodas as well and I usually try new citrus based ones when they have them. Oh and the popsicles!! Also so top notch and really add the cherry on top for an otherwise stellar meal. They are good quality and can survive the ride home in the car. The staff will keep them in the freezer if you aren't eating it them right away and give them to you when your meal is finished. I haven't had many of their chicken sandwiches because I am just so obsessed with their burgers, but I've never heard anything but good things. Pro-tips: - plan to take it to go. You can technically eat at some of the 4 small tables they have inside but I wouldn't recommend it per say. Often people use the tables to wait for their food. There are usually markers and cut things on some of the tables, but overall it's a tight space and I usually only try to stay inside (even when waiting for my food) is when there has been really cold temps or heavy rain. - go before 5p if you can and you will likely miss the long line. I usually only wait about 20 minutes when I go because I avoid super peak dinner times. - skip a single. The burgers are smashed and thin and crispy on the edges. Singles are rookies mistake imo. - always get a side of sauce. They are all delicious and worth the additional cost. - if you are stuck between 2 burgers, get them both and split with someone! - In my experience the burgers also keep well in the fridge so cover it back up in the wrapping and enjoy the rest the next day! - 1 regular fry is likely enough to share between 2-3 people, especially if you also have burgers or chicken sandwiches! - TAKE A RISK ON THE SPECIAL! There are been some weekly burger specials that I've thought were really odd or unique or maybe something I've never heard of, but it's ALWAYS been worth it when I've taken the jump. The folks at Black Napkin doing what the heck they are doing over there!!! The staff are always kind and often recognize a familiar face when you've gone enough times haha. Good people making good food! It has been my number one recommendation in GR since they opened. read more

This smashburger spot was BUSY! It had a line out the door as usual, we waited about 30 mins in the middle of a Saturday afternoon but it was well worth it. Staff was efficient and had some seats available indoors to dine in. I found it really cool how they make their own sodas and they have some unique popsicle flavors from Any Colour You Like! I had the big Malcom burger and the special sauce was delicious. The kimchi white cheddar french fries were suprisingly my favorite part of the meal, they were seasoned to perfection and had a nice kick to it! Definitely recommend checking this spot out! read more

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We stopped in after realizing that it was only another block down from the Fulton Street Market. We got there at 11:20, which was 10 minutes before opening, and a line was already forming which was a good sign. Even better, it moved quickly and efficiently once doors did open. The service was impeccable. They provided recommendations & told us what was most popular, noting there was nothing you could go wrong with on their menu. And they were right! We tried two sandwiches and an order of fries, and once we took the first bite, there was nothing but silence as we ate because it was THAT good. Although the lobby area is small and seating is limited, they do provide self-served cold water for people to enjoy while waiting, which is nice on warmer days. We can't wait to go back and try their house made popsicles, more burgers, and another order of the fries. Black Napkin did not disappoint! read more

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YUM-ME. This was on a 'Top 10 best burgers in' and figured to give it a try. Ordered the classic double, Malcom double, and kimchi fries with Thai basil mayo. Absolutely delicious! Forgive me when I say there were multiple old couples sitting inside and a line out the door of college aged kids waiting to place their orders. You know it's good when you have that much diversity in age. I wouldn't recommend sitting inside unless you like small spaces and people watching. A lady walked out raving about the pistachio soda, so we tried it. SKIP. The blueberry lemon was better, but still not something I'd order again. King is cash, but they do take card. There are a few tables inside, but once it gets busy, it feels a bit cramped and awkward. read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Folks talk endlessly about the quality of food at the Black Napkin. Inventive, delicious and fun. Interior as simple. I tried the golden cola, fries, and Le College Drop Out. They are smash burgers- please, please, please get at least two patties. Staff is very friendly. Expect to wait in line! Worth a try! read more

Black Napkin Takeout - College Dropout - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Everyone calls black napkin the best burger in Grand Rapids and honestly I can see why. I got the classic double burger and it was delicious. Simple but done really well. The smash patties were flavorful and cooked to perfection. The fries were really good too. We tried all of their sauces except the regular mayo and liked most of them! The line is almost always out the door, which might feel intimidating at first, but it moved pretty quickly so the wait was not too bad. It is a takeout style spot with a couple of tables inside but the food definitely lives up to the hype. If you are craving a really solid burger, black napkin is worth a shot! read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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A true takeout staple in Grand Rapids. A set thin salty patties with fresh veggie topping, creative sauces and a fresh bun from nantucket bakery. The line may be long, but it is truly worth the wait! Only a couple tables, but my favorite thing to do is grab a burger and fine a bench or park to eat at! read more

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We were a little intimidated walking up to building with the line going outside the door but it was SO worth the wait and didn't take long at all. Our server (order taker?) was so sweet and had such a kind, chill vibe. We both got doubles and they were so delicious and filling. I got Le College Dropout and I loved it, the crispy edges on the patties is superb. This one does have a bit of sweetness due to the tomato jam I think so if you're into that you'll love this burger. The fries were also delicious, perfectly salted and soooo crispy. So glad we went with the sun-dried tomato ranch as well. The sodas were also super unique! I tried a few sips of the golden cola and it was super interesting and full of warm spices. read more

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Very good smash burger and fry's home made pop all delicious...the only thing better would be my son Joey joining me as he suggested black Napkin ... read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Not 100% sure what was on this burger but it was delicious the French fry's and home made pop as well... I'll be back...' - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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A must-try burger place in Grand Rapids! A legit smash burger place where they don't mess around with any frills. Quality and customer service are the only two things you need, and they serve them up perfectly. The burger itself was very good. Not great, but very good. The outside of my burger meat had this smell that was a little... "what is that smell". I couldn't pinpoint it, and I still can't. But aside from that, it was delicious. The fries are an insanely generous portion with the most amount of seasoning I've ever seen. It was great. It's a local spot in the heart of one of Grand Rapid's best neighborhoods. Support them if you're nearby! read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Inside black napkin - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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Easily the best restaurant in all of Grand Rapids. Well, more takeout than restaurant, but the food is unmatched. Not a ton of indoor seating, FYI. Big Malcolm is an elevated Big Mac Le College Dropout is one of our favorites and it comes with smashed onions, arugula, peppercorn tomato jam, and an herb de Provence mayo. They've also got a rotating burger special that you can find on their Instagram account. Make sure to get a double on the patties or else it's sort of bun/topping-heavy. Fries are battered well and very crispy. By far and away my favorite kind of fries. Try the kimchi and white cheddar dusted ones with a side of the Thai Basil mayo or the tomato basil ranch -- all of them are a great addition for just 50 cents. Also get an "any color you like" popsicle while you wait. Bunch of fun flavors to pick from. Same goes for their house made colas. It's soda water mixed with their house made syrup, and somehow they can do no wrong in whatever they make. Drinks, burgers, fries, sauces, dessert -- all top notch and paired with the nicest people working there. Can't ask for more than that. 5 stars and continues to be our favorite burger spot in Grand Rapids. read more

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While visiting my family, on their must do list for us this trip, was visiting Black Napkin. A casual, high traffic, small takeout only burger spot (few small tables inside). To make it even more exclusive. You have to order in person, no calling ahead or pick up orders. They clearly have a a great rep as they seem to have a consistent line wrapping around their building, which I think is par for the course (sounds scarier than it is, or does move at a reasonable pace.) They're open Wednesday's through Saturday's or until they sell out, which they did this fine holiday weekend! On to the important stuff: They have a lean line up of burgers, chicken sandwiches and a few weekly specials, a variety of seasoned fries, homemade pops and popsicles. You can get the burger as a single, double or triple. I opted for Le College Drop Out burger, that came with a delicious tomato jam, arugula, caramelizes onions and grand cru cheese. Two words: Chefs kiss*! Classic smash burger thinness, gooey cheese and lots of flavor. I highly recommend getting at least two patties, as they're only 3 oz each, which is honestly my only gripe, a single should have at least 4 oz for the price, but I regress. On to the fries, honestly I can't describe how good these fries were. They are generously seasoned, flavorful, crispy potato perfection. Don't hesitate, just order! They have lightly salted or a few specials seasoning blends including kimchi and white cheddar, rust, which is a combination of paprika, coriander and garlic or salt and red wine vinegar and of course a line up of dipping sauces to pair. I do wish each fry came with one, as they are extra, but still worth it. I also tried my sister's pop and it was very good, so if that's your jam definitely get one! Everything traveled so well too for our 20 minutes back home, including the fries. The vibe of the place is super fun, artsy and friendly service to match. They do check the line periodically as well, to make sure no one waits for a sold out disappointments. I don't know if it's a "quick" bite spot with their rep, so plan accordingly, but if you got a little time or don't mine waiting, it's definitely a burger worth getting! I'll be back Black Linen! read more

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This is a fun, hip little takeout place on Fulton and Diamond. There has been an extraordinary amount of hype regarding this place and so my kids and I tried it out not long after it opened (in 2022, I believe). We all got the smash burgers and were not really impressed. Since then, I've tried it twice more just to make sure our first experience wasn't a fluke or an off day. It wasn't. (I went alone since neither of my kids wanted to return.) Although the service is always friendly, the prices are reasonable and the vibe is cool, it doesn't make up for the food. My take: this is a prime example of the "Emperor's New Clothes" effect. The burgers are nowhere near the best in GR, and do not even crack my top 10. I find the patties to be consistently over-salted and overcooked, even for a smash patty. The sauces are ok, but nothing special, and the battered French fries are 'meh'. If you get the "Custy Dust" flavored fries, then be ready for a full-on sodium bomb that eclipses any 'flavoring' they were supposed to have had on them. Is this place terrible? Not at all, but there is zero chance I would opt to stand in line for their burgers when there are so many superior places in town to choose from. I could understand if you've not been to many of the other burger places in GR, but I've been to over 40 of them and I am not going to follow the crowd on this one. The king is nekkid, and his food is 'mid' at best. read more

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This is probably one of the top 3 burgers I've had in my life, certainly one of the best smashburgers I've had. Stopped in here on a Saturday for some late lunch. Small line outside and a little bit cramped inside with only a few tables open if you want to eat inside. Its takeout so not a knock against them for that. Food took a little bit but you can tell everything is fresh so well worth it. The artisan sodas are really cool. I got a golden cola and it tasted like spiced wine lol, interesting flavors. The fries were super crispy and perfectly salted. Really really good fries and choices of dipping sauces are a plus. And the burger !! Loads of crispy meat bits around, and the patty was flavorful and delicious. Everything tasted very fresh and amazing. My girlfriend and I both sat back after and noted how incredible it was, and we ate in the car! Wish this place was closer, but just about worth making the trip! If you're in Grand rapids or passing through, it's worth it. If this place was in nyc there would be an hour+ line everyday. read more

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This is one of my favorite stopping spots in the Grand Rapids area!!! Love their smash burgers, the red wine vinegar fries are exceptional with the herbs de Provence aioli for dipping! Great house made drinks too!!! The Dude abides... read more

Was visiting GR for the weekend and stopped in! Recommended by a local and glad I went. Line was about 20 minutes long and there are only a few tables inside, so expect a wait or plan to take it to go. Staff was unreal -- seriously some of the friendliest people I've ever met. Everyone there made you feel like the most important person in the world. I had the double Big Malcolm burger. Solid smash burger, super thin patties and nicely topped. A little too salty for me, but still good. Added onions and liked the extra crunch. The salt n red wine vinegar fries were awesome -- hot, crispy, fresh cut. Tried a few sauces too (50 cents each) and they were all solid. Had a ruby red fresca to drink, kind of Squirt-adjacent but better. Finished with a popsicle, which was a fun little treat. Worth the stop if you're in town. read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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This is my second time ordering from here, and I got there at around 5:15pm and there was no line. There's just a few high top tables inside, so it's mainly a takeout spot. This was my first time ordering a burger here - I got the double big malcolm. Each smash patty is 3 oz - this was the perfect size for me (or I would get a single). The crispy edges on the patty were super tasty! Also, the plain salted fries were perfectly fried. I loved them with the sun dried tomato ranch. I wish this place added milkshakes to their menu!! read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Double Big Malcolm Burger - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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This was our first time trying black napkin and we've heard great things about them but never had the chance to try them until recently. I don't know why we waited so long to try this place out. Hands down one of the best burgers we've had! The patties were so fresh and flavorful! The fries were well seasoned and fried to perfection. read more

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My daughter went with her Boyfriend, She said it was outstanding and there was a line around the block.

First time patron I have to admit that I was disappointed, especially have read many positive reviews. What was GOOD - ambiance was fun, waiting in line and talking with others. Even though there was a 20 wait (due to popularity), the staff was friendly and helpful when asking about menu items. The sodas were unique and very tasty (I had the peach/lemon fizz). Hand dipped fries were hot, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside (very tasty) What was NOT GOOD - I had the Classic Double. The only thing not particularly good was the meat for the burger (way too thin). I know it's a smash burger and it is supposed to be thin, but it needs to start out as a larger patty (it was only 3 oz). When cooked, it was too well done and seemed more like crispy bacon than ground beef. Otherwise, the overall burger presentation was good - nice bun, all the fixings such that it was dripping down your hands read more

Easily my FAVORITE burger spot in all of Grand Rapids! This tiny spot almost always has a line of people waiting to get in because it is just THAT good. If you don't believe me, you gotta go check it out. Their menu is pretty standard with some classic burger options where you can choose between a single, double, or triple patty. The burger patties are from Michigan craft beef and smashed very THIN. Thin and crispy around the edges! I freaking love it and crave it and think of nothing else when I want a smashburger. They also have chicken sandwiches that are phenomenal and their fries are out of this world with different dipping sauces to choose from. It's amazing. Every week there seems to be either a burger or chicken sandwich special and sometimes both so keep and eye out for that on their chalkboard or socials. The sodas are made in house, and the Golden Cola is my go-to. Absolutely divine and so tasty! When you walk inside there are some small tables set up for you to eat but mostly this place is meant for takeout. And they have cool decor and some merch for sale. Almost forgot to mention they have some popsicles too! I'm always so focused on the burgers. But beyond that, the people working behind the counter are just so kind and the best gems! They always make you feel so good before you leave. Check this place out! read more

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The smash burgers are amazing! I got the fussy hussy because I love olive burgers! It was delicious. I also tried the white peach lemon fuzz and had to stop myself from drinking it all at once. It was soooo good! And lastly I had probably my favorite of all which was the salt and red wine vinegar fries. OMG I would eat them every day if I could! This will definitely be a craving going forward! The employees were extremely friendly. It was just a small shop with a couple tables but most people grab their food to go. It would be awesome if they did pickup orders but with the fast paced environment I can see why that would be hard. read more

Long lines that usually indicate it's good and it is. Really really good. Strange set up to order and receive the food but they are working with the space they have. If you want the best burger in GR this is the place just be patient. read more

I'm not a fan of smash burgers but I am now! Friends picked up from the takeout only restaurant and we all were delighted with the food! The burgers are like nothing I've ever had before. The edges of the burger are a crunchy lace like consistency. They come on a seated bun, but they also have gluten-free. We all got regulars which come with American cheese, shredded lettuce, onion, ketchup, and mustard. The single is quite substantial and the double is Very filling. The French fries are batter dipped and delicious! They come with a basil mayo for dipping. The takeout process is very efficient and the wait time is minimal. They also have a fried chicken option and creative drinks. What a great concept!! read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Single regular smash burger - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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The BEST burgers by far. Thank you so much Black Napkin, what a wonderful institution and with wonderful sweet treats.

Can this place meet it's hype? It's a takeout place only and there is usually a line out the door. It is just a small place that you order at the counter and they'll call your name when it's ready. I Ordered a triple Le College Dropout ($18). This has 3 smash patties, Grand Cru Cheese, smashed vidalia onions, arugula, peppercorn tomato jam, and herb de provence mayo. This is absolutely the best smash burger I've ever had. Normally I prefer thick burgers, however this burger is also one of the best burgers period I've ever had. It's meaty with a great beef taste and the toppings are an excellent boost to the beef. I also got a Hot, Sweet, and Sticky Chicken sandwich ($11). This has tumeric slaw, thai basil mayo, and sweet and spicy chili glaze. The chicken is like a chicken version of a smash patty. Very thin. It is very good, I really like the chili glaze. It is not the best chicken sandwich in Grand Rapids though. Honestly a certain fast food place has a better one, still worthwhile if you don't eat beef. Lastly the Rust Fries ($5). They are fries with sweet paprika, coriander, garlic, and mustard seasoning. These are some of the best fries I've ever had and a very generous portion size too. They perfectly hug that crunchy and chewy line to perfection. The service was very efficient and very pleasant. Overall an easy 5 star review. Would I return? Absolutely. Easily one of the best burgers I've had. The made from scratch doda are intriguing also read more

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I've been wanting to try Black Napkin since they opened, and after hearing nothing but rave reviews, I can confidently say they live up to the hype. I ordered the classic burger and wow--phenomenal. It's a smash-style burger, so the outside has that perfectly crispy, caramelized texture that gives it a totally different (and addictive) bite. The sesame seed bun was fantastic--soft, flavorful, and held everything together beautifully. The fries ? Incredible. They offer two kinds, both great, but the dusty crusty fries (Cajun-style) absolutely stole the show--bold, flavorful, and perfectly cooked. I also tried their raspberry apricot sparkler --a homemade soda that was fruity, sweet, tart, and refreshing with a bright lemony sparkle. Truly divine and such a fun, unique touch. Even though they were clearly swamped with takeout orders, the staff still checked on our table multiple times to make sure everything was perfect. That kind of care really stands out. Bottom line: it's worth the wait. If you haven't tried Black Napkin yet in Grand Rapids, go. You won't regret it read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Classic Burger and Crusty Dusty Fries - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

The absolute best Smashburger. The service was on point. It was a fun environment with people excited to get food. It's like steak 'n Shake only if it was made at steak 'n Shake with premium beef and cooked on the flat top for the perfect crisp. read more

The food was good. The star of the show was the fries - fantastic seasoning and crispiness. We also loved the soda they make - we tried the guava and peach one. One was more sweet than the other and they were fantastic when mixed. We tried the le collage dropout, big Malcom and basic bish. My favorite was the le collage dropout. My husbands favorite was the big Malcom. Dont be discouraged because there is always a line but they move pretty quickly. We might of waited 30 minutes total to order and for the food. read more

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Delicious food. This is my top recommendation for food in GR. I literally dream of black napkin. The people are great and the food is even better. Such a tiny space for such a great experience. Definitely don't miss out on it! read more

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Servers were nice but the burger patties are so thin and greasy. Overpriced for what you get and the bun is basically bigger than any of the toppings. Fries were good. Its like eating a beef chip read more

The black napkin is definitely a place to check out if you're in the area! Their burgers are absolutely delicious! It was definitely worth the 20 minute wait! Their burgers are large, yet perfectly thin and crispy! You should also check out their homemade drinks, the peach fizz was the best! We will definitely be in again! read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Double cheese burger and peach fizz - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

I'm normally not a big fan of burgers but this was the best burger I have ever eaten! We went last week and I've been thinking about it since. The rust fries were also phenomenal and probably the best fries I've ever had too. Service was excellent! read more

I finally got to try Black Napkin after hearing every single person I knew rave about it. And it did absolutely live up to the hype. I'm a big fan of local art, and the local art dispenser was so great to see upon entering. The staff is incredibly warm and inviting as well and knowledgable. I got the "basic bish" chicken sandwich with no shredduce. The chicken was super crispy and moist even after a car ride home. I also ordered the "rust" fries which were HEAVILY seasoned which was phenomenal. The fries were the highlight of the meal! My fiancee got the special burger "dr funkenstein" which had kimchi and gochujang mustard. He said it was really good! I'd definitely like to come back here and try the other menu items. read more

Black Napkin Takeout - Black napkin logo bag - Chicken Shop Near Me - Grand Rapids, Michigan

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This was well worth the wait! There are a few small tables inside the restaurant, but usually people just take their food to go. We went on a Friday evening and there was a small line out the door. Waiting in line and for our food probably took 20 mins total. The classic smash burger was everything you could want in a smash burger. The chicken sandwiches had great fried chicken. I liked the basic bish more due to the chicken being the star of the show with the classic, but minimal toppings. The hot, sweet and sticky was a unique sandwich with cool toppings but was messy. The rust fries had a ton of flavor but they do have a sweet aftertaste that I liked. The sun-dried tomato ranch was good but I did not expect for it to be chunky. I will probably go back to try the kimchi fries with a different dipping sauce because I've heard they're great. Overall, great food and I love the concept of this restaurant! read more

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The customer service is 2nd to nobody! I had the Le College dropout burger and it was out of this world delicious, the tomato jam they put on it had me kinda skeptical but it was my favorite thing on the burger. The Rust fries are super crispy yet pillowy inside and the flavors all go together so well. Really cool vibes as well, I will definitely be a customer for as long as I am alive and they are in business! read more

The staff is friendly. I had a big Malcom burger and it is big the bun is not big enough for sandwich. It was okay I thought it was a little salty could have been the sauce. The fries are good overall I will go back and try it again. Check there schedule and see what days there open. read more