FIVE Guys has introduced a new menu item in the UK, its first addition since launching here 12 years ago.
For nearly forty years, the cult burger chain has famously stuck to a strict, simplified formula, refusing to chase trends or alter its core food offering.
But that changes today.
In a move described as a “historic moment” for the US giant, Five Guys has officially unveiled a “game-changing” upgrade that experts say will transform the way customers order forever.
After years of speculation and demand from fans, the chain has finally confirmed the arrival of the one side dish that rivals have offered for years, but never with this level of customisation.
From today (December 9) customers can upgrade the chain’s legendary hand-cut potatoes into fully customisable loaded fries.
The new offering allows diners to take their standard order of fries – whether Salted or Cajun – and elevate them with a generous pouring of hot cheese sauce and a unique “secret” fry sauce.
However, the true appeal lies in the toppings.
Staying true to the brand’s reputation for choice, customers can pile on up to 14 different ingredients.
This includes fan favourites such as crispy smoked bacon, grilled onions, jalapeños, pickles, and tomatoes.
The launch also sees the debut of an entirely new ingredient – crispy onions.
According to the company, the sheer number of variables means there are now a staggering 131,000 possible flavour combinations for this dish alone.
John Eckbert, chief executive of Five Guys UK, admitted that changing the menu was a significant step for a brand that prides itself on consistency.
“Loaded fries mark a historic moment for Five Guys as our first-ever food menu addition,” Mr Eckbert said.
“We believe they’ll be an instant hit and a go-to choice for fans across the UK.”
Five Guys was established in 1986 by the Murrell family in Virginia and launched in the UK in 2013, opening in Covent Garden on July 4.
The chain, which now boasts 179 UK sites, has long built its reputation on freshness.
It notably refuses to use freezers, meaning the potatoes used for the new dish are hand-cut fresh in-store every morning.
Loaded fries are now available immediately for both dine-in and takeaway at Five Guys restaurants across England, Scotland, and Wales.
However, the new dish will not be available at the Heathrow Terminal 5 location.
But that isn’t the only shake-up to the menu.
The launch comes just days after Jeremy Clarkson revealed his Hawkstone beer brand has joined forces with the burger giant to stock its lager and IPA bottles at all UK sites.
The partnership focuses on quality ingredients, with Hawkstone’s beers and ciders brewed using 100 per cent British barley or apples and absolutely no concentrates.
Mr Eckbert said: “It’s the perfect fit for us – communicating our shared commitments to the highest quality ingredients and supporting local British producers.
“We know our customers will love pairing their favourite burgers with these fantastic British-made beverages.”
