I don't know what it is about Five Guys, but when I am looking for a go-to hamburger joint to satisfy my carnivorous craving, this place is typically one of the first spots that come to mind. It is similar to Chik Fil A in the respect that it knows what it is, it executes it extremely well (most the time), and is damn proud of it. There isn't much more to say besides, no matter what city I am in, if I am craving a solid burger, this typically hits the spot - specifically this location on Erie.
Food: I really can't understand what there isn't to like about a burger made to order, exactly the way you want it, with one of 2498093428 different toppings to choose from. It is a solid burger, period. Best I have ever had? Definitely not; but it delivers on nearly every level when you are in the food for a messy, greasy burger loaded with your favorite toppings. Personally, I still stick to the basics (lettuce, tomato, extra pickle, ketchup, mustard, and mayo); but the other stuff is there if I am feeling adventurous!
As everyone on Earth should know by now, there are many interpretations of 'The Burger'. Five Guys specializes in the 'greasy burger' variety. You've got the aforementioned 'greasy' burger (the one that gives heart attacks), the 'backyard' burger (the one that tastes like it came off your buddies' grill), the 'artisanal' burger (those who put fancy things on the burger trying to re-invent the wheel), and you've even got your 'high-quality' burger (a burger made with premium ingredients and is meant to simulate that you'd find at a fine dining restaurant or steakhouse - waygu burger, etc). Like I said, Five Guys is your classic greaseball burger, and they execute it well. Whether at an airport, or at a standalone location, they have never disappointed.
Their fries, on the other hand, have disappointed before. Not this time though. They were fresh, crispy, and (as always) there was a mound in the serving container, as well as inside the bag. Absolutely delicious. We ordered a 'large' for our whole table and were all set. In the realm of greasy burgers, this is my go to burger joint when I am not in San Antonio. It is very close to a 5 for me, but that is reserved for Longhorn Cafés burger. Also, the varying quality of fries keep s Five Guys from being a 5 star food establishment for me.
Food: 4 / 5
Service: Like any chain that spans the country, one is bound to find some bright spots, and some not-so-bright spots. Generally speaking though, I feel like I have had waaaaay less problems at Five Guys than any other restaurant in this category. I am typically greeted with someone who is courteous, efficient, and expedient. This was the case at the Syracuse location. I did make a fairly intellectual joke that went over the cashier's head; but I also understand (from my days in retail) that it is hard to joke around with customers because you have no idea who you are dealing with.
Service: 4 / 5
Atmosphere: Five Guys has all the hustle and bustle of a fast casual burger joint, but it is somehow way less chaotic - even during lunch rush. The free peanuts that are available for consumption while you wait is a nice touch, and they are always delicious - even if hundreds of other hands have been in there (eww). Overall, this is a nice place to sit down, zone-out, and enjoy a burger. Typically though, I like to enjoy my burger in the comfort of my office, or my own home.
Atmosphere 4 / 5 (3 / 5 + 1 for peanuts)
Price: I feel like the price is fair given what you get. I wouldn't pay any more for this burger, and would be inclined to agree that the prices may be at the top end of the spectrum for me, despite how good the food is.j Despite that, I am always satisfied when I leave, so price is never much of a factor for me.
Price: 3 / 5
Final Thoughts: Depending on the type of burger you are looking for - Five Guys will not let you down. If you have had a bad experience at Five Guys, then you should give them another shot because I'd be willing to attest that is an outlier and not the norm. This is definitively my go to place for a burger outside of San Antonio, TX. If only they could more consistently deliver crispy fries! read more