If you’ve ever stood in line at Five Guys wondering whether the hefty price tag on that juicy patty is justified, you’re not alone. The chain’s reputation for generous portions, fresh toppings, and a no‑frills approach draws crowds, but the cost can feel steep compared to a typical fast‑food burger. This guide breaks down the numbers, the options, and the little‑known quirks that make Five Guys a distinct experience.
By the end of this article you’ll know exactly how much a fully loaded Five Guys burger runs, how to tweak it to fit any diet, whether you can get it delivered, and what hidden menu gems might be waiting for you. We’ll also cover wait times, kids’ meals, and the truth behind the price premium, so you can decide if the bite is worth the buck.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- A standard Five Guys burger starts around $7, but adding premium toppings can push the total to $12‑$15.
- Customization is unlimited – you can add or remove any of the 15+ toppings without extra charge.
- Five Guys offers a veggie patty, but it’s not a full vegetarian menu; sides like fries are gluten‑free if requested.
- Delivery is available through major apps, but expect a higher total due to service fees and potential minimum orders.
- Typical wait times range from 5 minutes during off‑peak hours to 15‑20 minutes at lunch rushes, with a “no‑wait” option for drive‑throughs in some locations.
Evaluating the Value: Are Five Guys Burgers Worth the Price?
Five Guys positions itself as a premium fast‑casual brand, and the price reflects that stance. The beef is never frozen, the buns are baked fresh daily, and the toppings are sliced on the spot. When you compare a plain burger to a comparable offering at a major chain, the taste difference is palpable – the meat is juicier, the potatoes in the fries are hand‑cut, and the overall portion size is larger. For diners who prioritize flavor and quality over a $5 price point, the extra dollars feel justified. However, if you’re hunting for a quick, cheap bite, a traditional fast‑food chain may still beat Five Guys on cost alone.
Breaking Down the Bill: Average Cost with Toppings and Extras
A single patty burger starts at $7.99, while the double patty bumps it to $9.99. Each additional topping—think bacon, grilled onions, or jalapeños—doesn’t carry a separate charge, but the sheer number of options can influence perceived value. A fully loaded double with cheese, bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a handful of veggies typically lands between $12 and $14. Add a side of their famous Cajun fries ($4.79) and a drink ($2.49) and you’re looking at a $20 meal for two people. Seasonal promotions occasionally drop the price, but the baseline remains consistent across locations.
Side Orders and Pairings: What Comes with Your Burger?
Unlike some burger joints that bundle fries or a drink with the sandwich, Five Guys sells everything à la carte. You can order a side of their classic or Cajun seasoned fries, a small cup of their hand‑shaken milkshake, or a simple side salad for a healthier complement. The fries are famously generous—often enough to rival a small order at a dedicated fry shop. If you prefer a lighter side, the chain now offers a limited “green bean” option in select markets, though availability varies.
Unlimited Customization: Building Your Perfect Burger
The menu lists 15 toppings, but the real power lies in the freedom to combine them any way you like. Want extra pickles and no ketchup? No problem. Prefer a double‑stacked patty with a single slice of cheese and a drizzle of mustard? You can request that without a surcharge. The staff prepares each burger in front of you, so you can watch the assembly and make on‑the‑spot adjustments. For those who love experimentation, try a “double‑decker” with two patties, three different cheeses, and a splash of hot sauce for a flavor explosion.
Vegetarian Options and Plant‑Based Alternatives
Five Guys introduced a veggie patty in 2020, made from a blend of vegetables, beans, and spices. It’s positioned as a side item rather than a full burger, so you’ll need to request a bun and toppings separately. While the patty itself is vegetarian, cross‑contamination can occur because the kitchen handles meat and plant‑based items side by side. For strict vegetarians or vegans, the chain’s fries (cooked in 100% vegetable oil) are a safe bet, but always ask if the oil is shared with animal products at your specific location.
Why the Premium? Understanding Five Guys’ Higher Price Point
Three factors drive the higher cost: ingredient quality, portion size, and labor‑intensive preparation. The beef comes from USDA‑approved sources and is never frozen, meaning the supply chain is tighter and more expensive. Buns are baked fresh daily in each restaurant, adding a bakery‑level labor cost. Finally, the open‑kitchen model requires staff to slice, grill, and assemble each order manually, which is more time‑intensive than the assembly‑line approach of many fast‑food chains. These investments translate into a pricier menu but also a distinct product experience.
Beverage Options: Are Drinks Included?
Drinks are sold separately. Five Guys offers a range of sodas, bottled water, and seasonal iced teas. In some locations you’ll find a small selection of craft beers or local brews, but these are not standard across the chain. If you order a combo at a rival chain, you’ll receive a drink automatically; at Five Guys you need to add it to your order, which can increase the overall cost but also lets you pick exactly what you want.
Hidden Gems: Secret Menu Items and Unofficial Hacks
While Five Guys doesn’t officially publish a secret menu, regulars have discovered a few workarounds. Ordering “All the Toppings” on a single patty creates a mountain of flavor without the extra meat cost. Some fans request a “double‑stack” with a single bun, effectively making a burger‑between‑buns that’s easier to eat on the go. In select regions, you can ask for a “cheese toast” – a slice of bread grilled with cheese on the grill, serving as a quick snack while you wait.
Gluten Considerations: Can You Eat Five Guys Safely?
The standard bun contains wheat, but Five Guys can serve your burger in a lettuce wrap for a gluten‑free alternative. The fries are cooked in 100% vegetable oil, but the oil is shared with the chicken and other items in many locations, which could pose a risk for those with severe gluten intolerance. If you need strict gluten avoidance, call ahead to confirm the kitchen’s protocol or ask for a dedicated fryer if available.
Delivery and Takeout: Getting Five Guys to Your Doorstep
Most major delivery platforms—DoorDash, Uber Eats, Grubhub—partner with Five Guys, allowing you to order the full menu for home delivery. Expect a delivery fee (usually $2‑$4) and a service charge that can add up quickly. Some locations also offer a “contactless curbside pickup” option, which eliminates the delivery markup but still saves you a trip inside. Keep in mind that delivery times can extend the wait by 10‑15 minutes beyond the in‑store estimate, especially during peak dinner hours.
Family Friendly Options: Kids’ Menu and Portion Sizes
Five Guys does not have a dedicated kids’ menu, but the standard single‑patty burger and a small order of fries are often suitable for younger appetites. Parents can request a smaller bun or a “mini‑burger” (half the patty) to keep portions manageable. The chain’s simple menu means there’s less confusion for kids—just pick a burger, choose toppings, and add a side.
Wait Times: What to Expect During Different Hours
During weekday mornings and late evenings, you’ll typically be served in under five minutes. Lunch rushes (11:30 am‑1:30 pm) and dinner peaks (6:00‑8:00 pm) can stretch the line to 10‑15 minutes, especially at high‑traffic locations near office districts. Drive‑throughs often have a separate lane that moves faster, but they may limit topping options to speed up service. If you’re in a hurry, ordering ahead through the app and picking up at the counter can shave several minutes off the wait.
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Five Guys burger without any oil in the cooking process?
The restaurant uses oil for frying fries and cooking the meat, but you can request a burger cooked on a clean part of the grill. Complete oil‑free preparation isn’t guaranteed because the grill is shared, so for strict oil‑avoidance you might need to ask for a plain patty served on a plate without additional cooking.
Do Five Guys locations offer any loyalty or rewards programs?
A few locations have experimented with local loyalty cards, but there is no nationwide Five Guys rewards program. Some third‑party apps occasionally run promotions that give points for Five Guys purchases, but these are not consistent across all markets.
Is it possible to order a Five Guys burger with a gluten‑free bun that isn’t lettuce?
Currently, the only gluten‑free alternative is a lettuce wrap. The chain has not introduced a dedicated gluten‑free bun, so customers needing a bread substitute must rely on the lettuce option.
How does Five Guys handle food allergies beyond gluten?
Staff are trained to note allergy concerns on the ticket, and they can separate toppings to avoid cross‑contamination. However, the open kitchen means complete isolation isn’t guaranteed. For severe allergies, it’s best to speak directly with the manager and request a dedicated preparation area if possible.
Yes. Some coastal locations offer a “Lobster Roll” during summer, while certain Midwest stores have added a “chili cheese fries” option. Seasonal drinks and limited‑time sauces also appear in specific markets, so checking the local menu online can reveal unique items not found elsewhere.



