RUDY — Restaurant in Toronto

In an age of gourmet burgers piled high with exotic toppings and experimental sauces, there's a profound satisfaction in finding a place that just gets the basics spectacularly right. Rudy, nestled on The Queensway in Etobicoke, is that place. It’s an unassuming spot dedicated to the art of the classic smash burger, but as I’ve discovered over multiple, enthusiastic visits, it’s the consistent quality, vibrant atmosphere, and one truly unforgettable dessert that elevate it from a great burger joint to a local treasure. My journey through Rudy’s menu has been a delicious exploration of their core offerings. I’ve tackled both the classic single cheeseburger, "The Rudy," and its more formidable sibling, the double-pattied "Rude Dude." The magic is in the execution. The patties are smashed thin on the griddle, creating wonderfully crispy, lacy edges while sealing in an incredible amount of juicy, beefy flavor. Tucked into a soft, yielding potato bun with melted American cheese, fresh toppings, and their signature Rudy sauce, it’s a masterclass in balance and texture. For those who appreciate a more savory, onion-forward experience, "The Crudy" and its single-patty version, the "Baby Crudy," are essential. Swapping out the standard lettuce and tomato for a generous helping of deeply caramelized, fried onions adds a rich, almost sweet dimension that cuts through the richness of the beef and cheese. It’s a simple twist, but one that demonstrates a keen understanding of flavor, creating a burger that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. A burger of this caliber demands an equally impressive side, and Rudy's skinny fries deliver in spades. They are, in a word, incredible. Each fry is a perfect golden spear—impossibly crispy on the outside with a light, fluffy interior. They are salted to perfection and possess an addictive quality that will have you reaching for "just one more" until the paper-lined basket is empty. They are the ideal, crunchy counterpoint to the soft, juicy burger. But here is the secret that keeps me, and many others, coming back with unwavering loyalty: the homemade banana pudding. This dessert is not a mere afterthought; it is the star of the show. Served in a simple cup, it’s a heavenly concoction of rich, creamy vanilla pudding, layered with fresh, sweet banana slices (these are without a doubt the best banana I've ever tasted). It’s pure, unadulterated comfort food, crafted with a homemade touch that you can taste in every spoonful. I confess, there have been times I’ve stopped by with the sole intention of grabbing a cup of this magnificent pudding. It is, without exaggeration, worth a trip on its own. What ties this whole wonderful experience together is the staff. In an industry where service can be impersonal, the team at Rudy radiates genuine warmth and positivity. Every visit is met with upbeat greetings and happy smiles. Their energy is infectious, creating a welcoming and joyful atmosphere that makes you feel good about being there. Rudy has perfected a winning formula: serve simple, high-quality food with passion, and treat your customers like friends. Whether you’re drawn in by the promise of a perfect smash burger, the allure of crispy fries, or the siren song of that divine banana pudding, you’ll leave with a full stomach and a smile on your face, already planning your...

Wanted to see what the place was about. Have driven by many times, seems frequently busy so I decided to give it a shot. Placed an online order, with estimated pick up time of 20 minutes. Decided to try a couple of burgers, fries, poutine and a milkshake.

Arrived at the estimated pickup time but the order was not ready yet so I had to wait. Seems a bit busy, with other patrons waiting for their orders as well. 30 minutes elapsed from estimated pickup time before I finally got the food. Wasn't happy about the wait but what can you do. The staff were otherwise pleasant.

I drove home where a family member and I proceeded to try the food. The burgers were "ok", if a bit burnt around the edges of the patty but nothing that screamed 'wow'. Fries and poutine were subpar. Tough and devoid of any moisture, almost as if they were day-old. Cheese curds were not melted. The milkshake was great though but expensive for the size.

Overall I am not sure if the experience and value proposition. The time issue is something I try to be objective about -- it's a tough spectrum between understanding the stress and challenges that the workers need to deal with, versus what is a reasonable time to wait for your food. The food issue is a bit more complicated, as Rudy's seems to position itself as a non-fast food burger joint. The burgers are small, expensive (but within reality) and if I am being honest, mediocre. That could just be my opinion though. Add in traditional sides (issues with the fries aside) and your spending a small fortune to feed just two people.

Rudy's otherwise appears to be doing fine, as can be discerned from the amount of customers. But I think it has some challenges cut out for it with a number of already established burger joints (non-fast food) with better value and quality within short...

First time I do a review and this one is well needed. My worst experience in a fast food/quick serve burger place. Cannot understand how come such a simple menu of maybe 4 different types of burgers will take you 40 - 45 to have 2 burgers ready (considering it was not even busy and they have 4 people working) the staff seems not to be caring or perhaps do not how run a cook workflow.

At one point my order was ready and was left on the counter for 10-12 minutes just waiting to be placed on a tray since it was for dine in , meanwhile the cashier was taking somebody's else order instead of handing the food first I had to ask her for my order and she said "yeah it is ready" while I was looking at the burgers getting cold there for a while.

I kindly asked for my refund as I did not feel any more good living this chaotic experience for just 2 burgers, and so I get out of this place before they worsen more the day. guess what? they were not able to give me a refund, the staff had to speak with somebody over the phone, she took my phone number and it has been 24 hours and nobody have called me to give me my refund yet, very serious and caring business, eh? (I had after 48 hours of waiting to call them and they cannot do it manually neither)

I truly can not understand how you have 4 stars or how you even were able to have customer support to open more locations in with this kind of service and product, this is overrated.

People were complaining about the food outside and eating your burger in just 2-3 minutes this is how small and cold it was. Delivery drivers were desperately waiting for their orders so they can continue carry on with their shift and you have wasted their time as was well - Chaos!

It was my bad that I did not read the reviews, will be more aware of...