Some places get hyped. Some places get mythologized. And then there's Mac's Drive-Thru, which in Gainesville has basically achieved burger folklore status since 1987. So yeah, expectations were not exactly low. I pulled up and kept it simple. Cheeseburger, fries, large iced tea. No need to get cute when you're dealing with a place that's been doing one thing longer than most people have had careers. Let's start with the burger, because wow. This thing absolutely delivers. Cooked to order, juicy, perfectly seasoned, and hits that sweet spot where you take a bite and immediately understand why people won't shut up about it. Five out of five, no notes, no complaints. This is the kind of burger that makes you question every overpriced, overbuilt "gourmet" burger you've ever had. This is how it's supposed to be done. And then... the fries showed up. Hot? Yes. Fresh? Seemed like it. But somehow they pulled off the impressive trick of being both hot and soggy at the same time. It's like they skipped the part where fries are supposed to have texture. Total letdown, especially sitting next to a burger that's basically winning awards in my head. The iced tea did its job. No drama there. So here's where I land. The burger alone is worth the trip. It lives up to the legend, no exaggeration. But those fries dragged the whole experience down just enough to knock it to four stars. Mac's is this close to perfection. Fix the fries, and we're not even having a conversation. Right now, it's a legendary burger with a side of "what happened here?" read more

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Probably the best burger in town! It has its own taste, and they are so easy to munch down for lunch! I was informed by my friendly server that it was a good time to order (nobody was at the walk-up window, when I got there) so it would only be about five minutes. I got two burgers and one fry, no drink, and I pedaled away with happiness!! I am a chef, and I went to work early to eat lunch and boy were my coworkers jealous!! Ha ha ha!! If you have good for from another restaurant, you are the man! Anyway, the burgers were deelish! You can ask for whatever toppings you want! They take credit and debit cards now, so no worries. In the past, they were cash only! See you at the walk-up window... read more

Mac's Drive Thru - Doesn't look like much, but it very much is!!! - Burgers Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

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Mac's Drive Thru is a long-standing restaurant in Gainesville, Florida. The menu is definitely limited, but their cheeseburgers and French fries are pretty good and Mac's Drive Thru is a great alternative to fast food options. I pulled up just about lunch time and the drive through line was pretty long, but the line went pretty quickly. It is a drive-through, so there is no interior ambiance to speak of, but after getting your food they do have a few benches you can enjoy your meal at. Mac's Drive Thru definitely earned my recommendation and I will give it five stars overall. read more

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I really enjoyed stopping by Mac's picking up a hamburger or cheeseburger all the way, but my favorite is the fish cheese with extra onion and a cup of water. My own complaint is it seemed like the prices get higher and higher each time I stop in the food is good hot and fresh just the prices read more

Best Homemade Burgers and Fries and Sweet Tea DriveThru I ever been through and I will always make a "Special Trip " to Gainesville just to get me a Great Burger and Fries Combo from Mac's!!! Great Food and Great Service and Ambience is in the air smelling of the Hamburgers and Fries cooking helps you know that the food is worth it and I promise you that you will be coming back again really soon like Tomorrow. read more

So this is getting 5 stars based off my husband's taste buds however they'd get 5 stars from me solely based on looks and smell. We just stumbled across this spot and man what a delightful surprise. Talk about an old school joint serving minimal, made to order items. The smells were intoxicating and the burgers were cooked to perfection. This man devoured his burger before we were a block away. Our little did some damage to her burger and fries as well. We live in Jacksonville and happened to be in the area for a powerlifting meet, but we will definitely drive back again just to eat here. read more

Mac's Drive Thru - Burgers Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

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We wanted to grab some fast food for lunch and the local Yelpers in Gainesville convinced us to try Mac's. The menu was no-frills; short and sweet, like an east coast In-n-Out. Similar to In-n-Out, there was a fairly long line of cars in the drive thru, but it split into two lines once on the lot and moved along at a decent pace. Other Yelpers mentioned that lunch hour is extremely busy here and we can attest to that, as the line for Mac's extended well onto 10th Ave when we exited. On to the food... What Mac's lacks in menu variety, they absolutely shine in quality! The burgers were cooked to perfection, like the best backyard cookout burger you've ever had. The fries were wonderfully crisp, not too greasy or salty. Alongside an ice cold root beer, it was a perfect lunch to satisfy my burger craving. Would definitely return on a future visit to Gainesville! read more

Mac's Drive Thru - Cheeseburger and fries - Burgers Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Would give it 10 stars if I could, one of the best burgers I've had in awhile.. Meat seasoned well, condiments and toppings tasted fresh and were nice and crispy Fries reminded me of McDonald's they were delicious!!! Sweet tea top notch, next time I'll ask for lite ice. Will put this on my list of places to frequent when in Gainesville read more

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So good! The burgers are great. The fries are even greater! It's a limited menu and the line of cars (it's drive through only) is long but it moves quickly. You order at a speaker on which you can actually hear and understand the person you are ordering from. When you want just a great burger and fries, this is the best place in town. read more

Good burger, could have used a bit more ketchup, it was a bit dry. The line was long as usual but wait was only about 15-20 min. A bit long today. I still love the burgers but today's visit was not as good as it could have been. Still, I'll be back. read more

A little DIY spot that's doing it right is something that everyone should be looking out for as you just can't go wrong with that! Coming here was simple as I was on the road and I was able to get through quickly and grab a totally yummy burger! Of the few yummy choices I went with the double bacon cheeseburger as that just sounded good and let me say it totally was as the meat was cooked perfectly along with the bacon and this burger was just what was good for this adventure that also had some fries! Of the drinks I went with their strawberry which pretty much tasted like strawberry Fanta but it made for a totally yummy bubbly! Their associates were friendly and nice as well as quick service that was delightful to interact with! Overall this is an awesome burger place that's doing it right but be aware as it can get really busy as when I was leaving the line was already down the street! read more

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Good cheeseburger! Drive through only. Burgers, a few sandwiches and fries. Nothing fancy, but tastes good and fresh! read more

Mac's Drive Thru - a sign for mac's drive thru - Burgers Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

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There is nothing remarkable about Mac's---they just serve a straight up tasty burger with fries! The shakes are great too. The service is excellent unfailingly friendly and although the line may be long, it moves quickly and efficiently! I also like the fish sandwich. And they have root beer. Happiness! Mac's is one of the places in Gainesville I will miss. Go get some tasty lunch and think how jealous I am! read more

I was really looking forward to trying this place, but unfortunately, my cheeseburger and fries were just okay. I'm not sure what all the hype is about. To make things worse, there were some concerning interactions in the parking lot, including people asking for money. We even met someone who recommended Bev's burgers in High Springs instead. read more

WOW! The burgers are AMAZING! Great flavor! Such nice workers serving the food! Service was great! Love the old time vibes it gives off! Great fries as well and lemonade!! 10/10 recommend read more

They have the best burgers in Gainesville! There's always a line, but Service is fast! A must visit if in town!

1. Parking and surroundings: Just a few spaces, if you want to park, order through the front window and eat alfresco, there's two park benches in the side of the building. Almost everyone orders through the drive through window. Ambiance: Just a stand alone building, some heavy traffic will tell you that you won't be dissapointed. Food: Pick your itemized items through the speakers.... fries comes out hot, crispy, tasty, just perfect. You can order your burger or cheeseburger all the way, like I did and you will find that the lettuce, tomatoes and onions are all fresh, yes, I said fresh. The juicy burger has an incredibly natural rich and flavorsome taste. Not too seasoned, not too bland, just right, not dry like fast food chain rest. I did enjoy this meal while parked in my vehicle. I would not hesitate to go back, or repeat. From 1 to 10 I will give it an 8. On Yelp I give it 5 stars. Where else can you grab a fresh good tasting quality burger for a good price? read more

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Twice had burgers Mac's way, fries are fresh. I had some wait in the drive thru but well worth it. Looking forward to trying the Cuban!

Fast service, good size portions and GREAT TASTE!!!! I don't live in Gainesville but this will be my spot to grab food when I pass through! Next time I will take pictures, also the prices are very good! read more

This take out burger joint used to be a place that you could depend upon for a quick but very good burger and fries. That was then with the original owners. Today was truly disappointing the burger was overcooked and assembled very sloppy. Had enough mayo to grease a pig and the fries were greasy and floppy. These new owners are not doing justice to a restaurant with a great history and following. My last trip ever read more

Drive Thru only... but C'mon... it's in the name. Absolutely one of the best values in Gainesville. Classic Burger and Fries. You're not going for gourmet options here... just a classic smash style burger at an excellent price. Line is long, service is quick. Fresh ingredients and its just a good burger at an absolutely great price. read more

I was thrilled when I got the change to pull up to this Gainesville Favorite!! I've heard many great things about the Homestyle Burger joint from their delicious burgers, fries and convenient location and they were right! I purchased 2 double cheese burgers, fries, and a large sprite, needless to say I was Full, and wanted to get the FULL experience lol. My take on the meal was over all good. The burger itself was cooked throughly and seasoned, just the bun edges were a little questionable with the "half-toastedness" still good. The fries are 1 standard size which was okay and the large drink was super big and I was pleased!! The drive thru lines were moving swiftly and the area was pretty clean. I also enjoyed the patience of person taking my order as a new customer. The service was quick and efficient. One unique attribute of the drive thru experience, if you are the traveling by yourself, go to the far right drive thru windows if you are traveling with a passenger you can pull into the center window. Please don't be like me and pull in the center window and had to stretch far to get my food lol #FirstTimer lol Welp, if you stop by anytime soon try one of those tasty burgers! See you then!! read more

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I've been trying various burger places around Gainesville when I'm in town. This place is my favorite so far. It's a PURE drive thru. No place to sit anywhere or even park for that matter. The burger was very juicy and the fries were hot. I'll be back...probably many times. read more

Super solid drive thru. Service was extremely nice and the food was great. The menu was simple burgers and fries. The fries reminded me of the fries from... mcdonalds in the 1990s. i hope its not trouble to say that. i think the fries back then were a lil saltier but they offer that at the window. The burger is fresh and great. I would pick this over any franchise. read more

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Yummy place if you're craving something fast and greasy. Skip the generic, lesser chains. Mac's is better. I loved my chicken sandwich with cheese, the service was fast, and the outside decor is cute-- but don't plan to eat there. It's strictly drive-thru. There may be a picnic table. AmericanBacon CheeseburgerChicken SandwichDouble BurgerDouble CheeseburgerFish SandwichHam and Cheese Sandwiches read more

All the food was incredible. It's a perfect place to grab food if you're on the go. The drive thru line was long but it moved super fast.

Honestly, one of the best cheeseburgers and fries I've ever had. It is simple but delicious. They have two drive thru windows and service is fast. I'm sad that I'm no longer nearby to get them anymore but I recommend them to everyone else! read more

The food scene in Gainesville is seriously lacking, but Mac's drive thru is a gem! Note--they're only open Monday-Friday so no weekend burgers! Also CASH ONLY. I would be mad about these facts, but the burgers are too delicious to get mad. And I don't even like burgers! read more

Mac's Drive Thru - Burgers Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Wow what a find !!! Never judge a book by it's cover. The food in this unasuming drive thru burger "JOINT" paralels any gourmet burger charging 4 times the price. We normally dine on Daniel Bulud's Palm Beach flagship restaurant "Cafe Bulud" for their burger at $28.00. While here, you get just as tasty a cheese burger and fries with all the fixings for under $8.00 It's even more fun to eat it in the car. LOL. Good job Ron !!! read more

Went out for lunch on a workday (which almost never happens for me) and decided to go to Mac's. First up, it hasn't really changed over the years. The drive-thru still backs up into 10th during lunch, and it is still faster to park either across the street or in the small parking lot there on property (I ride a motorcycle... makes it easy to get into that lot). So the walk-up was the way I went with it. Ordered a couple of burgers and some fries, then stood there to wait. People came up and put their orders in while others collected orders when they were ready, and then it was my turn. Grabbed the food then went back to work to eat it at my desk. The fries are always great from here... highly recommended. They sometimes don't get enough salt on them but asking for a bit of salt is not a problem. Always good. The burgers are simple but tasty, and I always get them all-the-way which means lettuce, tomato, and a bit of onion along with mayo and ketchup, but no mustard. All good to me, as the two ingredients that I don't like on burgers (pickles and mustard) aren't on it! Seriously... I go through a fast-food drive-thru and order a burger, my standard order has "no pickle or mustard", regardless of whether they put either of those items on the burger in the first place. I mean, I can deal with pickles if they are put on by mistake, because I can just take them off... but mustard? Time to go back! This is why I never go to Krystal's! Those guys are mustard happy! OK, a bit of a rant there. Sorry. Really, for local burger joints Mac's is definitely a good choice! read more

Great food and service all around!! Definitely recommend this small hometown "hole in the wall" establishment. Privately own locally. read more

Great small establishment. A no frills burger with excellent flavor. Would not hesitate to go back

The cheeseburger I ordered all the ingredients was fresh and delicious. I believe they serve the best french fries in the Gainesville area.

This place definitely has an old Florida charm to it, reminds me of Bev's in Alachua. The staff were very friendly and at 1:30 on weds we didn't have much of a wait. The fries were perfectly salty and hot, but eat them quick as their allure fades quickly as they cool. My burger was yummy, but holy cow does it come with a ton on strong onions! After removing half the onions (and wishing I had gotten the double patty) I devoured my burger as fast as I could chew! Size wise, it is about the same as a kids happy meal, tasting like a few less chemicals than McD. Would I come back, sure. Especially for the price! But I wouldn't drive out of my way and I'd make sure we were in nostalgia mode and not a hangry lunch rush. read more

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Always hot and delicious every time I go! Always stop when I am in Gainesville. It's a must

A classic cheeseburger and fries joint that, unlike the commercial chains, gets the order right and isn't a sloppy mess when you bring it home. They aren't gourmet burgers and it is just as the name states: a drive thru so no seats or fancy dining. The wait is longer near lunch time and they close kind of early. The price I paid for my cheeseburger and fries was 4.22. Good burger, good price is the bottom line. read more

Mac's Drive Thru - Menu and a note while passing the drive thru - Burgers Near Me - Gainesville, Florida

Fast, simple, delicious hamburgers and fries. I have only been once but will go back every time in Gainesville.

Drive thru takes 30 mins at 2pm, burger is same quality and size as McDonald's but it cost 7 dollars instead of 2. Fries taste still frozen inside and also cheap. read more

Basically they serve homemade fresh hamburgers for a GREAT price and the Burgers are soooo soooo delicious they always have a line in the drive thru. They also have walk up service but no dine in. Nobody cares. The burgers are FABULOUS. They have grilled cheese and a ham sandwich but nobody gets those. I bet. Probably. Also they recently started taking- credit/bank cards!! Best burger HERE. GOD ALMIGHTY this anit no joke. read more

Literally the best quick burger I've ever had in my life. My only regret is that MIAMI where I love doesn't have anything remotely like this. It's the best best best! I still crave it and hope I can have it again! Always get fries and the cherry coke! Cash only! 9-5 M-F read more