Growing national appetite for “better burgers” has business sizzling for Five Guys, others

Appetite for “better burgers” shows no satiety

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — With a drive-through seemingly on every corner, you might think the burger market long ago reached saturation. But the fastest-growing restaurant chain in America last year was Five Guys, which specializes in double-pattied behemoths.

So-called “better burger” joints are one of the fastest-growing parts the industry. Celebrity chef Bobby Flay has gotten into the act with his Bobby’s Burger Palace. Elevation Burger is expanding into Kuwait.

Higher-grade beef, more creative toppings, and better buns are bringing in customers.

The market has room to grow. Such chains represent only about 2 percent of the $65 billion burger market.

Customers are willing to pay more. A Five Guys burger runs from $4 to $6, and some charge more.