Burger Factory in South Carolina: What to Expect and Where to Find It
What Burger Factory Offers
Burger Factory is a casual burger restaurant chain with locations across South Carolina, known for made-to-order burgers built around your choices. You pick your protein—beef patty, chicken breast, or plant-based option—then choose toppings, sauces, and sides from a straightforward menu. The kitchen assembles each burger fresh rather than pulling from a heat lamp, which means a short wait but a burger that reflects what you actually ordered.
The restaurant operates as a counter-service spot: you order at the register, find a seat in the dining room or take your food to go, and eat in a casual environment designed for quick meals rather than lingering. Most locations have a handful of tables, some with outdoor seating depending on the building. The price point sits in the middle range for burger restaurants—more than a fast-food chain, less than a sit-down steakhouse.
Key Takeaways
- Burger Factory lets you customize each burger by choosing your protein, toppings, and sauce rather than ordering a preset menu item.
- The restaurant operates as counter-service with a short wait while your burger is made fresh, not pre-assembled.
- Multiple Burger Factory locations exist across South Carolina, so you can find one near your current location by checking their website or calling ahead.
- Sides typically include fries, onion rings, or salads, and most locations offer milkshakes and soft drinks to complete the meal.
Locations Across South Carolina
Burger Factory has expanded to multiple cities throughout South Carolina, with the original location and additional branches in areas including the Midlands, Lowcountry, and Upstate regions. Each location operates independently in some respects, so hours and exact menu offerings can vary slightly between restaurants. Before driving to a specific location, especially if you are traveling more than 15 minutes, call ahead or check their website to confirm they are open and to ask about any specials running that day.
The restaurant does not operate a reservation system—you simply walk in, order, and wait for your number to be called. During lunch hours (roughly 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.) and dinner time (5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.), expect a line and a 10- to 20-minute wait for your food. Off-peak times, particularly mid-afternoon or late evening, move faster.
How to Build Your Burger
The ordering process starts with your protein. Most locations offer a standard beef patty (usually a quarter-pound or half-pound), a grilled chicken breast, and a plant-based patty. Some locations may rotate seasonal proteins or offer specialty options like turkey or bison, so ask what is available that day. You can also order a double patty if you want extra protein.
Next comes toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, jalapeños, mushrooms, bacon, cheese (cheddar, Swiss, American, or pepper jack at most locations), and fried or grilled onions. The menu board lists what is in stock. You then choose a sauce—ketchup, mustard, mayo, ranch, sriracha, or house-made options like a burger sauce or garlic aioli depending on the location. Finally, you select a side: fries, sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a salad. Drinks come separately and typically include soft drinks, iced tea, lemonade, and milkshakes in flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry.
Pricing and What to Budget
A basic burger with one protein, a few toppings, and a standard side typically costs between $10 and $14, depending on the location and whether you choose premium toppings like bacon or specialty cheeses. A double patty burger runs $2 to $4 more. Sides like fries or onion rings add $3 to $5, and drinks range from $2 to $4 for a soft drink or $4 to $6 for a milkshake. A complete meal for one person—burger, side, and drink—usually totals $16 to $24 before tax.
Most Burger Factory locations accept cash and card payments. Some offer online ordering through their website or a third-party app, which can speed up the process if you order ahead and pick up at a designated time. Prices and payment methods can vary by location, so confirm when you call or visit.
Dietary Considerations and Allergies
If you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, Burger Factory offers plant-based patties at most locations, and you can load it with vegetables and dairy-free toppings. However, cross-contamination is possible in a shared kitchen, so if you have a severe allergy, speak directly with the staff about preparation methods. The restaurant does not publish a detailed allergen menu online, so call your local Burger Factory to discuss specific concerns before visiting.
Gluten-free options are limited because the bun contains gluten. Some locations may offer a lettuce wrap or allow you to bring your own bun, but this varies. Ask when you order. The restaurant does not label items as certified gluten-free, so if you have celiac disease, confirm with staff exactly how your food will be prepared.
When to Visit and What to Expect
Burger Factory works best as a lunch or casual dinner destination rather than a special-occasion restaurant. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with a mix of office workers grabbing lunch, families with children, and groups of friends. The noise level is moderate—you can hold a conversation, but it is not quiet. Most locations have a few tables, so seating can fill up during peak hours; if the restaurant is crowded, you may wait for a table after your food is ready.
The restaurant does not take reservations, so if you are planning a group outing, arrive early or during off-peak times to avoid a long wait. Takeout is always an option if dining in is too crowded. The food travels reasonably well in a container, though fries are best eaten fresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order a burger without a bun?
Yes. Most locations will serve your burger on a lettuce wrap, in a bowl, or on a plate if you ask. This works well if you are avoiding bread or want to reduce carbohydrates. Confirm with the staff when you order so they know to prepare it that way.
Do Burger Factory locations offer delivery?
Some locations partner with third-party delivery services like DoorDash or Uber Eats, but not all do. Check the app for your area or call your nearest Burger Factory to see if delivery is available. Delivery adds time and cost compared to picking up in person.
Are there kids' meals or smaller portions?
Most Burger Factory locations offer a smaller burger size suitable for children, often called a "junior" or "kids" burger, at a lower price than the full-size version. Ask at the counter what sizes are available. You can also order a single patty instead of a double to keep portions smaller.
What time does Burger Factory close?
Hours vary by location, but most Burger Factory restaurants close between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. on weekdays and may stay open later on weekends. Call ahead or check the website for your specific location's hours before planning a late dinner.
Can I order online and pick up later?
Many Burger Factory locations offer online ordering through their website or a mobile app, allowing you to place your order and pick it up at a scheduled time. This reduces wait time at the counter. Not all locations have this system, so check with your nearest restaurant to see if it is available.