Why Dick’s Drive-In Is Seattle’s Most Popular Burger Place | Eater Seattle

"A Seattle icon since 1954 with 10 Puget Sound locations, this no-frills drive-in sticks to burgers, fries, shakes, and ice cream—and that unchanging simplicity is a big part of the appeal. There’s no real choice: either you get a cheeseburger (boring but a bargain at $3.25), a Special (pickle-y relish and lettuce), or a Deluxe (a Special with cheese and an extra patty, an affordable full meal at $5.75)—though the true must-order is the thin, hand-cut fries, freshly fried in sunflower oil (gluten-free, vegan, and safe for those with peanut allergies). Milkshakes aren’t flashy and only come in vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate; they’re satisfyingly cold and thick, made with real ice cream, and taste like something real without unwelcome synthetic sweetness. There’s almost always a line, especially at lunch and late night, but it moves quickly, and everyone in Seattle eats here. Insider tip: you’ll pay for sauces (even ketchup; mustard is free), so skip the ketchup and get the tangy, slightly mustard-y tartar sauce—the tiny menu’s sleeper hit. Locals sometimes debate whether it’s better than In-N-Out, but it’s inarguable the fries are way better." - Harry Cheadle