(johnnyrockets.com) – Downtown (Pacific Place) (There is also one in the University Village)
How I heard of this place: A staple in many urban settings, Johnny Rockets is a place that boasts 1950s decor, served by wait-staff dressed in white, who break out in dance at nearly any excuse.
Type of cuisine: Simple and unpretentious hamburgers, fries, shakes, sandwiches and salads. Very American. Very easy. You know exactly what you’re going to get.
Ambiance: All-American. With tabletop jukeboxes and nostalgic (for those who were around) decor. Booths and bar seating area available. The ones I have been to are bright, red and white and very simple.
What I ordered: Uncertain as to what I had ordered in the past, a visit to Johnny Rockets always results in the indulgence of a burger and fries. On this visit, I ordered the #12 which came with cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, an onion slice, pickle, mayonnaise & tangy “red red sauce.” My dining companion opted for the Rocket Single, which was served with cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, an onion slice and “special sauce”. (She opted out of the “special sauce” and requested extra tomatoes and pickle.) The way she downed it, I’m sure it was suited to taste. I also enjoyed my burger. I wouldn’t say it is the best burger I’ve ever had, but it has a quality of home-made-ness that you can enjoy without spending too much. The burgers came with fries that were perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Like fried mashed potato.
What I loved: I loved that we could pop in after seeing a movie, sit right down and order. The staff were friendly and the food just as to be expected in such a place. The flavors were not unfamiliar nor did they blow us out of the water, but we knew what we wanted, what to expect and we got it.
Why I loved it: It was a simple meal and tasted great after watching a cheesy, predictable movie.
Cost: low to mid-range for a burger meal ($7.50 each)