7 Common Mistakes When Ordering a Five Guys Burger
Walking into Five Guys should feel exciting, not stressful. You get a lot of choices, and that freedom is what makes the place great. The problem is that it is easy to walk out with a burger that is too messy, too expensive, or just not what you hoped for. You want the kind of order that hits the spot, not something you regret halfway through. This guide helps you avoid the common mistakes that leave you frustrated. If you know how the menu works and what choices matter, you can get the exact burger you want without second-guessing.
1. Getting the regular size instead of the small
Five Guys’ portions are bigger than most fast food places, and ordering a regular burger means you are getting two patties by default. Many people think they need the regular to get a full meal, but the small already includes one patty and satisfies most appetites. When you go with the regular without realizing this, your burger can feel heavy and expensive for no reason. If you start with the small, you can still add toppings and customize without struggling to finish. You save money, avoid food waste, and enjoy a meal that hits the right balance without leaving you uncomfortable afterward.
2. Adding too many toppings
You want to take advantage of the free toppings, but stacking everything without planning turns the burger into a soggy mess that falls apart in your hands. The flavors start fighting instead of working together, and you lose the taste of the beef. Think about balance instead of volume. Pick a theme, such as bright and crisp or bold and smoky, and build around that. You will still get a satisfying variety without losing the structure of the burger. A focused combination makes the meal taste better and helps you enjoy every bite instead of rushing before it collapses.
3. Forgetting that grilled onions and mushrooms add moisture
A lot of people choose grilled onions and mushrooms because they sound flavorful, but they also release moisture that seeps into the bun. If you stack several wet toppings without thinking, the bottom bun weakens fast, and the burger becomes slippery halfway through. You can still use these toppings, but balance matters. Pair them with something that adds texture, such as lettuce or pickles, or ask for a lighter portion. With a little planning, you can keep the flavor you want without sacrificing structure. You end up with a burger that tastes rich but still holds together until the last bite.
4. Not trying different cheese combinations
Five Guys offers cheese, but many people stop at a single slice without testing how well the cheese can transform the burger. The heat from the patties melts cheese perfectly, and using two slices gives a creamier, richer bite. You also want to think about how cheese interacts with your topping choices. Sharp cheese highlights smoky flavors, while mild cheese supports sauces and grilled vegetables. If you never experiment, you miss out on one of the simplest ways to improve the experience. You do not need to go overboard, but a thoughtful cheese choice can make the whole meal stand out.
5. Skipping the sauce strategy
Five Guys offers a lot of sauces, and people often pick one at random or pile several without thinking about how they mix. Sauces control balance, and too many can overwhelm the beef. Instead of stacking mayonnaise, ketchup, and barbecue without a plan, think about the taste direction you want. If you prefer tangy, pick ketchup with mustard. If you want creamy, go for mayo with relish. You can also ask for sauces on the side and build as you eat. A smart sauce plan gives your burger personality without leaving it drippy or confusing.
6. Forgetting about bun options
Many people assume there is only one type of bun, but Five Guys lets you order your burger without the bun or in a lettuce wrap. If you want a lighter meal or you are picky about carbs, these options matter. The standard bun is soft and works well, but if you load up wet toppings, it can struggle to hold everything together. Thinking about the bun early can change the whole meal. If you pick a lettuce wrap, you get a cleaner bite and less spill. The best choice depends on how you build the burger, so consider the foundation before you commit.
7. Not planning for fries on the side
The fries at Five Guys are almost a meal by themselves, and many people forget that when ordering a large. If you grab a regular burger and a full fry without thinking, you end up with more food than you can handle. Sharing or getting a smaller size makes the meal feel balanced and stops you from leaving leftovers behind. The fries are worth having, but they should not overshadow the main order. Planning lets you enjoy the burger and fries together without feeling stuffed, rushed, or guilty about what ends up in the trash.
