BurgerFi, Latham

Location by location, BurgerFi is challenging the common misconception that chain restaurants can't be gourmet restaurants. Gourmet chefs started the chain, and since they had no background in fast food, they didn't really see the point of microwaves, freezers, or heat lamps. That's because the brand aims to be "less burger joint, more five-star restaurant," using grass-fed Angus beef that's free of hormones and antibiotics. The veggie burgers are made from scratch with high protein grains like Quinoa and Lentils, cheeses and other fresh vegetables. Most of the ingredients are sourced from farms. They even put a gourmet spin on their toppings; top burgers with fried egg, grilled mushrooms, house made garlic aioli, hickory bacon or BurgerFi sauce. A meal would not be complete without an order of crispy crunchy fries or double battered jumbo onion ring. Also, try their thick creamy custard, which they use for the hand-spun shakes and sundaes.

This conscientiousness extends from the menu to the restaurants themselves. Each location supports local charities, Dine and Donate nights, and keeps its ecological footprint small by using upcycled tables and chairs.