Seemor
Dick's Drive-InB-Worth Trying
111 NE 45th St, Seattle, WA 98105
· Hamburger restaurant, American restaurant, Fast food restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (9456 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Classic Seattle burger stand delivering ultra-fast, inexpensive burgers, fries, and shakes with nostalgic charm but inconsistent execution; great for a quick fix, not for gourmet cravings.
Why it gets a B- for overall quality
Dick's Drive-In earns its grade as a beloved Seattle classic with exceptional speed and nostalgic charm, but variable fry and burger quality prevents a higher standing. Food quality swings between crisp-and-satisfying to soggy, while curbside-only seating limits comfort. Strong loyalty and iconic status make it worth experiencing, though execution inconsistency keeps it from competing with the area's most reliable dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
This Wallingford institution channels a 1950s walk-up vibe with retro simplicity and lines that move fast. Expect paper bags, curbside snacking, and a steady stream of regulars and visitors. As one diner put it, the crew is quick and efficient and the food lands in minutes, though quality can swing from hot and crisp to a bit soggy. The cooking is straightforward: thin-patty burgers, hand-cut fries, and classic shakes, all about nostalgia over novelty. When the fries are fresh, they hit; when not, they disappoint. Burgers are small but satisfying for those who love simple flavors—many suggest ordering two if you are hungry. Shakes often steal the spotlight for dependable sweetness and old-school texture. Families will find it easy: small burgers, fries, and shakes are kid-friendly staples. There is no formal seating, so plan on the car or curbside, and customization is limited—great for kids who like plain items, less ideal for picky requests. Prices are gentle on the wallet, which makes spontaneous family stops painless.
At a Glance
- Iconic Seattle drive-in with nostalgic charm
- Very fast service and low prices
- Shakes are a consistent crowd-pleaser
- Inconsistent fry and burger execution
- No customization beyond menu builds
What Sets It Apart
- retro_drive_in_heritage
- ultra_fast_turnaround
- budget_pricing
- Seattle_icon_status
What People Love
- Old-school walk-up experience
- Lightning-fast handoff
- Classic shakes with real ice cream
- Simple, satisfying burgers when fresh
Points of Concern
- Fry texture swings from crisp to soggy depending on timing
- Burgers are small; order two for bigger appetites
- Strict no-customization policy can frustrate some diners
- Occasional order accuracy and missing condiments reported
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$10-$14 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair a Deluxe with fries and a shake for a classic experience under $14
- If you dislike relish, choose cheeseburger or plain items instead of requesting changes
Perfect For
- Late-night post-event snack
- Quick budget-friendly lunch
- Nostalgia trip with visiting friends
- Grab-and-go family treat in the car
Location Insights
Area: Lively urban neighborhood near UW and I-5, mixes students, families, and late-night traffic.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; occasional parking and line chaos reported.
Nearby: Near university corridors, small shops, and arterial roads; popular late-night stop.
University DistrictThe University District offers a dynamic dining scene with a mix of casual eateries, international cuisine, and trendy cafes catering largely to students and academics. The atmosphere is lively and informal, with a strong emphasis on affordable and diverse food options, reflecting the multicultural and youthful population.
University Way NE (The Ave)Known locally as 'The Ave,' this stretch is the commercial heart of the University District, featuring a dense concentration of restaurants, bookstores, and nightlife venues. It has a casual, energetic vibe and is a popular gathering spot for the university community.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:30–02:00
Tuesday10:30–02:00
Wednesday10:30–02:00
Thursday10:30–02:00
Friday10:30–02:00
Saturday10:30–02:00
Sunday10:30–02:00
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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