When asking yourself about something to do near me in Seattle with a group of friends or family, consider
Dick's Drive-In
Why Dick's Drive-In is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dick's Drive-In has been a beloved Seattle fast-food establishment since its founding in 1954, renowned for its simple yet high-quality menu focusing on classic American fare: burgers, hand-cut French fries, and hand-made milkshakes. With nine locations in the greater Seattle area and a tenth opening soon in Everett, Dick's offers a nostalgic, no-frills dining experience that honors its original philosophy of serving fresh, 100% beef burgers and homemade fries. The original Wallingford outlet sparked a steady expansion to neighborhoods including Capitol Hill, Lake City, and Lower Queen Anne—the latter being the only location with indoor seating. Dick's menu has changed little over the decades, emphasizing quality ingredients like locally baked buns, freshly cut potatoes for fries, and fresh, never frozen beef patties. The signature burgers include the original hamburger and cheeseburger, as well as the Dick's Special and Dick's Deluxe, which feature fresh lettuce, mayonnaise, and pickles, with the Deluxe doubling the patties and adding cheese. This enduring simplicity paired with freshly prepared food creates an inviting atmosphere perfect for casual meetups with friends who appreciate timeless comfort food. Dick's commitment to consistency and quality has helped it withstand the test of time, remaining a quintessential spot for a quick, delicious meal in Seattle.
Here's what people think of Dick's Drive-In
As of recent, Dick's Drive-In holds a 4.4-star rating based on 9216 reviews.
Reviews of Dick's Drive-In consistently highlight its longstanding reputation for quality and classic tastes. Many customers praise the fresh, juicy burgers and the distinct taste of hand-cut fries cooked in high oleic sunflower oil. The hand-made milkshakes in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry also receive frequent positive mentions for their authentic, old-fashioned style. Positive reviewers often appreciate the nostalgic feel and straightforward menu that stays true to the original concept without unnecessary additions. They particularly enjoy the Dick's Deluxe burger and the friendly, efficient service, along with the affordable prices that have only modestly increased since the early days. However, some negative reviews cite concerns such as limited indoor seating (only the Lower Queen Anne location offers this), occasional long lines during peak hours, and inconsistent service or wait times depending on the location. A few reviewers mention that the Kent location is not as highly rated as others. Overall, the majority of reviews reflect strong customer loyalty and enjoyment of the classic Seattle burger experience that Dick's Drive-In provides, reinforcing its status as a cherished local staple.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Doug Bush
My friend from Washington took me here and I left very happy. Great burger. I liked the seasoning salt in it. Fun joint. Definitely a place with a fun vibe that you can crash at after an event. We luckily beat the traffic-just as we got sour food a big line formed. They get your food to you lightning fast. It was very impressive. I had the felled burger, fries, and a root beer float. It was all great.
Collin Reid
Lightning fast service and top notch burgers at a reasonable price! Don’t let lines scare you: they move super fast. We went during a pride event and even though there were huge lines, it took us less than 20 minutes and we got our food the second we paid. The got the deluxes and I got a coffee, and the burgers are good at the first bite, but it’s the aftertaste that’s best. Most surprisingly, the par coffee paired so well with the burger that it became exceptional. Highly recommend for a traditional genuine and affordable Seattle experience!
henry l
Dick's Hamburger The prices are pretty good, but you have to pay extra for ketchup, etc., for the fries. Speaking of fries, they're good! Fried with skin and a brownish color—none of those pale, light-colored fries. The hamburger taste fresh but it's very avg. Nothing to write or tell about.
Alan C
What a great dive! This is a walk-up or drive-thru only place! There is a stainless steel standing table for like 8 people if you eat your order there. But don't expect anything else for seating or a table. That said, you can't beat the price and taste! The buns were buttered and toasted to a perfect crispy toasty goodness to compliment the cheap burger it is holding. The fries are Crispy and has the skin on! Which is yummy! The milkshakes are thick and sweet! Definitely will be coming back again and again!
Ge Ge F
Fries were fresh; milkshake was good! The cashier I received wasn’t the best but the overall service of the others were good. Wait time for food was good and quick. Milk shakes took some extra time but was good. I went in the evening so parking was bad; foot traffic is much easier to get in and out
How to reach Dick's Drive-In
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Why Dick's Drive-In may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dick’s Drive-In with your friends?
Gathering your friends at Dick’s Drive-In is more than just going out for a meal; it’s a shared experience steeped in decades of Seattle tradition and simple, satisfying comfort food. Since opening in 1954, Dick’s has been a community favorite, famed for its consistently delicious menu, quick service, and affordable prices. This makes it an ideal spot for a casual outing where everyone can enjoy classic American fast food like burgers, hand-cut fries, and creamy milkshakes without fuss or complication. Its nostalgic vibe—rooted in the enduring charm of a 1950s-style drive-in—is the perfect backdrop for reconnecting with friends or family, creating a relaxed, friendly atmosphere where conversation flows as easily as the soft serve. Dick’s enduring popularity, as reflected in its impressive 4.4 rating from over 9,200 reviews, speaks to its ability to bring people together around a shared love of simple, quality food. Whether you want to catch up after a day out or fuel up before an adventure, Dick’s offers a welcoming, classic spot that’s as much about community as it is about great eats.
What makes Dick’s Drive-In ideal for group meetups?
Dick’s Drive-In caters especially well to groups looking for a straightforward, satisfying meal. With several locations mostly designed for quick service and pickup, it’s easy for groups to order and enjoy their food without feeling rushed or cramped. Unlike traditional sit-down restaurants, most Dick’s locations encourage a lively, casual gathering either in your car or nearby outdoor areas, promoting a laid-back social vibe perfect for groups. The menu’s simplicity—focused on high-quality, freshly prepared favorites—ensures quick turnaround times, so groups won’t have to wait long for their food, keeping energy and mood upbeat. Additionally, the consistent quality across locations means every friend or family member can find tried-and-true favorites, from the iconic Dick’s Deluxe burger to hand-cut fries and shakes, which everyone will appreciate. This combination of speed, quality, and simplicity makes it an excellent, low-stress environment for meetups where food complements friendship rather than complicates it.
What activities can you enjoy at Dick’s Drive-In during a meetup?
While primarily known for food, Dick’s Drive-In offers several engaging elements that enhance any group visit. One major activity is enjoying communal dining in a quirky, nostalgic setting—gathering by cars or picnic tables (at the Queen Anne venue) creates a social ambiance that encourages conversation and laughter. Fans often treat visits like mini-events; sharing menu favorites like the hand-whipped milkshakes or the iconic hand-cut fries invites sharing and tasting among friends, turning a simple meal into a collective experience. The culture of Dick’s also embraces small traditions, such as celebrating special deals or anniversaries, which can add a festive edge to a meetup. Additionally, many groups find fun in exploring the various Dick’s locations around Seattle, almost like a local food crawl, further bonding through shared discovery. The simplicity of the menu means everyone can easily customize group orders without confusion, allowing for a smooth, cooperative dining experience that enhances togetherness.
Why is the food at Dick’s Drive-In a perfect companion for social gatherings?
The food at Dick’s Drive-In is thoughtfully crafted to balance quality, simplicity, and satisfying flavors, making it an excellent choice for groups. Each burger is made with 100% real, fresh, never frozen beef, coupled with locally sourced buns delivered daily, ensuring a fresh, consistent taste. The iconic offerings, like the Dick’s Deluxe—a double-patty burger with melted cheese, lettuce, mayonnaise, and pickle relish—stands out as a crowd-pleaser with its perfect blend of textures and flavors. The hand-cut fries, freshly sliced daily from Pacific Northwest potatoes and fried in high oleic sunflower oil, deliver a golden, crispy experience that pairs excellently with any burger choice. For those with a sweet tooth, the old-fashioned, hand-whipped milkshakes are a delightful way to round out the meal, offering nostalgic comfort reminiscent of classic diners but with modern quality. This focus on straightforward, well-executed classics means the food never overwhelms the socializing but rather enhances it, making every bite a bit more enjoyable in good company.
How does the history and tradition of Dick’s Drive-In enhance group experiences?
Dick’s Drive-In carries over seven decades of Seattle culture, creating a unique ambiance that resonates strongly with locals and visitors alike. Founded in 1954, the legacy of Dick’s as one of Seattle’s oldest and most beloved fast-food restaurants imbues any meetup with a sense of history and place. Hundreds of thousands of patrons have enjoyed its simple menu over the years, and this continuity builds a feeling of belonging and nostalgia—ideal for groups wanting not just food, but a connection to the city and its traditions. The original 1950s signage and architecture evoke a classic drive-in experience that transports groups back in time, enhancing the social atmosphere. This historical context also adds conversation starters for friends and family, enriching the gathering beyond food. The consistency of Dick’s through generations means that reuniting friends or families can share memories of past visits, reinforcing bonds and making new memories at the same beloved spot.
What should groups expect from the service and atmosphere at Dick’s Drive-In?
Dick’s Drive-In prides itself on fast, friendly, and efficient service that perfectly suits the needs of groups seeking a quick and easy meal stop. The streamlined ordering process allows patrons to choose any menu items at any window, speeding up service and minimizing wait times for groups. Staff members are known for their professionalism and cheerfulness, helping ensure that even larger orders are handled smoothly. Though many locations are without indoor seating, this encourages a cheerful outdoor or in-car dining atmosphere perfect for casual socializing. The Queen Anne location is an exception, providing indoor tables that suit groups preferring a traditional sit-down experience. Moreover, the vibrant orange and yellow neon signage and clean, well-maintained spaces add a welcoming touch. Altogether, the service and ambiance keep things light, efficient, and fun—qualities that make Dick’s Drive-In an excellent choice for gatherings of all sizes.
Why is Dick’s Drive-In considered a budget-friendly yet high-quality option for meetups?
One of Dick’s strongest appeals for groups is its ability to deliver quality food at very affordable prices, making it easy for everyone to enjoy without breaking the bank. From the early days, Dick’s kept its pricing reasonable—a legacy still maintained, where basic burgers start around $2.50 to $5.75 for the more hearty Deluxe. This price point allows groups, whether families or friends, to order multiple items, including fries and shakes, without worrying about cost. The focus on high-quality ingredients, such as freshly ground beef and hand-cut fries, means that affordability does not sacrifice taste or satisfaction. Additionally, the no-frills menu and minimal advertising reduce overhead expenses, further allowing Dick’s to prioritize value. For groups looking to enjoy a classic Seattle dining experience without steep bills, Dick’s Drive-In offers a rare combination of historic charm, genuine quality, and financial accessibility.
How does Dick’s menu simplicity enhance group dining experiences?
Dick’s steadfast commitment to a simple, focused menu enhances group dining by reducing confusion and catering to diverse tastes through clarity and quality. The menu features a handful of items: hamburgers, cheeseburgers, the Dick’s Special and Deluxe, fries, and shakes, which means everyone can quickly decide and order without fuss. This simplicity benefits groups by allowing orders to be placed swiftly and efficiently, minimizing wait times and misunderstandings. Moreover, the straightforward menu makes it easy to satisfy different preferences—from those who enjoy plain burgers to those who want the full Deluxe experience. The no-substitution policy simplifies preparation, ensuring the food is always consistent and speeding service. By focusing on mastering a small range of items, Dick’s boosts reliability and quality, so groups can trust they’ll get excellent food every time they visit.
What special events or moments can make a meetup at Dick’s Drive-In memorable?
Dick’s Drive-In has a tradition of commemorating milestones that add a festive spirit to meetups, making visits memorable beyond just the meal itself. Notably, Dick’s celebrates its founding date with special promotions, such as historic pricing on burgers, which creates excitement and draws the community together in a fun, spirited way. Such events provide a unique opportunity for groups to participate in a shared celebration of local history while enjoying their favorite food. Beyond organized events, the simple act of meeting at a place that has served Seattle for seven decades invites reflection and storytelling, which can enrich group interactions. Whether it’s a casual weekday hangout or a special commemorative occasion, Dick’s cultural significance and customer loyalty turn ordinary gatherings into cherished experiences.
How accessible is Dick’s Drive-In for large groups and casual get-togethers?
Dick’s Drive-In’s multiple Seattle-area locations make it accessible for groups spread across the city and suburbs, with nine locations and a tenth opening that expands options. Most of these sites are designed for drive-in or carryout, making them flexible meeting points where groups can either eat outdoors, return to their cars, or gather nearby. The one location with indoor seating in Queen Anne caters to groups preferring a traditional dine-in environment, providing options for those who want warmth and tables. Pricing and parking are generally convenient, with ample space to accommodate group vehicles. This accessibility—both in location and service style—means groups of varying sizes and preferences can find a comfortable way to meet, making Dick’s a versatile venue for anything from casual hangouts to larger social occasions.
This comprehensive overview highlights why Dick’s Drive-In is an outstanding choice for hosting meetups with friends or family — a place where simple, quality food, rich history, fast service, and welcoming ambiance converge to create memorable group experiences.