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 thoughtfully prepared, too, with patties minced together from onions grilled in a merlot reduction and lentils boiled al dente. Most of the ingredients are sourced from farms. They even put a gourmet spin on their toppings; top burgers with fried egg, blue cheese, house made garlic aioli, or BurgerFi sauce, which takes roughly 40 minutes to make. Also, try their house-made custard, which they use for the shakes and sundaes.

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