5 Guys Burgers in Calgary?

[fullojoy]

I heard a rumour that a 5 Guys had opened up in Calgary - is this true, and if so where is it???

[Scary Bill]

Went to the MacLeod location yesterday. The meat had all the flavour of a boiled burger without seasoning, the bun a few hours away from being stale. The toppings were average, nothing special. That they use two small burgers, offset on a bun makes the bun fall apart as you eat it The fries were pretty good at first but as soon as they began to lose heat, the thrill was gone. Twenty two bucks and change for one small bacon cheese, one regular, one small fry and two small drinks makes the food even more tasteless. After three tries, no desire to return. I know I'll be slagged for this, but MacDonalds is better on all counts.

It really is an average burger joint, and expensive for what you get.

[The Gut]

I think it's expensive too but even though I have had subpar burgers in Calgary locations a few times. I've had more really great ones.

I finally made it to an "In-n-out" in Salt Lake City. Totally not what I expected. Good burger, tiny and it seemed like I was at the cafeteria of Co-op or Zellers when I was a kid. Awesome prices though.

[johnjohnson78]

My experience EXACTLY after 3 or 4 attempts to have lunch there. I had a little rant on urban spoon a few months ago after getting served a dogs lunch at 5 Guys and also declared that I'd rather eat a steamy little cheeseburger and crispy fries from Mickey D's.....and I meant it.

Now I just got home from a few days in San Francisco and Portland....that was some proper burger eatin'. Canada really needs to step up their game.....our neighbours to the south are simply embarrassing us on the burger field!

[The Gut]

Carl's jr? I wonder if it will be any good when it gets here? Anyone have it in Kelowna?

[johnjohnson78]

3rd time's a charm? Not so much. As a result of my sweetheart being out of town on Valentines day and the Flames stomping the Leafs last night, I had a bit of a hangover and needed a quick burger fix. Five guys is close....I feel pretty crummy......why not give it one more try?

Little bacon cheeseburger:

Patty: dry and flavourless
Cheese: not even close to melted
Bacon: burnt with an acrid taste (it's the one thing I did enjoy on my last visit)
Bun: ice cold
Jalapenos: bleh...could at least throw them on the grill for a minute
Fries: OK, at least 2/3's of them were a soggy and thrown in the trash
Heinz bottled vinegar: exquisite

Overall: Burger was not even remotely warm and was quite bland even though it was loaded with (what should be) delicious toppings.

Not trying to sway anybody's opinion here (we know that's not gonna happen) but perhaps suggesting that the new future shop location is not worth your time even though the lines are much smaller. I certainly won't be spending any more $$ there. I've had teen burgers and uncle burgers at A&W on road trips that were far better than the junk I was served today.

For the record I am not out to bash 5 Guys...I like their concept and wish there were more places like it in Canada. In fact some healthy competition in the premium fast food burger market would likely force them to tighten up their game considerably. Anybody been to Shake Shack or Steak and Shake in the U.S. of A?

After laying down 14 bucks for what was essentially a dogs breakfast....just had to vent...for the last time I promise! I hope the new Smash Burger people are talking about brings more to the table.

[The Gut]

I love them but how far in advance are they buying the buns? They seem expired in my opinion. I never noticed until they opened here.

[johnjohnson78]

Not sure to be honest but I agree the buns tend to be sub par here. On that note I never really had a negative opinion of 5 Guys until I started hitting this location because it's close to where I live. I've got a theory that their grille man/women are most likely total amateurs which is why I keep getting under-seasoned, cold, grey burgers with unmelted cheese and burnt bacon, etc. I think the owner(s) could benefit significantly by spending a couple more dollars an hour and hiring a couple people who know what they're doing and/or take some pride in their burger grillmanship. It's not like everything at 5 Guys is mechanized and fool proof (which I like about it) so the guy flipping the burgers actually does make a difference IMHO.

I like to think of 5 guys as a step above the greasy fast food chains who are often known to employ bitter teenagers who indifferently throw ingredients into paper bags. With all of the promotional material inside the restaurant reminding you of amazing they are.....they've got some higher standards to live up to. Just realized that's probably why I've been so critical.

[The Gut]

I have to say any time I have been disappointed I was comparing them to other times I was there. It's been great quite often. We went to the Deerfoot Medows location and I was quite unhappy with them, never could quite figure out a particular problem. It was at the point where I would probably drive to Airdrie from Ikea if I wanted their food.

This last time it was terrific. So I agree with you on both counts. They have set their own high standards to live up to and the person on the grill seems to make a big difference.

[johnjohnson78]

I tried the new 5 Guys Location on Macleod Tr this afternoon. I had a bacon cheese burger with grilled onions and jalapenos which was pretty darn good as expected. The 5 guys regular fries on the other hand were an under seasoned, soggy, oily disgrace! They were obviously fried in oil that was not nearly hot enough. I honestly couldn't care less about fresh cut potatoes if the end result is something awful.

It's worth mentioning that the young gal at the front till had a terrible attitude and couldn't have possibly been more disinterested in her job. I'll also note that there was plenty of garbage lying around the place even though there were only about 8 patrons in the restaurant.

Ultimately the burger was quite good but there were a number of subpar things going on that a good manager should be able to remedy. I noticed a real lack of professional management and attention to detail which is kind of inexcusable considering the place just opened. Somebody should be in this place looking out for their investment! I'm sure they're having some teething issues so I'll give them another shot in a couple weeks.

[djdragan]

Just had lunch there this afternoon, had a cheesburger with grilled mushrooms, grilled onions lettuce and jalapenos, very tasty and messy (like it should be). I also had an order of regular fries, they were nice and crispy today, JJ78, you must have caught them on an off day (still way to many for one person to eat). Dining area was fairly clean, there was someone busing tables and cleaning.

They were a lot quieter then I expected for that time of day (around 1pm). There were only about 3 or 4 people ahead of me and only about 1/2 of the tables were occupied. I did have to wait about 10 min or so for my order, not sure if that is normal or not. The guy that took my order seemed friendy enough, as was the guy that put my order together.

I did notice an older gentleman sitting at one of the tables with a laptop and a bot of 5 Guys stuff (hats, shirts). Maybe he was the owner/manager and everyone was on their best behavior?

[johnjohnson78]

Great news as the new location is about 3 mins from my house and I'd like to give them my business. I'm sure I did catch them on an off day when the employees were free to screw around without any supervision haha.

[djdragan]

Lol, its pretty close to where I work, so its nice to see another lunch option in the area.

[nonlinear]

Grabbed lunch from the MacLeod trail location today. all I can say is SLOW. i've been to 4 or 5 different locations and know it takes some time for them to prepare your food, but this was ridiculous. They had about 10 people standing behind the counter, but they spent more time standing around, talking and joking than they did doing actual work. It literally took 15 or 20 minutes for them to make me a burger and fries. LOL.

[johnjohnson78]

I went back for another burg on tuesday afternoon around 2:30....it was almost empty and fairly slow again. I ordered the small bacon cheeseburger and the only part of it that impressed was the ample portion of really crisp bacon.

Initially I was admittedly fairly impressed by 5 guys (for a fast food restaurant) but the more often I go, the more mediocre it seems to be. I really don't love the bun and the burger patties I've been served there tend to be dry and lacking in the beefiness and/or dark crust department.....at least compared to the best burger joints I've been to. I realize it's not everybody's cup of tea and it's probably against the 5 Guys business motto, but I'd like it if they had some kind of proprietary seasoning or sauce.... something that might make their burgers uniquely 5 Guys.

I know I'm being too hard on them. Nothing about my burger was bad at all, but at just under $10 for a small coke and a small bacon CB, I think it's fair to expect a pretty top tier burger....something better than adequate.

Rocky's Burger Bus FTW. Sorry for the rant folks!!

[nonlinear]

I've only been to 5 Guys about 7 or 8 times, but I like it A LOT better than Rocky's. I've never understood the fascination with Rocky's, actually... i can make WAY better burgers at home. to each his own, i suppose. :)

[hsk]

Any half decent cook can make way better burgers at home. It's the fries that are tough, without making a mess.

[johnjohnson78]

To each their own indeed. I do cook way better burgs at my home (on cast iron) on an increasingly regular basis these days...probably the main reason I'm enjoying 5 guys less and less.

As for Rocky's I'm a sucker for the great crust they put on that substantial beef patty. I'm actually long over due for a trip there. Will have to go this week for a fair comparison. Is it open when it's this cold out?

[Shazam]

Just as a point of comparison, a Wendy's single burger combo is now almost $9 without taxes.

Relatively speaking, Five Guys isn't that bad of a deal, and a hell of a lot better for that price point.

[johnjohnson78]

Valid point! I pretty much never get anything from Wendy's other than perhaps a JBC every 6 months or so......had no idea the fast food "premium combos" have been ratcheted up to the near $10 mark.

[Shazam]

I did go to the Macleod Trail location a couple of weeks ago. It's definitely much smaller than the Deerfoot location, and the line was inching because everybody, and I mean everybody, in the line ahead of us was asking about the menu.

The one thing I find is that sometimes the cooks don't put enough seasoning on the patties.

The Deerfoot location skimps on the fries now, which is annoying.

I still enjoy them though. I divide establishments into two categories: tip optional, and tip not required, and of the tip not required places, for burgers the place is right up there.

But if Rocky's had toppings in their burgers, they would conquer the world.

[23skidoo]

Single bacon deluxe combo (with "small" fries and drink which really aren't small) is less than $8.

[Shazam]

At the Wendy's near my work, it is $8.62 for a single w/ cheese, fries and drink.

[nonlinear]

I hear ya Shazam. Five Guys is way, way, way better than any other fast food chain in the city, and isn't much more expensive. can you make a better burger at home? Sure - but then again, this can be said about pretty much ANY burger in the city. I don't know, some people just like to complain about everything!

[23skidoo]

If that's the case I think they're upsizing your fries and drink to medium or large.

[nonlinear]

The burger combos at Dairy Queen are also around $10 - and their food is TERRIBLE!

[Scary Bill]

OK, just what were you doing there anyway? I figure that to be a self inflicted injury.

[nonlinear]

I actually worked the grill at a Dairy Queen in the states waaaay back in high school. I don't know if it was because I was just a kid, or if because we made all of the food to order, but I remember it being pretty good. So fast forward about 20 years (i hadn't eaten there since), and I got a burger from DQ one day and it was expensive and terrible. it tasted like it was burned carbon, but it wasn't burned. not sure how the got it to taste like that, maybe they didn't clean the grill. anyhow, i'm not sure how representative that was since i won't be eating there again haha.

[nonlinear]

There is a new location opening in the new Future Shop strip mall on MacLeod just south of Glenmore

[maplesugar]

Wow, how many locations is that now? They're just about finished one up here in Red Deer too. It's nice to have another option near Chinook. Thanks nonlinear.

[djdragan]

I think that will make it 2 locations in Calgary and one in Airdrie. Anyone know if The Mcleod Tr store is open yet? I was heading south on MacLeod last week and noticed that the sign was up.

[Shazam]

Went last week to take a look and it doesn't look anywhere near completion. They're still putting together the parking lot, even.

Oh yeah, the Deerfoot Meadows location has the full Five Guys menu now - hot dogs and sandwiches are now available.

[Doc1200]

Gold Rush town? LOL not sure what that means. As someone born and raised here this statement baffles me. As for Peter's the quality seems to have dropped when the original owners sold the place and retired. As a kid and young adult I can remember the patties being juicy and the Shakes were made with real fruit vrs the syrups they use now. It has always been a different type of burger with no lettuce or tomato, almost like a sloppy Joe like another poster had said but it still beats a 5 guys or any other chain burger in this city any day. Double cheese with extra sauce is the way to go at Peters :)

[Cambot]

Just substitute the word "gold" for "oil" and I think you'll know what he means. I only moved here two years ago from the US for work (not oil), and even I recognize this is a city growing rapidly on account of out-of-towners coming here for work. So by "gold rush," he means people come here like the 49ers who moved to California in search of riches (or at least a good living wage).

With that being the case, there's no reason people here don't deserve better goods, food, restaurants, enriching living experience, etc.

[nonlinear]

you think Peter's burgers are better than 5 guys? seriously? I think that's the first time i've EVER heard someone claim to like frozen, low-grade "hamburger" better than a freshly made patty.

Also, what do you mean "almost like a sloppy joe" - because when I had them, they were (very, very low quality) patties and not fried crumbled ground beef cooked in a chile-tomato sauce. i fail to see how they resemble sloppy joes in any way, except they include hamburger and buns.

[Cambot]

I don't claim to be a burger connoisseur (I grew up eating White Castle), but I happen to think Burger Inn (on Macleod) is better than both of them.

[Shazam]

What? No way is BI better than 5 Guys. Last time I went to BI it was terrible.

[Scary Bill]

Agreed. Went one and it was true crap.

[Shazam]

Yeah, I think they switched owners and it went totally downhill after that.

[nonlinear]

mmm, white castle... i ate that as a kid, too! so we both know that white castle is better than any burger ever made anywhere LOL!

[23skidoo]

It's because they're saucy and soft. The sauce tastes ketchupy. But maybe they're not like that anymore? I need to go back

(I like Peter's, but I like Five Guys more.)

[nonlinear]

ok, gotcha - i know what you guys mean about them being soft and saucy. man, now i'm craving peter's even though i don't really like those burgers. how does this happen LOL?

[Shazam]

Hmm, last time I went to Peter's they still used real fruit.

Everything tasted better when you were a kid. Know why? Because you were a kid.

[Scary Bill]

Lotta misinformation about Peter's here. They use fresh meat only, ground chuck, and fresh fruit. The fries and rings are frozen, but they are pretty darn good rings anyway, and a lot better than 5 Guyz,.....oh wait they DON'T HAVE ONION RINGS!!!.

Peter's is an original burger, and not to everyone's taste, but I'll go there every 2-3 months and enjoy it, like the 7 or 8 people that are usually in front of me in line.

Oh, and I'll pay much less than at 5 Guyz.

[23skidoo]

Nothing wrong with frozen fries. http://aht.seriouseats.com/archives/2...

[Shazam]

The onion rings at Peter's are McCain's. Nothing good about them other than quantity.

[Cambot]

They sell grocery store rings at a restaurant? For shame.

[Scary Bill]

Where else would they buy them? And please tell me how that matters?

[Cambot]

You get onions and slice them. Dip them in batter. Fry. Repeat.

[Scary Bill]

Ever run a restaurant business? Thought not.

[Cambot]

No, but I've worked at a couple when I was a student, and I personally prepped all the rings and fried side items. That's the kind of stuff the businesses I worked for did. Granted, that was in the Chicago area were consumers are more demanding, but the restaurants were, and still are, successful.

[Shazam]

Good Lord.

Obviously some places use prepared stuff.

Why do you keep bringing up Chicago?

[Scary Bill]

Name a *fast food* place that has better. I'd like to go there.

[nonlinear]

i only know of a few fast food places that actually serve onion rings, and none of them are fresh AFAIK. but, do you guys know those onion blossoms (or whatever they are called)? they have them at fairs etc. and i think like Outback Steakhouse. THOSE are awesome. i wonder where those can be found in calgary?

[josey124]

Montanas has them. I didn't like it though. I was really anticipating finally eating one but that wasn't a good one I think.

[Merry113]

I like the rings at Fatburger. Supposedly made fresh daily from real onions. Don't seem frozen. I also like the ones from A&W. Both are quite different from Peter's though.

[Shazam]

Yup, these two. A&W's are inconsistent but they can be very good.

I still like Peter's burgers for what they are, their shakes are from heaven (try chocolate + raspberry - PURE JOY), they give you a bojillion fries, and even their hot dog isn't bad.

They just have bad onion rings. I can live with that.

[dwightfry]

In light of the negative reviews for Burger Inn on McLeod, I have to defend BI on 4th. Their Superburger has been consistantly great for almost 25 years now. Nothing but love for that location.

Peter's, on the other hand, not so much. I always found their burgers kinda gross. As far as 'drive-in' style goes, I'll take CB's over Peter's any day.

[Shazam]

Hmm, looks like they changed owners or something because the menu is nothing like it used to be. I've totally ignored it since I had the last heinously bad meal there, but if it's been overhauled it's worth a try again!

EDIT: Looking at some pics of their food on US, they have definitely changed their food.

[nonlinear]

BLECH, i tried CBs once and would never go back again (I drove by this place twice a day for 7 years, if that means anything.) they have perhaps the lowest quality burger i've ever had in my life, no kidding. it's about the same in quality as the frozen No Name hamburger patties at superstore.

[Scary Bill]

That the board has opened up to discussing a lot of other burger places, I have to add Angel's Drive In in Bowness. Good food, great prices, and if you order any of the double burgers, be hungry and wear a bib, it'll be one of the messiest (in a good way) burgers you'll ever eat.

[KcM]

I like Angel's. Good fresh toppings, super nice owner/operator, they'll cook the crinkle-cut fries extra crisp if you ask (and I recommend asking...) but I am pretty consistently underwhelmed by their beef patty. It has the texture and shape of a frozen, pre-made, store bought patty...it's not bad per-se, just kinda meh.

[Scary Bill]

Agreed, I'm pretty sure it is frozen as well, the toppings do make it a bit of an original though.
I'll give Rocky's my #1 vote though I do wish there were a few more topping choices along Angel's lines. That combo would truly be outstanding.

[Shazam]

Rocky's burger with toppings would be an unstoppable juggernaut.

[Cambot]

I went to the south Calgary location and was underwhelmed. I compare this with burgers I'm used to in the States where I'm from (Chicago). It wasn't BAD, but I don't know why Calgarians line up as though this is the best thing there is. The meat didn't taste seasoned. The fries were WAY too salty. Again, you can't really screw up a burger, but you can make much better at home.

By the way, Peter's isn't great either. Maybe Calgary just doesn't have much to choose from.

[Cambot]

Yeah, I can't imagine a town where 5 Guys is the best there is. Okay, I can imagine one, but I wouldn't want to live there. It was 'good', but not 10 minutes in line, order, 10 minute wait for them to call your number (seriously? your number? is this the DMV?) 'good'.

I miss those Chicago sidewalk walk-up burgers/dogs shacks that are open 24 hours where they shout at you five places back in line to give them your order. Cash only and you generally get your change rounded off to the nearest quarter. Way better food for five bucks or less.

But you gotta eat in your car or on the curb, which is fine.

[Merry113]

But we're talking about Calgary....not Chicago. If you have other great burger places in Calgary to recommend, please do but waxing poetic about Chicago is not helpful on the Calgary board.

[Cambot]

You're right. I tend to get carried away. Some people on Yelp say 5 Guys has an "American feel," but the line, the wait, the order numbers just for a bland hamburger and fries is a little too clinical for me. I've said my peace about 5 Guys.

[Shazam]

Every time I've been there the fries have been hardly salted.

Remember what this thing costs. There are of course better burgers but they cost more money.

[nonlinear]

peter's is terrible, i think people recommend it because it's an institution, not because it's particularly good food.

[TSAW]

I despise Peter's burgers. I get the 'stink eye' from other Calgarians when I say this. Rubbery meat topped with red gloop is not my idea of good. But my SO actually sneaks over there for burgers all the time. Go figure..I don't get it!

[Cambot]

I think people like Peter's because, all the way up to when you actually bite into the burger, it *seems* like an authentic old fashioned burger joint experience. It's a privately owned and not McD's/BK/Wendy's etc. Like most restaurant owners in Calgary, and Canadian "institutions" (Tim Horton's) they've realized they can cut every corner possible, and people will keep throwing their money at them anyway.

5 Guys, while not what the hype would have you believe, is still better than Peter's.

[23skidoo]

I like Peter's because it's halfway between a sloppy joe and a burger. It could be partly nostalgia. I haven't had one in a few years though, so maybe it's worse than it used to be. I usually get trashed here for defending them... people get religious about burgers and pizza.

Try Rocky's Burger Bus. I haven't been yet, but it gets a lot of love on this board.

You're absolutely right that restaurants get away with cutting corners here. Maybe part of the reason is that customers don't care, but part of it could be cost. Fresh ingredients and labour cost more here than in the US, and rent is high for the size of the market. Transportation/delivery costs are high. Places that rely on premade crap with a long shelf life will get more business because they can charge less.

-----
Rocky's Burgers
1120 46 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G2A6, CA

[Cambot]

Thanks for the recommendation. A co-worker mentioned Rocky's Burger Bus over a year ago, but until now, I couldn't remember what the place was called.

But why should quality ingredients cost so much here? How can a growing city of 1,000,000+ not be part of the same supply chain and get the same goods as the rest of Canada?

-----
Rocky's Burgers
1120 46 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G2A6, CA

[nonlinear]

calgary is a gold rush town, it costs twice as much to live here as it does in almost any other place in north america.

[sharonanne]

I lived in Baltimore for a semester, groceries cost 10% more than they do here. Some restaurants were cheaper but not all. Crab was heavenly, they keep the best for themselves and export the rest, but overall, it wasn't food nirvana.

I am jealous of the produce my MIL gets in Berkeley but the meat isn't that great. I liked Chicago a lot, especially the Mexican food but the Chinese food here is better.

And so it goes.

[nonlinear]

really? i lived in the US for 21 years, and i travel there several times a year, and i still think things cost double here than they do there.

[Shazam]

Well, just like here it depends where you shop.

If you go to RCSS here, and go to Albertson's down there, you might be surprised.

[sharonanne]

I am certain. I was thinking I was crazy as I expected my food costs to be lower there. When I came back at spring break I compared item by item and it was more expensive in B'More.

[Shazam]

Alberta is far from food growing regions. Typical exported foods are usually worse in quality than what the locals eat, especially for produce. Since Alberta has to import nearly all its food during our very long cold season, we are at the mercy of market prices.

Wages are higher here. That necessitates higher prices in general. Labour demand is still quite high here.

[Scary Bill]

I have to admit I'm surprised by the hype, having eaten there for the first time today. The burger is good fresh meat, typical beef flavour, and the topping selection is excellent, aside from the plastic American chedder slice. The bun is nothing special, just a soft sesame coated bun (though not many seeds). What it does do is stand up well against the other large burger chain competition, nothing more.

The Cajun fries were kind of meh, I had expected a bit more flavour and zip, and the quantity lived up to expectation. If I go back, I will have the regular fries.

The lack of onion rings is a sin, not a mortal one, but a sin nontheless.

I'll stick with Rocky's, even though that means eating in my car for the ten month's of winter here and risking burger debris running down my shirt .

[Shazam]

It's a good value. $20 feeds two.

[Scary Bill]

We had a double, a single, a regular fry and one bottle of water and it came to just under $20.

[The Gut]

I somehow like that wierd cheese sometimes and typically avoid processed cheese on burgers. I really love the fresh toppings and the choices. I prefer the Airdrie location not certain why.

[johnjohnson78]

I tried 5 Guys about a week ago and must say it's the best fast food burger I've had in Calgary. As per the recommendations on this thread I decided not to go crazy with the toppings and my burger stayed together just fine.

I ordered the smaller burger with bacon, cheese, gilled onions, BBQ sauce, jalapenos, lettuce and mustard.

Bacon was really good and crisp and I loved the sauteed onions and fresh jalaps.

All in all it was a delish burger and I don't have any real complaints which is pretty rare since I'm fairly serious about my burgers haha

[spudnik15]

I didn't go there expecting such a busy place to be so good, we are Peters Drive Inn regulars, I was rather puzzled as to their location next to Fat Burger, which I have only been to once, anyhow the food was great, I had the cheeseburger and my wife had the little bacon cheeseburger and we split a large fries, we will definitely be going back, when we are in the area.

[julie17]

There may be line-ups, but they do move fast with 2 tills working. Love the place!

[seemac70]

Real simple.

Five Guys rocks!

Large fries feeds three.

The burger was awesome. It ain't no slider.

[howlin]

i hate this place ,i can never get in there.lol

[seemac70]

As Yogi Berra once said;

Nobody goes there anymore. It's too crowded.

The game was on, we only waited 5 minutes!

[Jetgirly]

Is the Airdrie location open?

[josey124]

late time I looked it was far from opening. But I can check on the weekend and report on the progress.

[josey124]

We drove by yesterday. The building is finished and they are working inside now. The counter is up. I couldnt see how much there is left to do but it looks promising. Especially since they were already working Saturday morning at 8.

[josey124]

Ok, I checked again today and they have a sign on the door. They are going to open on Jan 29 I think (it was kind of tough to read). They were training staff already!

[slingshotz]

I'm still amazing how packed that place is. I thought that for sure the fad would have died out by now and it would be "normal" busy. And to be honest, I was really doubting why they picked that odd location.

However, I just can't get enough of their fries, they are so tasty absolutely plain with no spices or ketchup.

Fatburger must be cringing whenever they look at the crazy lineups at 5 Guys. I just hope that one day In-Out will look at the success of 5 Guys and come up here, but I definitely won't hold my breath.

[Alexa]

From what I've heard, In-and-out only opens up locations that is within less than one day driving proximity from their meat, bread, produce, etc. supplier which is somewhere in California which is why there are only locations in California, Nevada, and Arizona.. So unless things change for them it dosn't look like they'll be coming to Canada any time in the near future...

[John Manzo]

We tried to go to 5G for a Saturday lunch (I know, I know) 2 weekends ago and the lineup was mind-boggling, at least 30 deep, so we went to Fatburger (which I LOVE btw) instead and it was packed; not 30 deep but very busy. In fact every place I poked my head in at DFM was packed. 5G has done nothing but help the other eateries there.

[thewiff]

Hubby and I were there yesterday and we have a new favorite burger place. Wow. It was just all kinds of good. We both had the little bacon cheeseburger, and split an order of regular fries...thank goodness. There were enough fries there to feed four people I think. Really enjoyed the fries, and will try the Cajun next time just to compare. The burgers though. I have to admit, one of my all time favorite burgers was the McDLT. Not high end, but I really like cold lettuce and tomato on my burger and the mayo was just the right flavor. Not the best meat in the world...but the rest I liked. So my 5 guys burger...ice cold lettuce and tomato, the mayo is great, AND topped off with an awesome burger. I was in heaven. Hubby's had mushrooms too, and he was a happy guy. Well worth the cost IMO, and I want to go back for dinner there tonight!

[KcM]

My wife and I have got our 5 guys routine figured out as well, and I'm much happier than the first few times we went.
- Little Cheeseburger and Cheeseburger
- Raw onion (the grilled onion tastes good, but makes the burger too soggy)
- Lettuce, no tomato (again, brings the sog)
- Ketchup, mayo, relish, but BBQ sauce and mustard on the side
- Regular fries (find the Cajun a little to much)
- Split a reg drink (Free Refills!)
Key for me is managing moisture on the burger.
I should also note that every time we've been there it seems like the soda a little "lean" (less syrup, or maybe just more carbonation if they are using pre-mix?). I really like that, my wife not so much. We also disagree on the "ambiance"...she finds it a little cold and off-putting, while I try to argue that it reflects a singular interest in good burgers...no extras, no decorating, no marketing, just burgers.

[Shazam]

Fountain drinks are always variable. I used to work in a convenience store many years ago and those things were a huge PITA to keep working properly. That and the slurpee machine... Grr.

[petemare]

5 Guys opened November 2010, in Deerfoot Meadows by Ikea, AWESOME!

[Lothandra]

33 heritage meadows ways se this is the address for 5 guys

[Roarasaur]

I luckily had the opportunity to try 5 guys burgers last friday and only had it once before in Orlando. I had gotten the small bacon cheeseburger with grilled onions, mushrooms, lettuce, mayo, and bbq sauce and my oh my was it good. The cheese was melted just right and the bacon still had a nice crunch on it. The cajun fries were seasoned just right but I didnt like the texture too much. Or rather, I prefer crispier fries (like the ones from costco) and the unlimited refills was a huge plus.
All in all, it was pretty good but still pricey for my taste. A good place to go only once in a while, or else my gut will be bursting at its seams.

[pasaker]

I LOVED IT!!!! FIVE GUYS BURGER is for me! I mean we can criticize it all we want, but really they are goooood. I mean come'on they're so easy to order from and we get free peanuts!!!! I'm a sucker for little stuff like that, but honestly I feel they are a genuine burger place. I ordered a Bacon Cheese Burger and it was soo good, I mean yes it was squished in the bag with the tin foil, but it was still delicious and honestly there is something that a messy burger does to you... it makes you happy. I was happy wiping my mouth after every bite and making a nest of napkins around me. Their drinks have free refills and the burgers are made fresh to order. I'm happy. I'm very happy. :) :)

[julie17]

Thank you, pasaker! Your review (above) hit the nail right on the head. I took husband there a few days ago and he was impressed with his regular (double) burger and bagful of fries and refillable sodas. After happily chowing down on his burger and my last 3rd of mine he filled his paper boat with peanuts and munched on those. He was in heaven!
Its too bad they don't do onion rings.

[Doc1200]

Thought the burger was quite good. I went with the suggestion not to go crazy on the toppings and I think this is the way to go. I also noticed that my burger was wrapped in the foil super tight which kind of squished the bun a bit but the burger did keep its shape. Only complaint would be the cheese, I would prefer the cheese to be melted on the patty while being grilled instead of applied cold after cooking. As far as the fires go I though the Cajun style were awful. The seasoning was over powering so I only had a few but next time I would try them plain. Place was crowded and very busy but in the end it only took about 20 minutes to get our order which was impressive considering how many people were lined up to order/waiting to pick up their order. On a side note I'm sure Fatburger are less than impressed with another specialty burger joint opening right across the street in the same shopping complex. They were dead at 7PM on a Friday night.

[beggsy]

Agree on the cajun fries - too overpowering. Burgers were great and even with a line-up out the door, service was fast. (I would have happily settled with one slice of cheese on the two patties - two was a bit much.

[The Gut]

Interesting, the fries seem to be good both times we went, somewhat fresh and crispy. I switched from Ketchup and mustard to BBQ sauce, should be an improvement but had the oposite effect for some reason.

The bun doesn't suck here but it's not great either. Hopefully that will improve. I never noticed them at the locations out of town but could be the ketchup and mustard covered for a mediocre bun.

[sweeterpea]

Hubby went on lunch break yesterday and was a bit underwhelmed. It was packed, but service was very fast. The person serving him wrapped his burger so tight in the foil that it squished everything down, so maybe that had something to do with him being underwhelmed.

He said the fries were somewhat disappointing after reading the reviews here. He was anticipating them highly after seeing the piles of fresh potatoes, haha. I don't think they were cooked properly and maybe were rushed because of the crowds. He said they were limp and soggy. Indeed they are huge - shared between two guys and still leftovers.

He scored them the same as Fatburger, and thought In and Out were better.

On a further burger note, we went to Dalhousie Station Earl's last week with the family and I had their Bronx Burger. I know Earl's gets panned here quite a bit, but we were quite amazed by this burger. Fresh house-made brioche bun, and a juicy house-made chuck patty with just the right touch of char. I could have done without the chunky bracelet-sized onion rings on top, but the red pepper relish nicely complimented the burger. Husband is a onion-ring afficiando and thought they were quite good. Worth a try!

[Shazam]

Went on Wednesday. Got a little bacon cheeseburger with "everything". Toppings were excellent. Overall I thought it was great. Fries while not supercrisp were still very good and had great potato flavour. It was crazy busy but very fast.

I thought it was way better than Fatburger. It's not really comparable to In'N'Out IMHO because of price point and also because the burgers are totally different.

In regards to Earl's, they've always had a great burger over the years. It's their other entrees that are hit and miss.

[nonlinear]

if you want a towering burger held together by a toothpick, 5 guys isn't the place for you. they sling burgers by the sack, and it's messy enough to eat as it is.

[sweeterpea]

He wasn't expecting that. It was like someone had held it down with considerable force while wrapping it and squished it. He didn't feel like lining up again to complain.

[Bob Mac]

sweeterpea:

We were out on the coast in October and tried the Bronx Burger at the Marine Drive location of Earl's in North Van.

I too enjoyed it but ate the onion rings separately....told our waitress that they ought to add the onion rings to their menu as an independent appie or accompaniment

[Bob Mac]

sweeterpea:

Your post was an incentive to head to our local [Edmonton] Earl's for lunch.

My wife had the bigger, better burger but managed to sweet talk the server into adding a couple of onion rings whereas I had the Bronx Burger.

Enjoyed it, as well as the onion rings, again. Nice combination involving the salty cheddar cheese, the aioli and the red pepper relish.

[sweeterpea]

Great that their burger is consistent. We usually go as the kids like the menu - not too expenisve and appeals to everyone in the family.

[julie17]

I went yesterday to try 5 guys out and it was amazing! OMG! A "small" burger isn't smaller, its one 1/2 inch patty. The "regular" is two patties. Much more that I would normally eat. There were 3 of us and we decided to get only 1 fry as you guys said the fry orders were large. Well, they were. A small fry comes in a 8oz coffee cup size then they put that in the bag with your burgers and dump another cupfull of fries on top of that. We shared the fries and it was more than enough for 3 people. Yes, a little pricey, but worth every penny. Wish they had chocolate shakes, though. Its located in Deerfoot Meadows (near the auto mall, not Deerfoot outlets) on the same part of the plaza where Petland is. Happy eating!

[julie17]

Wow! a new burger place opened in Cowtown! I was away for a week and missed the grand opening but I will go today and check it out. It sounds like it tastes a lot like Rocky's, so I'm happy I don't have to travel as far. I too didn't like Fat boys either. In and Out was great when I tryed them in Arizona,but I don't remember their frys being special. Choc shakes were good.

[23skidoo]

Be prepared for a bit of a wait for your food! The place was busy.

Had the cheeseburger with "everything" (about half the options for toppings). Nice tall burger that was juicy and didn't taste like it came from a fast food chain. Next time I'll probably get it without cheese because the huge slab of velveeta makes it a little too filling. Either that, or a "little" cheeseburger (single-patty).

Also, definitely preferred the Cajun fries to plain.

[foodkarma]

Reviews are encouraging. I had my first Five Guys bacon cheese burger (with lettuce, tomato, grilled onions, mushrooms, and mayo) and Cajun fried 2 days ago but in Brooklyn. Wasn't sure how this new location would fare but most of the reviews sound promising, I loved the flavour, juicy patty, in Brooklyn and even though I'm not a big fry person - was impressed with the large bag o' fries and the cajun seasoning. I'll definitely give the Calgary location a try.

[The Gut]

We drove. I noticed the 73 stops in front of the Golden Arches, very close to 5 guys. My buger patty was over done but that didn't ruin it. Two little hamburgers one little cheeseburger 4 drinks and a large fries plus supplementary peanuts fed my family of four. (yes the kids are small still) the fries were crispy and terrific. Just over $29. Pricey but not really for Calgary.

I got barbeque sauce, bunch of veg including green peppers. I'm happy!

I'll take the little guy for a bus ride sometime when it's not quite as "suck" weather to eat peanuts and french fries and report back on wether it's too much hassle.

[greatdane12]

I am with slingshotz in that they have to improve their bun. Next time I will order less toppings as my burger was a bit too messy for my liking and basically fell apart before I could finish it

[The Gut]

I wonder if ordered the buns too soon thinking they would open earlier. They seemed like when you get to the end of a loaf of wonder bread or somthing.

I hope it warms up a little. I don't know if I want to hang around outside waiting for a bus.

[worldwidestuff]

Early dinner. Great Burger, fries were crispy, personally I prefer the fries from In-N-Out.

[The Winger]

I just got back to the office after lunch and contrary to the above post loved it. I have been to other locations in Phoenix and Houston and found the taste and quality to be identical here. Technically they don't have Double burgers, they have a burger which happens to have 2 patties. My burger was outstanding, and the fresh jalapenos are a nice touch with the fried onions. I had the Cajun fries and just as down south they give you way too many fries and the are fresh cut and incredible, very similar to Rockys burger bus fries, nothing at all like the frozen crap you will get with most burgers in Calgary. This place is a must try.

[cn1822]

Just got back from there as well, and I have to say I liked it. I ordered a Bacon Cheeseburger with a side of Cajun style fries. They give a lot of fries, and I mean a lot; it comes in a cup but there were basically a bunch of fries in the paper bag. The burger was great and you can top it off with as much (or as little) as you want. THe price is a bit steep but I can see myself coming back again.

P.S. The picture of the fries down below was taken AFTER I ate a lot of them already.

[slingshotz]

You must have been sitting right next to us as I remember that exact moment of the photographer standing on the ladder taking photos lol.

I think the first guy must have gotten a the bad batch of first fries. I have to say that the fries were AWESOME. They are the style of Rockys but not everyone like that style of chippie. It's a little silly how much they give you but judging by the sacks and sacks of spuds it looks like it might be right.

I got a more plain bacon cheeseburger with onions, mustard and tomatoes to properly judge the taste of the burger. I can definitely taste the higher quality meat and the topping were fresh. Not a huge fan of the sesame bun, I prefer the more slim In-Out style of bun. I'd say that if you want a meat orgy, then go for Rockys burger but if it's a more balanced offering then 5 guys is the way. It's waaaaaay better than the salty crap that was a "burger" at Fatburger. I still rank In-Out the best out of all burgers I've tried so far but since the chances of In-Out coming up here is the same as America getting rid off all their debt, this will have to do.

[The Winger]

I was sitting directly in front of this table and was just standing up to leave as the group picture was being taken! I was ticket number 21 and was wearing a Stampeders jacket.

[cn1822]

It's pretty funny that it was all chowhounders eating at the same-ish time. I was the girl attempting to eat a burger that was way too big.

[slingshotz]

I was tempted to stand up and ask everyone from Chowhound to raise their hands lol. So I went back again today for lunch and ordered a more simple burger as close as possible to In-Out style to compare properly and I have to say that the only thing letting 5 Guys down is their bun. But the place was absolutely packed today compared to opening day, hope they continue to have success in the location.

[cn1822]

I'd say that's a good sign considering it's been downright miserable these past few days. I'm hoping for the chance to go again... I want some fries. I've always wondered the influence/impact of Chowhound on how well businesses do in Calgary... It'd be an interesting study.

[23skidoo]

Frozen fries doesn't mean crap, and fresh cut potatoes don't always make for good fries either: http://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/20...

[John Manzo]

Almost every french fry I've had in Europe has come from a bag and they've almost all been superb. By comparison, the fresh-cut fries at Swiss Chalet are too often undercooked and greasy, inedible really, so I totally agree with you!

[tex_in_yyc]

Managed to sneak in between waves of customers for lunch today myself. Burger was good, although I've had better 5 Guys elsewhere. The cajun fries (btw...anyone order regular fries? seems like we all had cajun..) were good and plentiful. I may go to regular fries the next time, the cajun loses their thrill halfway through the bag.

They seemed to have 100 people working the grill, service was pretty decent. Price is still a bit steep for a fast food burger, but at least it tastes like there is some quality in it. Knock $2 off the total burger/fry/soda combo and it'd become a heavy hitter on the quality/value scale.

[slingshotz]

Tuesday November 16th at 11:00am I was told that it would be the grand opening. Drove by last night and it looked like it was 99% done.

Price seems reasonable if the burger is as good as hyped to be, $5 little burger up to $8.50 for bacon cheeseburger. I have my Tuesday lunch booked off!

[The Gut]

I'm crazy excited about this. We drove by and there's staff inside getting things ready. I also checked where the 72/73 circle route stops near the superstore I'd estimate aproximately 2-4 blocks walk.. I wouldn't say taking the bus would be great but I would say it would be worth it.

[Roarasaur]

You sir sound dedicated...

[The Gut]

I love a good burger and for me they are some of the best. I'm pretty sure anyone finding out about the place from me is getting set up for dissapointment.

[slingshotz]

Too bad the weather forecast is terrible tomorrow, hopefully it doesn't distract from the opening. If I see someone crawling through the snow from Superstore towards 5 Guys, you can jump in my truck as I drive by tomorrow :)

[hclass]

Is it 100% opening tmrw? I work fairly close so will have to make an attempt to finally try 5 guys

[The Gut]

Thanks for the offer. I drove but I plan on doing a "recon" bus trip for sometime when it's not as "suck" outside.

[cn1822]

Hmm here's hoping that when I show up today it'll be open...

[300rwhp]

Is it open ? I need to know as I am about to drive down there.

[nonlinear]

You could always try calling them.

[300rwhp]

i would need a phone number

[hclass]

Yes it is open. I was the first customer at this location this morning. I ordered a double cheese, fries and drink and total came to about $13.65. The fries were nothing special so I wouldn't order them again. I did get quite a few toppings on the burger so it was big and messy. However I didn't really taste the meet and this was the downfall imo. I was really hoping it would be better for the price, I'll have to go back within a week and just get a burger with minimal toppings to get a better opinion of this place.

[John Manzo]

I am not snarking, but what makes fries something special?

[piano boy]

A fry using a fresh potato and double frying it for that soft middle, crispy outside... It can be a thing of beauty.

The $13.65 price is too steep for me... but I'm cheap.

[John Manzo]

I was asking hclass- I know fries can be culinary ecstasy, but from what I've heard, 5 guys' fries ARE pretty damn outstanding, so I want to know what hclass would prefer.

[hclass]

John truly I would prefer an onion ring option. I enjoy fries most when having a poutine. I only order fries once a year and I had maybe 7 out of the 500 my bag contained. Next time with a larger group I will get a bag of the cajuns instead. I just wanted to get the full five guys experience.
Anyway I did pay 5 guys another visit. This time I limited my toppings so my burger could actually stay together. Once again the order was screwed up bc I somehow ended up with grilled mushrooms. Quite a few of them dropped out of the burger and I ate them and they had no taste and were truly cold. Also the patty was dry and fell apart. Other then that it was a good burger and my SO really liked the velveeta cheese.
This place is def a cut above other fast food burgers joints but I still can't taste the beef. I noticed they don't steam it like many other juicy burger joints I enjoy.

[Scary Bill]

"Other then that it was a good burger" LOL

I"d be curious to know what was good about the burger as you pretty much crushed it for being improperly made (with mushrooms), with a dry patty, and tasteless. What's left?

I wish you had marked some of my exams in university!!!

[nonlinear]

LOL, well put.

[hclass]

A burger has lots of elements besides the patty. Fresh bun, fresh veg (If you're into that) and lastly good melted cheese. All 3 are just as important as the patty. Five guys delivers on those fronts but I'm still not feeling the beef.

[Jayt392]

Five Guys will be in Calgary in the SE in November 2010

[Peasantwench]

I noticed a sign for it in Deerfoot Medows this weekend that you can see while driving down Deerfoot. Near the Ikea, I think. Couldn't tell if it was open or not, but then, it was late Saturday night.

[23skidoo]

So it'll be in the same parking lot as Fatburger?

[nonlinear]

yes and no... (that area is a giant design disaster.)

you could walk from fatburger to 5 guys in about 3 minutes, though.

[slingshotz]

I drive by the location every day and it still does not say when it is opening. Only says opening soon and hiring now. Maybe I should apply and then find out when it opens :)

I'm a little concerned about their choice of locations, it's not the most prominent but I hope that it turns into a word of mouth place like Rocky's.

[Merry113]

Deerfoot Meadows is very prominent.....Rocky's not so much.

[Shazam]

They're opening somewhere in Calgary. I don't know where but here's the employment ad for them:

http://calgary.kijiji.ca/c-jobs-bar-f...

[Alexa]

I know they just opened one in the White Rock B.C. area, and a few are scheduled to open throughout the Vancouver lower mainland.. So I'm not surprised that they're opening one in Calgary as well...

[John Manzo]

Airdrie- see above discussion.

[Shazam]

So when they say Calgary, they mean Airdrie? Doh, I was hoping they'd actually have one in Calgary proper.

[Scary Bill]

I think Calgary means, well, Calgary otherwise they'd say, well, Airdrie. And according to a Globe and Mail article they have pretty big expansion plans to be across Canada soon.

Also here's an article written apparently by a Calgarian that puts the Five Guys burgers and fries into perspective, a bit of a contrast to the unbridled love shown here for what seems like a pretty standard chain burger made fresh.

http://warpsixbbs.wordpress.com/2010/...

[Merry113]

It really only puts it in to perspective vs Lick's (and I guess Wendy's). I must say that it didn't make me think any better or worse of the place. I think in the end everyone has to try it for themselves. It is a burger & it is fast food but it's like the pizza discussion...everyone likes different things. I don't really see "unbridled love" on this thread.

[John Manzo]

Airdrie is a suburb of Calgary. Just as with the shops in Crossiron Mills opened they advertise their CIM locations as "Calgary." I am not getting my hopes up and am assuming that they do in fact mean Airdrie.

[hsk]

If you click on map you get a point on Bridlewood Ave. SW - not sure if that's where it's going or just the address of the person who posted that ad but definitely not Airdrie.

[John Manzo]

Oh that's a huge improvement for those of us who live inner city :) But sure, Bridlewood, fine.

[Scary Bill]

A little bit of sleuthing suggests that the Alberta franchisee lives in the Shawnessy area. The postal code for the Airdrie employment ad is a small strip plaza in Bridlewood, likely a new head office for the franchisee, as it is not a realistic location for an operation like Five Guys.

[Scary Bill]

Oh, and I emailed them asking about a Calgary store and they never answered the question, jutst providing the usual corporate doublespeak nonsense.

That kind of personalised service (which they profess to offer in their restaurants) tells me to avoid their ordinary burger and fries which I will. I'll stick with Rocky's, Tommy, Barley Mill, Peter's, and (surprisingly) Woody's.

[John Manzo]

I emailed them repeatedly and never heard a word- not even corporate doublespeak!

[worldwidestuff]

Peter's Drive In? Really?

[nonlinear]

Haha, Peter's has just about the worst burgers in the city. Blech. The burger patties are made out of a "meat" slurry/paste - NOT ground beef.

[Merry113]

AND they have 1 1/2 to 2 patties which is one of the reasons the article sited didn't like 5 Guys.

This further proves my point that "best burger" is very, very subjective.

[nonlinear]

I have to disagree. I think pretty much ANYONE would like something (pizza OR burgers) if it's fresh and made with high quality ingredients, regardless of the style/genre.

The problem with both pizza and burgers in Calgary is that 95% of it is crap assembled onsite from canned and frozen factory ingredients. And the few good burger and pizza shops that actually make things fresh are well known to all.

[Merry113]

I agree with that. I never said anything different. But if someone says "I won't be going to 5 Guys" which from what I've heard does have some focus on quality and says "I will instead go to Peter's", it must mean that something is subjective b/c I think Peter's hamburgers are disgusting.

There will always be people who argue that McDonald's are the best (not me) that's what I meant by subjective.

Not sure what I said to make you think that I am in love with Calgary's food choices (I'm not) or that canned and frozen factory ingredients are what I think is good. A bit confused.

[DeeDub]

I was down in Kalispel, MT for the week and they have a 5 Guys. I must say it was one of the best chain burgers I have ever had. I had to excercise some self control when it came to the toppings though. Sicne all toppings are "free" I wanted to load up but I also knew if I added the hot sauce, BBQ sauce, mayo, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles et al. it would turn into a sloppy mess. I did the regular bacon cheese with fried mushrooms and onions with ketchup and mustard. The beef patty was nicely seasoned and the bun didn't fall to pieces. Same cannot be said of my wife's burger but she went for "the lot" which truned her burger into a broken mess.

The fries were fantastic. I loved the fact that there was a white board by the cashier stating which farm in Idaho provided their potatoes. For my wife, daughter and myself the bill came to just over $20 although based on the discussion on the MedHat location, I am thinking Canadian prices may be north of that. I am looking forward to the Airdire/Calgary opening whenever/wherever that may be.

On a small tangent, Nonlinear... I picked up some Hunt's ketchup at the local Super 1 foods in Columbia Falls. I now know why you are fanatical about this ketchup. Way less sweeter than Heinz.... and no HFCS!

[23skidoo]

I, for one, love Peter's. Tastes like it was steamed in ketchup. Mmm. There's a time for a fancy burger with varying textures like lettuce and tomato, and there's a time for the single-flavor burger at Peter's.

[slingshotz]

"Tastes like it was steamed in ketchup"

I guess everyone has different tastes, that is one very unappealing description to me lol.

[Scary Bill]

I think what 23 really meant was "bathed in the aroma of essence of tomato and exotic herbs and spices"

[katidyd]

Bill -
Do you write copy for a living? That was some good spinning. Can I call on you when I need my next description for one of our products?
Went to Peters last week for the first time in ages. Only had one bite of a burger so I probably didn't get the complete essence...but the onions rings were fabulous.

[Scary Bill]

Kati:

No, I'm just of a generation that had to learn readin' an' writin'. Today though i was a bit in the ozone since i was imbibing with an out-of-town friend last night and the caffiene wasn't doing the trick. I'm a little more freeform when in that state and never know how it will manifest. And yes, call on me anytime. (what is your product?)

Agreed on the onion rings, they're as good as they get.

And finally, for all the Five Guys proponents, (as well as those who like the old In-And-Out) some ringing support for your position:

http://shopping.yahoo.com/articles/ys...

[Shazam]

LOL!

[80malibu]

I saw a sign at a construction site in Airdrie and FiveGuys was one of the businesses going into the building, next door to the Mister Mikes on the south end.

[electroleum]

This place looks pretty interesting, but I'm not about to drive all the way down to Med Hat just to try it. I'll wait for a Calgary location.

[WaWa]

Thought I would jump in here...WE are in the Hat and went last night with our kids. Tasty indeed, but not perfect. the eats were yummy but a littel dear, two adults and three kids was $50 which to me is a little dear for burgers and fries. they ran out of pickles which I am not sure how you do when you are across the street from two grocery stores....
It is super noisy, it was completely full but to that the stereo was added at a high volume.

The tables are really close together, some schairs you almost needed a shoe horn to get into as the chair behind was so close. the bathrooms were much the same only one sopt to stand in to get the door open ang get out...think rv bathroom.

We did enjoy the food though; tried not to think about the fat and sodium which I cna only imagine to be through the roof. I had a junior burger , bacon cheese, lettuce, fried onions, mushrooms. I think that was it they call it "the lot?"....next time I would skip the mushrooms and have raw onions. My husband had jalapenos I would have that next time too, I snuck one of his and they were tasty on the burger. Cajun Fries were a nice seasoning. Fries are definatley fresh cut so nut crispy liek a precooked /twicecooked frie.

Would I make a road trip for this? Not in a heartbeat, definatley worth visting but driving 5 1/2 hours round trip for never. Just not that much better than burgers I have had elsewhere.

[slingshotz]

Sooooo any reviews or updates on the place in Medicine Hat?

[worldwidestuff]

Can you believe it? Nobody said anything yet.

[nonlinear]

I drove through on the transcanada just before new years, and saw a 5 Guys billboard that said "opening soon." maybe they're not open yet.

[raidar]

They are open. I've had two separate friends stop in, and both liked the experience; giving the burgers a thumbs up.

[worldwidestuff]

Road trip!

[sweeterpea]

Found this posting re: Five Guys in Medicine Hat:

http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/678655

My husband is already planning a road trip!

[raidar]

Sounds like a plan worldwidestuff!

[ewertro2]

yes I have experienced the 5 Guys burger and Fries, and man was it good!, great big loaded and juicy.... excuse me as I wipe the drool off.... MMMMMM.... the restaurant in Medicine Hat has been lined up out the door since they opened.....

[Major_9000]

Very exciting, I'll be in MH on the 28th...can you guess where I'll be eating?

[77kanata]

Opening in MH on Jan 8. Billboards up, announcement in the MH News. In a strip mall very close to Walmart. Will be going opening day

[worldwidestuff]

Dang. This just may be the reason to go there.

[slingshotz]

How does 5 Guys compare to In-Out? There's not a snowball's chance that In-Out will ever make it up here, so if 5 guys is as good, I'm going to be camped outside on opening day lol.

I also did some digging and it seems that Medicine Hat is going to get the first store, not Calgary for some odd reason. It's supposed to be at the Medicine Hat Power Centre or 109 Strachan Rd., Medicine Hat, AB. Anyone from Medicine Hat on here that can tell us if this place exists? I don't want to make the drive all the way down them only to find that it's a farmer's field....

[worldwidestuff]

Anyone had both 5 Guys & In-N-Out and can compare?

[John Manzo]

How about comparing it to MOS Burger, since we have about the same snowball's chance in hell of getting one here?

(MOS Burger is a Japanese chain and it kicks ass).

[nonlinear]

nevermind. it's AMAZING what you can do with google these days :p

[John Manzo]

I ate there (twice) in Singapore- what an incredible experience. The cheeseburger was not that special but I had an unagi burger with a bun that was rice cake, like what you get with sushi pizza- blew me away, along with perhaps the best fast-food fries I've ever tasted.

[howlin]

i think that MOS burger would be a good idea for calgary.its rather unique (and that unagi burger looks good).van has japadog ,calgary needs something like that.mabye mos burger fits the bill.just my thoughts

[nonlinear]

i went to their website, it looks awesome. apparently, they have an 'ultra-premium' burger that is $10.52 - expensive burger for a fast food chain. i would LOVE to try it!

[howlin]

beats a 15 dollar fatburger(yuk).but i agree i would like to try it as well,but as john mentions "a snowballs chance" it wont be happening without a plane ticket.....damb

[darelleats]

I called corporate proper a while back and they said that they were shooting for a January opening. I just emailed the local folks at the address on the Canadian website to see if there's any new news. Will update here when I hear back.

[John Manzo]

And what did they say when you asked about location? You DID ask for the location, right, Mr Journalist?

Incidentally Darell, something I've been wanting to say to you for a while, well two things: One is that I love your ffwd burger reviews. Second is that I completely disagree with the idea (I think I read this from you) that burger toppings should be cold. Nothing destroys a burger, IMHO, like cold toppings- well maybe lettuce. Lettuce destroys burgers completely. Pickles, onions and condiments should be room temp. IMHO.

[darelleats]

Thanks John! I stand by my personal preference for cold produce, but totally see where you're coming from. I like the contrast cold produce adds and have fond memories of these from my childhood: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTSdUO...

As for the Calgary location, Five Guys wouldn't tell me. They suggested that I call back closer to year's end. I have also not heard back from the local folks that I emailed, so I guess I'll call corporate again this week. Corporate also only mentioned the Calgary and Langley locations when asked if there were more locations opening in Canada when I called.

Will update y'all if I find out more!

Cheers,

Darell

[miss.foodie]

Checked the www.fiveguys.com website. They don't have the Calgary location posted yet.. but here is the info for the Langley location:

Thunderbird Village
201599 88 Avenue
Langley, BC V1M 0A4

[cancowboy]

Here's the website for Canada - minimal information besides corporate office contact.
http://www.fiveguys.ca/

[Smudge007]

I've never heard of 5 guys burgers, are they any good?

[raidar]

http://www.fiveguys.com/home.aspx

Fresh burgers Smudge, they have a passionate following and get quite the praise. Started out of Virginia if I remember correctly.

[katidyd]

yes, they started out in Virginia. they only do burgers, fries and hot dogs...but they do them VERY WELL. Lots of fresh toppings to choose from. The stores (at least in the states) do not even have freezers in them. If you followed the presidential campaign, this is where Obama went for burgers for lunch one day. They also give you peanuts in the shell to eat while you're in line. If/when they come - you need to give them a try.

[fullojoy]

Their bugers are SO GOOD! We tried them while in DC (before we saw the President go there) and couldn't believe our tastebuds. And you can add any toppings (including cheese or bacon) for free. they are mostly in the eastern states, but I saw there is one near Seattle...

[Jigga]

They are indeed opening a Calgary location - not sure where or when, but I know one of the guys involved in the venture. I'll post further if I hear anything else.

[peter.v]

Some googling shows that the first one has been looking for employees in Medicine Hat for their first location. The posting expires tomorrow. A USA Today article mentioned expansion to Calgary. Nothing on open dates or exact spots.
http://www.mhc.ab.ca/employment/stude...

[fullojoy]

Boo - too bad. Hopefully they make the move to Canada soon...

[beggsy]

They had a float in the Stampede Parade too. Weird that there is still no mention of a Calgary location. I checked back then and there was nothing at all for Calgary. Maybe they were hoping to generate interest....

[DizzyEdge]

Has anyone had both 5 guys and Fuddruckers? Fuddruckers is still the best burger I've had, although it was so long ago perhaps sentiment is getting in the way of memory.. and I've had In-n-Out too.