The hamburger is one of the most iconic and beloved foods in the world, a simple yet perfect combination of a ground beef patty, a bun, and various toppings. Its journey from a humble dish to a global phenomenon is a testament to its versatility and widespread appeal. A Brief History The origins of the modern hamburger are widely debated, but its roots can be traced back to the 19th-century German city of Hamburg. Here, a dish called "Frikadellen", a minced beef patty served with gravy, was a popular meal for sailors. When German immigrants brought this dish to America, it evolved. The invention of the ground meat patty served between two slices of bread or a bun is often attributed to various American innovators in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with many towns and individuals claiming to be the first. Regardless of its exact birthplace, the hamburger quickly gained popularity at fairs and diners, laying the groundwork for its future dominance. The Anatomy of a Great Burger A great burger is built on a foundation of key components that work together to create a harmonious flavor profile and texture. The Patty: The soul of the burger is the ground beef patty. The best patties are typically made from a blend of different cuts, often with a fat content of around 20% to ensure it remains juicy and flavorful when cooked. Seasoning with salt and pepper is essential to bring out the beef's natural flavor. The Bun: The bun provides the structural integrity and serves as a soft, comforting bed for the patty. A classic brioche bun is a popular choice for its slight sweetness and pillowy texture, while a simple sesame seed bun offers a traditional and satisfying experience. Toppings and Condiments: This is where the artistry comes in. Common toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles add a refreshing crunch and a tangy contrast. Condiments such as ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise are staples that provide a familiar flavor, while more adventurous options like aioli, caramelized onions, or a special sauce can elevate the burger to new heights. The Burger's Evolution From the simple cheeseburger to gourmet creations, the burger has undergone a remarkable evolution. Today's burger scene is a diverse landscape that includes everything from fast-food staples to high-end restaurant offerings. Many restaurants now focus on using locally sourced, high-quality ingredients, and some have even embraced plant-based patties to cater to vegetarian and vegan diets. The burger's adaptability ensures it remains a beloved and enduring part of global cuisine, a symbol of comfort, creativity, and simple, delicious...
Read moreOnline order pick up. I followed the instructions given.
The customer service was abhorrent. I waited 15 minutes to be acknowledged (it wasn't busy) and was finally given cold food. Got to the car and realized the meat was undercooked and cold, so I went back in. I let the person working the grill know that my burger was cold, like undercooked cold. They immediately got hostile and aggressive, saying "did you let us know you were here? No! That's on you!" I was hoping for a remake or refund, but I didn't even get a chance to ask before the employee got so aggressive and overwhelming that I left. In the parking lot the bag exploded and the burger ended up on the ground, so I sucked it up and dragged myself back inside to ask for a refund.
Three employees were leaning against the counter behind the register as I approached. They just stood there smirking at me until I asked if I could please speak with someone. The person who I'd spoken to at the grill came over, and very sarcastically asked how they could help (very fake, syrupy-sweet, and incredibly rude). I asked if I could please get a refund. They got defensive and scolded me that "[they] would have remade it." There was absolutely no indication of that, which I told them. By this point I was so completely and thoroughly embarrassed and belittled that I just wanted to go home. They quickly processed the refund, and I thanked them and left.
I was never impolite or unkind in any way. I was a food service manager for years, and I make it a point to treat people the way I wish I'd been treated. I'm honestly appalled at my experience. The employees weren't just unkind, they were deliberately mean and nasty. I was a weekly customer, but after that I'll never be back.
Please treat people...
Read moreThis is the third oldest five guys and oldest still standing so it is the best according to five Guys “Five Guys founder Jerry Murrell's mother always told him, "If you can give a good haircut or if you can serve a good drink at a bar or if you can serve a good hamburger, you can always make money in America. "Five Guys has been a Washington, DC area favorite since 1986 when Jerry and Janie Murrell offered sage advice to the four young Murrell brothers:"Start a business or go to college.” The business route won and the Murrell family opened a carry-out burger joint in Arlington Virginia. Under the guidance of Jerry and Janie the Murrell family served only hand-formed burgers cooked to perfection on a grill along with fresh-cut fries cooked in pure peanut oil. During the 1980’s and 1990’s the Murrell family perfected their simple system. Five Guys was The Place to get a fresh, juicy burger with all the toppings you could stuff between fresh-baked buns. A fifth brother was born and, as their family grew, so did their business. Four more restaurants with sit-down seating were added to accommodate the growing clientele.
Early in 2003, Jerry and Janie, together with the “Five Guys,” began offering franchise opportunities. In just under 18 months, Five Guys Enterprises sold options for more than 300 units. The overwhelming success of franchising a local restaurant made national news, with articles in trade publications such as Nation’s Restaurant News, Restaurant Business Magazine and the Franchise Times.
Now, 30 years after Five Guys first opened, there are almost 1,700 locations worldwide and another 1,500 units in development. Five Guys continues to receive generous media attention and has grown a cult-like following...
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