Burger Bonanza

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

3208-B Guadalupe, 452-4300
www.fiveguys.com
Daily, 11am-10pm

This Arlington, Va., restaurant chain was founded in 1986 and quickly spread up and down the East Coast. More recent expansion has Five Guys branching out around the country. This company has enthusiastic fans in many markets, and it wants to make sure you know it – its numerous awards are prominently displayed inside and outside the buildings and printed on the take-out menus. The first Austin outlet opened in November 2008, and another is scheduled to debut in the Arboretum in July.

Food is ordered at the counter, and things move along pretty quickly. The concept here is to do a few things very well. Fresh ground beef appears in regular and small burgers, cheeseburgers, and bacon cheeseburgers, with a large variety of free toppings. There are also hot dogs, regular or Cajun fries, sodas, and water. In keeping with our original plan, I ordered a regular bacon cheeseburger ($5.99), regular fries ($2.59), and a large soda ($1.99). Before I was done, the moist, flavorful burger had overwhelmed the bun, but I have to admit, it was a tasty mess. – V.B.W.