Shake Shack

Shake Shack is a restaurant chain that started in Manhattan, from the famous restauranteur Danny Meyer. It has sprouted several branches in New York other parts of the USA and now there are even a couple outlets in the Middle East. Delivering a concept of what appears to be ‘proper’ or ‘posh’ fast food, its popularity is substantial and critics seemingly agree, even winning the ‘Best Burger’ award from New York Magazine in 2005.

Shake Shack

There was one located near me in midtown so I popped in for a quick pre-lunch snack. Inside is full of sleek lines and spotlights, lending itself to pseudo-glamorous Hollywood feel. You queue up to place your order at the till (and yes, even 15 minutes after opening time the queue was substantial) and receive one of those vibrating, flashing buzzers to inform you that your food is ready to collect.

Counter

Inside

Menu

I liked the curt nature of the menu, with 5 burgers and 4 hot dogs to choose from. However these were mostly beef (as is often the case with hotdogs and burgers in the USA) so my options were a bit limited. Their milkshake and drinks menu was rather extensive (as the name would suggest), particularly their ‘concrete’ concoctions. These are frozen custards with various additions such as marshmallows or pretzels. I went for the Second City Bird Dog; a smoked chicken hotdog with relish, onions, pickles, mustard, cucumber, tomato, pepper and celery salt. It was a good hotdog in a soft doughy bun. However it was often lost amongst the mountain of (tasty) condiment and disappointingly on the small side (considering my expectations for American portions plus the $5.40 price tag). Regrettably I didn’t try any of the shakes or concretes but they looked pretty tasty, with daily specials such as basil or caramelised peach.

Second city bird dog

I was unable to try much here, but judging by the popularity and atmosphere of the place and given the not-so-unreasonable prices, I’d say that Shake Shack is worthy of a quick visit to refuel the tank whilst sightseeing.

Price: $3.50 - 8.50 per hotdog/burger

Where to go before/next: Times Square & the theatre district are within walking distance, as is Madame Tussauds (on 42nd street & 7th avenue).

Website: Click here

Location: 691 8th avenue (between 43rd & 44th streets). There are several locations throughout NYC

Nearest Subway:  42 St


Opening Times: 11.00 - 00.00