What Fatburger Is and How to Order

Fatburger is a fast-casual burger chain where you order at a counter and receive your food at a table or to take out. Unlike a traditional fast-food drive-through, you walk up to the register, tell the staff what you want, pay, and then wait for your number to be called. The chain specializes in customizable burgers — you choose your patty size, toppings, and condiments rather than ordering preset menu items.

Most Fatburger locations operate during lunch and dinner hours, though hours vary by location. You can find the nearest restaurant and its hours by visiting their website or calling ahead. When you arrive, look for the menu board or ask staff about current offerings, which may include burger options, hot dogs, chicken sandwiches, salads, and sides like fries and milkshakes.

Key Takeaways

  • Fatburger lets you customize your burger by choosing patty size, meat type, and toppings rather than ordering a fixed menu item.
  • You order at the counter, pay upfront, and wait for your number to be called — there is no drive-through at most locations.
  • Prices vary by location and what you order, but a burger meal typically costs more than a traditional fast-food burger because portions and customization are larger.
  • The restaurant cooks burgers to order, so wait times are usually longer than a standard fast-food chain.
  • Most locations accept cash and card payments, though some may have payment preferences — ask when you order.

How to Customize Your Burger

When you order, staff will ask you to choose your patty. Most locations offer beef, but some also have turkey, chicken, or plant-based options. You then pick your patty size — typically single, double, or triple. After that, you select your toppings from a list that usually includes lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, mushrooms, and cheese varieties.

You also choose your condiments: ketchup, mustard, mayo, hot sauce, or house-made sauces. Some locations offer specialty toppings like bacon, fried eggs, or grilled onions for an extra charge. The staff will confirm your choices before ringing you up. If you are unsure what to order, ask the person taking your order for a recommendation — they can tell you what is popular or what pairs well together.

Understanding Wait Times and Food Preparation

Because Fatburger cooks burgers to order rather than keeping them under heat lamps, your wait will be longer than at a traditional fast-food restaurant. Expect to wait 10 to 20 minutes depending on how busy the location is and how many customizations you request. During peak lunch or dinner hours, the wait can stretch longer.

When your order is ready, staff will call your number or name. Pick up your food at the counter and find a seat. If you ordered to go, they will hand you a bag. Check your order before leaving to make sure everything is correct — if something is missing or wrong, tell staff right away and they can remake it.

Payment Methods and Pricing

Most Fatburger locations accept both cash and credit or debit cards. Some newer locations may be card-only, so bring a card if possible. Prices vary significantly by location — a burger in a major city will cost more than one in a smaller town. A single-patty burger typically ranges from $8 to $14, and adding a second patty, specialty toppings, or bacon will increase the price.

Combo meals that include a burger, fries, and a drink are usually available and may offer slight savings compared to ordering items separately. Sides like fries, onion rings, or a milkshake cost extra. Ask about any current specials or promotions when you order, as some locations run deals on certain days or times.

What to Know About Dietary Restrictions and Allergens

If you have food allergies or follow a specific diet, tell the staff when you order. Most locations can accommodate requests like no cheese, extra lettuce, or substituting a plant-based patty for beef. However, because the kitchen handles multiple ingredients and allergens, cross-contamination is possible — if you have a severe allergy, ask to speak with a manager about preparation practices.

Fatburger does not publish a detailed allergen menu on most websites, so your best option is to ask staff directly or call the location ahead of time. They can tell you which ingredients are in their sauces, whether their fries are cooked in shared oil, and what options exist for gluten-free or vegan diets.

Differences Between Fatburger and Other Burger Chains

Fatburger positions itself between traditional fast food and a full-service restaurant. Unlike chains like McDonald's or Burger King, you customize each burger and wait longer because it is cooked fresh. Unlike a sit-down burger restaurant, you order at a counter and there is no table service. The price point reflects this middle ground — more expensive than a drive-through burger but less than a restaurant meal.

The main trade-off is time for quality. If you are in a hurry, a traditional fast-food drive-through will be faster. If you want a burger made exactly how you like it and do not mind waiting, Fatburger offers more control over what you eat. Some locations have dine-in seating, while others are takeout only — check before you visit if seating matters to you.

Finding a Location and Checking Hours

Fatburger has locations across the United States, though the chain is not as widespread as McDonald's or Wendy's. To find a restaurant near you, visit the Fatburger website and use their location finder tool, or search "Fatburger near me" in Google Maps. The map will show you addresses, phone numbers, and hours of operation.

Hours vary by location — some open for lunch only, others for lunch and dinner. A few locations may have different hours on weekends. If you are planning a visit, call ahead or check online to confirm the restaurant is open, especially if you are traveling to an unfamiliar area. Some locations may be temporarily closed or have reduced hours, so a quick call saves a wasted trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to order at the counter, or is there a drive-through?

Most Fatburger locations do not have a drive-through. You order at the counter inside the restaurant. A few locations may have drive-through windows, but this is uncommon — call ahead or check the location's website to confirm if drive-through is available at the restaurant you plan to visit.

Can I order online or through an app?

Some Fatburger locations offer online ordering through their website or third-party delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats. Availability depends on your location. Check the Fatburger website or search your address on delivery apps to see if ordering ahead is an option near you.

What if I do not like my burger after I order it?

If your burger is wrong or you are not satisfied, tell staff when ready while you are still at the counter. They can remake it or adjust it to your liking. Once you leave the restaurant, it becomes harder to resolve, so speak up right away if something is not right.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?

Many Fatburger locations offer plant-based patties or can make a veggie burger with lettuce, tomato, and other toppings. Ask staff what options are available at your location, as offerings vary. You can also order just sides like fries or a salad if you prefer not to order a burger.

How much should I budget for a meal?

A single-patty burger typically costs $8 to $14 depending on location and toppings. Adding fries and a drink brings a meal to roughly $15 to $25. Prices are higher in major cities and lower in smaller towns. Check the menu online or call ahead if you want to know the exact price before you visit.