Your classic burger joint that's been around since 1960. You grab a slip of paper with menu options, fill out your order with a nub of a pencil, and slide it through a slot in the plate glass window, through which you can see 2-foot- high flames rising above a weathered flat top that emanates a delicious beefy aroma. The burgers are no frills, backyard barbecue vibes, really well seasoned and topped with the best burger cheese there is--melty yellow American. The fries are thick and starchy but cooked well so the vast majority are crisp and a little crunchy on the ends. They salt them really well, which goes a long way with thick cut fries. I heard the milkshakes are a great choice, but I wasn't nearly hungry enough, so I went with a soda fountain Dr. Pepper instead. Nice crunchy ice and a well stocked syrup supply gave it that classic drive-in soda quality. Super friendly staff rounded out that experience as well. It's not the best burger I've ever had by any means, but it really does give a warm sense of nostalgia, even for a place I'd never been to before. read more

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Each time I visit Raleigh, I try to go to a Char-Grill. The last two visits have been to the Hillsborough Street location. So glad this place is still here in my hometown. Each taste of the steak burger, fries, or shake are just heaven to me. I really enjoy my meal every time. There are a couple of tables to sit at, but we just ate in our car this time. The staff are always nice, and quick to get orders out. Chatting with others while waiting for the food is a great way to pass time, and learn of other places nearby to visit. We were told there's a bar across the street where you can take your food in, and that sounds like a good night! Definitely go try their food, and have the Char-Grill experience. read more

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There is no indoor seating, so make sure you go when it is warm or plan to eat in your car. The food was alright. The burger reminded me a lot of a fast food burger, similar to Cook Out. The white slaw was kind of blah and made my burger soggy even though we sat down and ate right away. One thing I did think was cute was the ordering process. You write your order on a small paper tablet and hand it to the people at the register, which adds a little charm to the place. We were brought here by friends for a quick bite before a hockey game, so it served its purpose. That said, the bathroom was absolutely disgusting, which really took away from the experience. Probably fine for a quick stop, but not somewhere I would go out of my way to return to. read more

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My friends and I grabbed food here while we were attending the Canes Stanley Cup Parade. The employees were absolutely swamped but did a great job keeping spirits up and working efficiently. My burger was delicious and cooked perfectly (add the chili -trust me). The fries were also crisp and tasty! I've always loved Char Grill so I was excited to see them open up early for everyone. I'll be back again of course. read more

Char-Grill - Tasty burg - Burgers Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Maybe you can't go back home, but you can still go back to the original Char-Grill, which feels pretty good. Well, at least for now you can go back, but the future of this specific spot is more than a bit up in the air since the property has been sold to a developer who's plan are more than a bit murky. This place first opened in 1959, and has seen several changes in ownership, and a few menu adjustments, but this spot has remained pretty much unchanged, even the need to hand write each order is still in force. We tried three items here - a cheeseburger, a chili dog, and my favorite, the 1/2 lb Hamburger Steak Sandwich. Everything was pretty darn good, though the chili dog was crudely assembled, messy but still tasty. This was a nostalgic visit to say the least! read more

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A classic Raleigh burger joint since 1959! It doesn't seem like much has changed based upon the menu options, location and signage. My two highlights were the semi-cryptic ordering form and the super thick vanilla shake. It was kinda fun and sort of confusing filling out the order form with a mini pencil, slipping it into the window slot and watching it 'slide' down the metal chute. The Hamburger Steak Jr (1/4 lb) patty was thin and oval-shaped, like the sesame seed-covered hoagie roll it was served on. I think a larger patty would be better, so next time I'll try the 1/2 lb version. Overall, i enjoyed the flavors of my Steak Jr. Also got a Char-Burger with chili, onions and "catsup," and man was it small (just 3 oz aka .18 lbs). It was a snack that wasn't all that good. The fries were thicker than shoestring, but not as thick as wedges. It was a small bag, but good and straight from the flyer. And again, the vanilla shake was excellent. Drive-in, park, order, take to-go or eat at the few tables the have outside the restaurant. read more

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One hundred percent best burger for me in NC period . Solid 5 stars for all categories . 5 stars-Food always hot and fresh. Never once have I ever had an issue with missing items or special requests. 5 stars- employees duper nice and extreme attention to detail with orders . Great team work. 5 stars- environment clean watch good bring prepared in front of you. Napkins condiments and straws always included . Amazing consistency. If you haven't been here you're missing out . Worth the trip prices are good too. read more

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It's obviously a staple of the Triangle, and it's a place you go when you're feeling pretty dang depressed late at night! The burger and fries are heavy and they will leave you feeling beat for the rest of the day, but you can't beat that char flavor. I would like some more topping options like jalapenos or grilled onions. But I do like the Ken's honey mustard packets for the fries. Way better than ketchup. Even though they're an extra 50 cents, they're well worth it. Much props for playing some old school music, it reminds me of a diner in the 50s or 60s. Beach Boys, Johnny Cash, Marty Robbins. I'm guessing most of the employees couldn't name most of the songs, but that's ok! read more

Stopped in at this Char-Grill that's different from the one in MW Raleigh. This one has their seating area outside. This one is I. The middle of downtown and seems to have a vibe. The food is the same and delicious. They did knock out orders quickly considering it was lunch hour. I was so hungry I ate my food before taking pics but their burgers are just as good at the others. read more

Ordered the Char-burger for $3.49. Added onions and it came out to $4? I don't understand the ordering process or the price of add-ons. The Char-burger is the cheapest burger on the menu but honestly I felt shorted. The burger was very thin like a McDonalds cheeseburger single patty. It seemed very plain. Just the burger, my choice of mustard, and the diced onions I guess I paid extra for. I expected at least pickles, onions, tomato, lettuce, but did not even see those as options to customize for the Char-Burger. This menu item does not seem worth it to me except if you add on some extras (chili or cole slaw). I will say I did like the crispy crunchy edges on the bun and the burger. That did give a home cooked texture like from a grill. The cashier was nice. The service was fast (about five minutes). It seemed like a popular place at night with people eating in their cars. And very conveniently located in front of a bus stop with a bench. The warmth emanating from the grill was nice too. Perfect location really, with a good amount of light at night too. I would like to know what people love at Char Grill. Why is it so popular? I don't think it's for the Char-burger. (I did appreciate that it was wrapped in tin foil and placed in a bag, though some napkins would've been nice). read more

This place is super fun and old school. The aroma reminded me of the burger joint down the way from my middle school lol. I will say.. there aren't proper directions on what to do unless you're with someone who knows or someone next to you is kind enough to walk you through it. Make sure you read the paper clearly and select the things you want because it's coming without ketchup if you don't put it lol. When I checked out no one waits in line properly and if you don't force your way to the window to pay people will just keep cutting you, butttt I was just trying to be polite and fair. I guess that doesn't work here. My only thing that is super negative is my hot dog was squished and I ate it at the tables sooooo they were probably in a hurry. He looked like he got stepped on lol. But this place was very good! Glad I got to check it out! read more

Char-Grill - My sad Hot Dog - Burgers Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Char-Grill is always a good option if you are looking for a quick meal. I ordered a cheeseburger topped with ketchup, mustard, chili, onion and slaw and a side of fries. This spot is fun to order at since you walk up and fill out your order on one of the prepared slips then send it down to be prepared. read more

Char-Grill - Burgers Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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I've been coming to this Char-Grill for years. Not much has changed but the prices of the food. I love the quick service and the pleasantness of the staff. I ate my food so quickly I didn't get a picture. The Apple turnovers are my absolute favorites. read more

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I stopped by here at 7:25pm on a Thursday evening. I found this by looking for fast food and wanted to try something different from the chain restaurants. On arrival, I looked at the menu which consists of burgers, grilled cheese, hot dogs, and bbq. They also have shakes. It reminds me of the Cookout chain, honesty. As I'm writing this review, I'm wishing they sold hushpuppies, lol. You must order via a piece of paper where you notate your choices, something I was completely unaware at first until I saw someone else grab the sheet. I got a double char burger with bacon, fries, and a brownie w/ no nuts. I placed my order at 7:30. Placing your order means putting it into this little slot where a staff member grabs it. You can put your name at the top or simply remember the number at the top. When ready, they will call your name or number via speakers that are a decent volume. They do have two picnic tables outside on the left side of the building. There is no indoor seating. There is a decent amount of parking available around the restaurant. Upon arrival and waiting, I saw they have a 100% sanitation score. My food was ready at 7:40pm. I was told they were out of brownies but I got a cookie instead. My total was $13.13. My fries were fresh and nicely salted. I realized I mean to get a cheese burger vs chat burger when there was no cheese on my burger lol. For some reason, I thought they were different. However, the burger was delicious. It tasted just like a freshly grilled burger, which is my burger weakness!!! The cookie was so soft and delicious! Additionally, it was warm too, which made it a nice snack after I finished my meal. (I will admit that I asked the employee if the cookie was worth the price before I got it.) My only complaint was that I wasn't greeted upon arrival or told what I do. I was standing around for a while looking and no one asked if I needed help or to give me instructions on what I needed to do to order. Overall, I would highly recommend and I would definitely return! The staff i encountered when picking up and paying for my order was friendly. read more

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I've been told on several occasions to check out Char-Grill, and I am not sure why. After trying out several grilled burger spots, including In & Out, this spot does not add up to that and falls very short. I ordered the cheeseburger. First, the burger patty is very thin and small and has no flavor at all. Also, in order to have toppings, you have to go through a very complicated system to order them. It shouldn't be complicated to just add mustard and onions, but they make it that way. The one bright light in all of this was the dude who helped me, and I was able to get onions, lettuce, and tomato. Unfortunately, there were no condiments, so the burger was super dry. It shouldn't be this crazy to order a burger! Still with the condiments, I don't think it would've helped the burger much. Maybe yesrs ago these burgers were good, but today it was a big miss and they were not good. I'm not sure if I will return. read more

A night on the town in Raleigh cannot end without the classic Char-Grill, gone are the days when it was open late night but you still cant beat the flame grilled cooked to order burger. This is what Burger King's whopper used to be. Huge flamegrilled burger with hot fries and a shake cant be beat after a night of drinking. read more

I went to this original Char-Grill in the 1970's when I was at NC State. Nothing has changed and that is a good thing. The ordering system, quality of the food and service is still top notch. It may take a little more time than the drive thru at a fast food place, but it is worth it. If you're in the Raleigh, NC area and don't go to one of their locations you're missing out. read more

The manager at Char-Grill was no longer taking orders and we were turned away. The hours of operation are until midnight, we got there at 1140pm. We left very disappointed and hungry!!!! read more

I have been a Char-Grill customer for several decades. Today I had yet another perfect burger, fries and drink there - served by a friendly and cheerful employee. Absolutely the best! read more

Pretty good chili, slaw dog with mustard and onions. Had a bit too much cole slaw on it. Would order next time without. Fries were ok. Service was great, quick and perfect. Will definitely return but not our top dog in Raleigh. read more

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My son and I dropped by for a quick lunch. The service was fast and the food was delicious. I love their fried apple pie. I am glad we don't have one in my town, I would be there all the time. read more

Always fast and delicious . Burgers are top notch and plenty of fries . Workers are Friendly for the most part. I genuinely only use walk up or drive thru. Lunch time favorite for me at least once every couple weeks. read more

I stopped here in desperation because I was starving and couldn't get to another restaurant downtown due to a protest gathering. I ordered a cheeseburger (forgot to add any toppings to my dismay) and fries. First, in terms of ordering, this is a no-frills 70s style walk-up carry-out situation. You fill out an order form with pencil (no eraser LOL) and slide it through a slot in the window. I was a newbie so I totally neglected to add any toppings to my "cheeseburger only," but the burger was still good (I'm sure it would've been much better with lettuce, tomato, mayo and ketchup). I did ask for ketchup at the window when paying. The fries were really good, fresh from the fryer. My daughter had to use the potty which left much to be desired but, hey, what could I expect? It seemed clean at least. Just needs some updating. I would visit again but would make sure to pay closer attention to my order next time! read more

Char Grill never misses. Whenever I visit Raleigh I make a point to get a burger and fries

Always great burgers and hotdogs and fries and milkshakes. In an interesting area downtown very pleasant.

First time trying this location. Came after a hot day at Out! Raleigh. Food came out quickly and was hot. Everything was fresh. Recommend. I had the chargrilled chicken sandwich with mayo, lettuce and onions. Side of fries and iced tea. Yum! read more

I brought my out of town guests to eat some Char-Grill. They loved it. The double burgers and cheese burgers were great. We had some "all the way" and some with slaw and onions... Delish and perfect grill flavor on the beef. The fries were crispy and fresh. My mom loved the thick vanilla shake, too! If you're in town, be sure to check out this burger "staple" in raleigh!! It's a gem, and prices are very fair. read more

staff are fantastic every time, food is amazing every time. This is our go to spot for burgers

Absolutely Delicious Cheeseburgers. Go to Char-Grill! You will not be disappointed! read more

Had to stop at the Char-Grill passing through Raleigh today. This was my go-to hangover cure when I was at NC State. Good as I remember, even without the hangover read more

Char-Grill - 1/2 lb Char Burger with fries.......mmmmm - Burgers Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Good char burgers and fries at a cheap price, what is not to like. There was limited seating so if you are thinking about coming here and eating here, look to be sitting in your car. You can also do what we did which is go across the street and sit at the 321 Coffee place which has a lot of outdoor seating. read more

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It feels like a classic experience - a bit of time travel. The food was pretty good. We went more for the novelty after a birthday party nearby than for the food. We both got burgers and fries. You can still order by fax!? I have not seen a fax machine in years upon years. Imagine? On the way home, we actually got stopped by the cops who, accidentally stopped us and then let us go. Due to the hour they perhaps believed we were speeding (we weren't) and perhaps likely drinking (we weren't) but when my partner opened the window they were probably blown away by the amazing fast food smell instead of his expected wine/beer/alcohol smell and realized his horrible mistakes. read more

The Food The service 11581 US 70 Business West Clayton NC 27520 I went in one Friday and Explain that I had just come from a Burger Shop and I ask for hot off the Grill 1.00 Minute later I had the Burger and I said this is not fresh off the grill, Got my Money Back. Went To Char Grill The Chef She cooked me a fresh double Burger and I got all my toppings and it was a wrap. They are my go to Burger Place. I would choose these Guys over a Few Burger Joints. Keith Mon read more

Simple and delicious. I would come back for a quick and inexpensive meal anytime. Try the dessert!

Char-Grill is a poor value for your money. It is overiced for what you receive. A family of four cannot get a filling meal for $40. That will not include cheese on your burgers either. The fries come in very small quantities as well. Take a look at this piece of lettuce (that I didn't actually order.) I went to NC State in the late 80's and enjoyed Char-Grill on occasion. Even then I thought it was a little overpriced, but now it is extremely overpriced. I am very disappointed. read more

Char-Grill - Wilted, brown lettuce - Burgers Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

It's awesome and the service is amazing as well ! The milkshakes taste amazing! Definitely would recommend the Zebra milkshake which is half vanilla and half chocolate! read more

Great service old school diner look but food is below average McDonald's without the flare but better service

Many fond memories of this place. I make sure I go back whenever I am in Raleigh. The burgers are flame, grilled, piping hot, and also so wonderful. You can smell the flames of deliciousness from Glenwood Avenue. It's got parking, which is a rarity for Hillsborough Street, the service is quick and friendly, and the burgers are so good. I nearly sprained my ankle to get one. Not much seating other than two metal picnic tables, but it is cool because you can witness the massive transformation. The city is undergoing. Enjoy this one while you still can folks, there's talk in the news about it being torn down. read more

I had to work on Hillsborough St., so I knew at least one visit to the original Char-Grill would happen! (I went twice). It is an interesting blend of people that come to the original Char-Grill. There's white collar and blue collar workers, former college students that have to eat there again when in the area, young urbanites, and I even spotted a WRAL reporter and photographer dining there. My favorite is the Char Grill Jr, ,with mustard, pickles and chili. It comes with fries. Certainly not the fastest of fast foods places, but waiting for your order name/number is a part of the experience. Delicious food and enjoyable part of being a Raleigh resident. read more

Char-Grill - Burgers Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Wonderful quick burger spot that didn't disappoint. I know folks love household names like Five Guys for the free toppings but if you're looking for a great product I urge you guys give char grill and snoopys a try. I went to chargrill for the first time and they have an old school ordering set up where you write your order slide it through a window and wait for them to call your number. 2 burgers and 2 fries for about $20 is what it should be and these burgers aren't small and they are flavorful. I wish I can customize my burger I'm not sure if I just didn't know how to do it but next time I will see what I can do toppings wise. Great place and if you don't believe me go around lunch time and watch the amount of people you see just sitting in their cars enjoying their food. That's the vibe at char grill and I love it honestly read more