As a former patron of Five Guys, I’ve recently decided to hang up my burger-eating hat and call it quits with this particular chain. Their steep prices have finally gotten the better of my patience and wallet. From my perspective, it’s hard to justify spending so much on a fast-food meal, no matter how good it tastes. So, let’s dive into the reasons behind Five Guys’ premium pricing – reasons that, according to the company, make their food worth the extra dollars, but for me, they’ve become deal-breakers.
Fresh Ingredients
Five Guys has emphasized that their commitment to using only fresh ingredients is a primary factor in their pricing. This ethos means saying no to frozen products and yes to fresh beef patties and vegetables. As the company points out, sourcing and maintaining a supply of fresh ingredients is costlier compared to using frozen or processed alternatives, but it’s a cost they’re willing to bear for the sake of quality.
Quality and Exclusivity of Ingredients
The company proudly sources premium and often exclusive ingredients for their menu items. For instance, the special beef blend from Schweid & Sons, tailored for Five Guys’ burgers, is not available for retail purchase. This exclusivity, as the company notes, ensures a unique taste experience, but it also adds to the cost due to the high quality and limited availability of these ingredients.
Portions
According to Five Guys, another reason for their higher prices is the generous portion sizes they offer. Their standard burgers are significantly larger than many of their competitors’, typically featuring two patties. Similarly, their fry servings are ample, often sufficient for more than one person. This generosity in portion size translates to using more ingredients per order, thereby increasing the cost.
Peanut Oil
Five Guys has chosen peanut oil for frying, despite its higher cost compared to other oils. The company highlights that peanut oil is not only healthier but also provides a superior taste for their fries. This choice, while contributing positively to taste and health, also impacts the overall cost of their offerings.
Customizable Orders
The ability to customize burgers with a variety of free toppings and sauces is a significant draw for Five Guys’ customers. As per the company, this level of customization allows for a more personal dining experience. However, maintaining a wide array of high-quality toppings incurs additional costs, which are reflected in their pricing.
Theodore Lee is the editor of Caveman Circus. He strives for self-improvement in all areas of his life, except his candy consumption, where he remains a champion gummy worm enthusiast. When not writing about mindfulness or living in integrity, you can find him hiding giant bags of sour patch kids under the bed.