Scott S.
Yelp
Two main conflicts for me with this review. First, the service was pretty rude, the cashier especially gave that "the customers are such an inconvenience" vibe. Second, as a Californian, it pains me to realize that I like Shake Shack burgers more than In-N-Out.
I had been wanting to try Shake Shack for years. Literally years. The timing just never aligned, and I don't live close to one, so it never worked out. But last week things finally came together.
I ordered a double shackburger, a smokeshack, French fries, iced tea, and an Oreo shake. Eventually.
The wait here to even place your order here for dining in is just exhausting. Like 15 minutes where the cashier studiously avoids eye contact. She didn't even want to give a small glimmer of hope that you would get service soon.
When I did order, it was very much "what do you want?". I don't need some gushy and over-enthusiastic greeting, but maybe just don't act like I'm being a burden by ordering food at a restaurant?
Anyway, after ordering, it was about 15 minutes to get my food. This despite there being literally 10 people working. I know because I counted. I don't know what's going on as a lot of the employees seemed to be standing around doing nothing, which explains the slow service. Anyway.
My food finally came, and my concerns were instantly gone. The burgers looked picture perfect, the iced tea was huge, and the crinkle cut fries were very enticing. My first bite of the shackburger was like a revelation - THIS is a proper In-N-Out competitor. The vegetables were fresh (looking at you, 5 Guys), it wasn't greasy at all, the patties had a nice crispy exterior and were juicy, the cheese was perfectly melted, the buns were soft. It was like everything you'd want in a burger.
The fries were also crispy and hot, although a bit under-seasoned. I couldn't find any salt, only ketchup, which for some reason they dish out with an ice cream scoop. Anyway, some good old Heinz and they were good to go.
I also have to say, the smokeshack was not worth it. It's not that it wasn't good, it's just that the regular shackburger was really perfect. The addition of bacon and chilies was unnecessary and detracted from the overall experience.
The iced tea was unsweetened, which is how I like it, and they certainly give you a lot.
The Oreo shake was of course great, you can't really mess that up.
Now, quick downside - the place was a bit dirty and disorganized when I got there. They were out of napkins and took forever to refill them. The bathroom wasn't that clean. Coupled with the service I can't really give 5 stars no matter how much I liked the food.
Overall I would definitely come back. And to be clear, I think it's better than In-N-Out and worth the price. They take credit cards and parking at this location is a little tight depending on the mall's overall amount of customers.