Where Unlimited Toppings Meet Burgers

Five Guys is a retro-styled burger joint that goes back to putting fresh ingredients into fastfood. A bright white-and-red sign proclaims their restaurant on the corner of Veterans Highway and Route 111, one of the main intersections in Hauppauge.  Step inside and up to the counter to place your order.

Make a choice of your burger, hot dog or veggie burger to serve as your base before selecting any combination of 15 toppings for free. All the basics of lettuce, tomato and two kinds of onions are listed, or be adventurous by adding jalapenos with A1 Steak Sauce. 

The Dish:  The Little Hamburger ($3.79) with Cajun French fries ($2.69)  What's Inside: All orders come wrapped in aluminum foil, keeping them warm and providing easy carry for take out orders.  The Little Hamburger's name might be deceptive to those unfamiliar with Five Guys. Inside is sesame seed bun with one hamburger patty, where standard "Hamburgers" consist of two hamburger patties, what might be considered a  double stack or double decker by other burger chains. This one was ordered with classic toppings of lettuce, tomato, grilled onions and ketchup. 

How's It Taste: The presentation can be a bit off putting, the burger compressed after being wrapped tightly in aluminum foil. In unwrapping the burger, fresh toppings spill over the bun, layered on without reserve.

The first bite shows the chains dedication to freshness. Crisp, textured lettuce over firm tomatoes  contrast a tender ground beef patty. The meat appears to be medium cooked, with little to no pink insides without being over done or charred. Fresh juices of the beef offer a hearty taste without feeling heavy or greasy.  

The Cajun fries are spicy with a low level heat the gradually builds on the palate. The spices aren't bright, immediately blossoming on first bite but tasted and gradually build as black pepper, paprika and cayenne pepper give the rustic fries a reddish color. 

Eat This Because: It's a fast-food burger made with fresh ingredients that delivers. Lettuce is still crisp, tomato firm without heavy grease. All the food is cooked in peanut oil though, so those with peanut allergies should avoid this chain. 

Sides: If you are looking for a healthier options, Five Guys serves up veggie burgers and offers free bins of salted peanuts to replace those French fries.