When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Hires Big H
Why Hires Big H is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Hires Big H is a classic drive-in restaurant chain based in Sandy, Utah, renowned for preserving the rich tradition of 1950s drive-in dining. Founded in 1959 by Don Hale and his wife Shirley Hickman, it offers a nostalgic atmosphere coupled with a menu that pays homage to timeless American favorites. The flagship location, along with others in Midvale and West Valley City, serves up delicious, freshly made burgers, crispy fries, homemade onion rings, and the area’s beloved fry sauce, a regional specialty. Patrons can also enjoy frosty mugs of root beer, harkening back to the original root beer stands that the chain is known for. The welcoming and friendly service, combined with the retro décor that reflects the golden age of drive-ins, makes Hires Big H a perfect place for friends and families to gather and enjoy a comfortable, casual meal. Its long-standing presence and dedication to quality have earned it national recognition and a loyal customer base. Whether you’re craving a classic Big H burger or the signature fry sauce, Hires Big H presents a unique blend of tradition, taste, and community spirit that brings people together.
Here's what people think of Hires Big H
As of recent, Hires Big H holds a 4.2-star rating based on 2602 reviews.
Customer reviews consistently emphasize the quality, hospitality, and nostalgic feel of Hires Big H. Many patrons admire the freshness of the burgers and buns, highlighting the Big H combo as a standout favorite. The freshly cut fries and homemade onion rings receive high praise for their flavor and crispy texture. Positive reviews often mention the exceptional friendliness and professionalism of the staff, with some customers noting specific employees who enhance their dining experience. Additionally, the iconic root beer floats and the overall value offered by the menu are commonly celebrated. On the other hand, some negative reviews focus on pricing concerns, with a few customers considering the cost slightly high compared to other fast-food options. A smaller minority express dissatisfaction with occasional slow service or inconsistency. Despite these critiques, the prevailing consensus remains very favorable, with most patrons returning for the consistent quality, warm atmosphere, and classic American drive-in experience. Overall, the reviews paint Hires Big H as a cherished local institution that balances great food, historic ambiance, and attentive service effectively.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Zakk High
I came to Hires Big H hungry and left... still hungry and $18 poorer. For that price, I thought I was ordering a deluxe burger combo with a side of stock options. Instead, I got a burger that looked like it was made for a toddler on a diet. I’ve seen sliders with more confidence. As for the ketchup situation, WOW. I asked for extra and you’d think I requested access to a bank safe. The waitress handed me a single, world's smallest sample like it was part of her personal rations during the apocalypse. I’ve seen people be more generous with their Netflix passwords. I ended up rationing it across my fries like I was playing some sad condiment version of “Survivor.”
Noah Sutliff
Extremely poor experience on all sides of the house. Food itself is nothing to write home about. Cheeseburger looks as though it was slapped together, had little to no flavor, and was drowned in ketchup. The root beer, which seems to be this locations’s claim to fame, was extremely weak. It’s more akin to soda water with a couple drops of syrup. Came with a few of the mates and the waitress repeatedly got our orders wrong. Never got the waters we asked for, couple of meals were missing fries, some got onion rings instead of fries, and my burger didn’t come with mustard like the menu advertised. The prices are outrageous for the quality of the food and service our group received. Charging $8 for my sad cheeseburger ought to be a crime, as it’s nothing short of highway robbery. If you’re in the mood for a burger and fries, you’re better off going to another place that’s half the price but twice the food and twice the flavor.
L P
😒 They Put the Grr in Burger We visited Hires Big H today (400 S 700 E) hoping to share a nice meal. Unfortunately, our experience was anything but. We started by ordering a Golden Veggie H burger, which includes a small order of onion rings (as shown on the menu). The carhop informed us they only offered one size of onion rings, so we said ok. We then asked for the burger to be cut in half since we were sharing. The carhop read the order back correctly, and we thought all was clear. However, what we received was a sad little sandwich of only cheese, lettuce, and tomato on a bun, though it was cut in half as requested. My husband went to the carhop entrance to tell the kitchen. After a significant wait, a woman who appeared to be a manager came to our car. We explained the issue, and after another considerable wait, she returned with what seemed to be our correct burger. When my husband reminded her we'd asked for it to be cut in half—I saw her SNATCH the burger from his hand— and storm off without a word. She eventually returned with the halved burger, but at that point, we'd lost our appetite due to her incredibly rude attitude. My husband told her we no longer wanted the meal, explaining it was "because of your attitude." The manager then said “It’s not you”, so while we were disappointed and shocked by the manager's behavior, I suddenly felt badly for her—the carhop didn’t seem to know the menu and the kitchen who let the order be delivered without the main ingredient— I realize everyone has difficult days, and ours and theirs converged today. We’ve been going there for years; I’m probably more willing than my husband to go again, but not any time soon.
Rachel Q
Great classic burger and fries! I can’t believe this place is still around. My husband grew up eating here when he was just a little kid. He says the quality hasn’t changed much either, and the food is still delicious.
Angie Coleman
Fantastic burger joint! Their Big H Country and pastrami burgers were delicious and very flavorful, although the bun was a little dry. Their cheese fries are definitely the way to go, but regular fries are also delicious. They’re cut fresh in the morning and the cheese fries are real shredded cheese, baked in an oven. None of that fake cheese shoved in a microwave crap. Our server was great- attentive but not annoying and she was proactive with refills of the incredible frosted root beer drinks. You can taste the flavor and individual spices in the home brewed root beer. Delicious!! Cherry lime aid was way too sweet.
How to reach Hires Big H
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Why Hires Big H may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Hires Big H with your friends? Because it offers an ideal blend of nostalgic, casual dining and unique, satisfying flavors that bring people together in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Whether you're looking to catch up over a hearty meal or celebrate a special occasion, Hires Big H provides both comfort and classic American taste that appeal to all ages. The charm of this local favorite lies not just in its great food but also in the upbeat service and welcoming environment where every visit feels like a mini reunion. It’s the kind of place that sparks conversations and laughter over signature burgers, crispy fries, and their famed root beer floats. With a rating of 4.2 from more than 2,600 reviews, it's clear many have found a reason to return and bond here repeatedly. If you want a no-fuss meetup spot that feels like home and delivers consistently delicious meals with generous portions, Hires Big H is a proven winner for your next gathering with friends or family.
What makes Hires Big H perfect for group meetups? The friendly and upbeat atmosphere is a key draw. The staff are known for their attentive, happy service which instantly sets a positive tone for any gathering. Unlike typical fast-food joints, the restaurant flaunts a cozy vibe with booths and seating arrangements conducive to both casual chats and larger group conversations. This encouraging environment helps people relax and truly enjoy each other's company without feeling rushed. Many visitors commend the personalized, professional service that makes each group member feel valued. Plus, with multiple locations, it’s easy to find a convenient spot near you. This flexibility also means groups can pick a location with the ambiance they prefer, whether it’s a bustling downtown hub or a quieter neighborhood joint.
What activities can you enjoy at Hires Big H? While it may primarily be a dining spot, the experience feels like more than just a meal. First, the menu invites you to explore classic American eats—from their famous Big H combo burgers to crisp, golden fries—which naturally draws groups eager to share and sample. The restaurant’s celebrated root beer and shakes create a fun, interactive twist perfect for sharing or indulging individually. You can enjoy friendly conversations over split shakes or compare who loves the root beer float the most. For families, especially, the nostalgic decor and comforting food evoke memories worth talking about, spurring storytelling and laughter. Some locations even have shared spaces where groups can linger longer, extending beyond eating into relaxed socializing.
Why is the food at Hires Big H a highlight for group gatherings? Their burgers stand out with moist, tender patties and uniquely fresh buns baked especially for them, making every bite a satisfying event. Fries and onion rings—often praised as some of the best around—are fried to perfection and generously portioned, perfect for passing around the table. The menu’s variety further accommodates different tastes, from pizza options at certain locations to milkshakes that complete the meal on a sweet note. The fresh, never frozen ingredients ensure quality that groups quickly notice and appreciate, showing that care goes into every dish. Despite its reputation as a casual eatery, Hires Big H’s price reflects quality, making it a reliable choice for enjoyable group dining without breaking the bank.
What about convenience and accessibility for hosting a meetup at Hires Big H? The restaurant’s multiple locations within Utah, especially in Salt Lake City and surrounding areas, provide easy access for locals and visitors alike. Hours stretching late into the night mean groups can plan meetups after work or even as late dinners. Large groups can find comfortable seating without feeling cramped, and the staff’s efficient service ensures orders arrive promptly, keeping the momentum of conversations alive. Parking and proximity to other local attractions add another layer of convenience for groups combining dining with additional activities. The all-American menu also suits a wide range of dietary preferences, making it simple to please diverse groups without hassle.
How does the overall experience at Hires Big H foster memorable meetups? Beyond just food, the glowing reviews highlight a consistent tone of friendliness, great flavors, and a sense of community. Groups tend to leave feeling satisfied not only by the meal but also by the time spent together in a place that feels familiar yet special. The mix of vintage charm and quality ingredients feeds more than hunger—it feeds connection. Whether you’re cheering over burgers, reminiscing with root beer floats, or enjoying the lively buzz of other diners, Hires Big H crafts a shared experience that turns casual outings into cherished traditions. For anyone seeking a place to bring friends or family, this restaurant offers a dependable, uplifting backdrop for creating lasting moments and hearty memories.