Sean I.
Yelp
Finding a decent burger isn't a difficult task. There are a few local options which I very much enjoy, like Moran's or Oneals. However, I welcome Shake Shack for a variety of reasons.
One, it's convenient. I downloaded their app, and ordered on Sunday and it was ready in 15 minutes. They make pick up very easy, and the customer service is top notch - I was walking my dog to pick up the order and an employee came outside with a homemade dog treat for him.
The interior has four touchscreen terminals to enter your order, similar to how the app works.
They have a dining area with about 10-12 tables, if you wanted to sit down to eat. If you are taking your food to go, they have both an interior waiting area or you can wait on the sidewalk.
As for the burgers, I would give them a rating of 8.1 out of 10. It's a good, solid backyard burger. The kind of burger you would expect to have on a sunny summer day grilling with some friends. In a place like Hoboken this is welcome because many of us don't have a grill or a backyard! I'm deducting a few points because they don't have an option for sauteed onions. This was kindly explained to me by a manager, due to the size of their grill and sauteeing onions could seep to their toasted buns for other orders. That makes sense to me, but come on. Get a second (side) grill or a side pan for special requests? The cost was $5.99 for a burger with a single patty.
I'm not a huge fan of the crinkle cut fries. Everytime I go there they taste like they are undercooked. I like my fries CRISPY and WELL DONE. Can we add an option to the app asking for well done fries? Fries are average. I'd like an option for onion rings as a side over fries. $3.09 for fries? Eh.
The shakes are on point. Delicious. Some may think they are expensive at $5.49 each, but Rita's Italian Ice a few doors down has milkshakes that cost more at $6.50 each.
My total cost, without tax was $14.57. I was pleasantly happy with my order. Would definitely go again.
I tried a few days prior the Chick'n Bites. Meh. Not a fan of the batter/crust on the bites. $5 for 6 pieces. Average of 5.7 out of 10. If you are hankering for chicken nuggets, Chick-Fil-A in Newport Mall is far superior.
Tried the Mango Passionade on another day. Again, average. Wouldn't order it again. Was underwhelming.
Overall, I think Shake Shack will be an overwhelming success in Hoboken.