Rooster's Old Forge The fries were absolutely perfect, crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside. The Figgy Burger was likely the best burger I've ever had at a restaurant. The bun alone was outstanding. Excellent fusion of flavors. Everyone else in our group ordered the Classic Burger, and every single person had great things to say about it. If you're in Old Forge or even passing through Utica, Rooster's is absolutely worth the stop. read more

Roosters OF Very good! Buns were soft with a touch of sweetness. The burgers were juicy with the quintessential crisp edges. Rooster sauce certainly ties it all together. The chicken nuggets are frozen, bey they are really tasty! Great staff, very friendly. A welcomed and delicious addition to the OF area. read more

Great food very nice people who work here, the inside is absolutely beautiful as well as the music choices they have here! It's all amazing and I would absolutely come again! read more

Burgers were delicious but where they shine is their homemade chicken nuggets., wow so good and juicy.. fries were tasty also ., the service was fast ., it's a medium sized place so can get a little crowded.. highly recommend.., read more

I have had Rooster's several times now, and consistently they deliver on giving me the best burger in the area. I am very picky with burgers and absolutely love the ones at Rooster's. I especially love the Rooster sauce! I've also tried their chicken nuggets which I also recommend. It's sort of set up like a fast food joint inside, and you typically aren't waiting long for your order. There is seating inside, but also picnic tables outside. Better yet, you can grab some ice cream next door when you're done! I highly recommend Rooster's if you're craving an excellent smash burger! read more

Rooster's - The Rooster - New American Near Me - Utica, New York

The smashburger was great. Especially good for those of us who have partial plates, or few teeth to chew with. The seasoning was blended into the hamburger. The cheese fries were yummy and hot. The food is brought to your table. Nice, pleasant atmosphere. Prices are not expensive. We will go there again. read more

The chicken nuggets brought me in and definitely didn't disappoint. The choice of sauces was nice. The cheeseburger was big and delicious. The crew were all friendly and the service was prompt. read more

Great place... tucked behind the cream store on North Genesee st is well worth the trip ... We were great by, we think, was the owner. Great guy helped us choose and it was perfect... I had a Double Rooster Fries and Pepsi, my two boys decided on singles... with everything on them. Delicious, fast and warm . The fries are seasoned and the burger is smashing... it reminded me of the old school In n Out burgers in Souther Cal. We'll definitely be back Big Daddy Delicious... lol read more

Rooster's - Double Rooster - New American Near Me - Utica, New York

Delicious, quaint (but moving to new location within next few weeks) Staff was super friendly, and food is prepared fresh to order in front of you almost. Delicious. Chopped sandwich reminds me of a 10x better Big Mac. Large portion sizes and prices are super reasonable! read more

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Man, do I love a place that takes pride in their food. We don't spend a lot of time in Utica. Well, we don't spend any time at all in Utica, but it was about halfway between where we were and where we were going, right off the Thruway...and I trust the reviews on this Yelp thing, so we came to give it a shot. It was a fantastic decision. Javon is the owner and the grill man, and he KNOWS HIS FOOD. Not just HIS food, but food in general. He found out we were from Brooklyn and he wanted to talk about pizza, and burgers, and everything in between. And you can tell that he takes an immense amount of pride in serving great food. He's just an awesome guy, and his shop is my favorite kind: they only do a few things, but they do them all very, very well. We shared a Figgy single burger and a Rooster chopped cheese. Our girls had chicken nuggets and fries. Everything was about as good as you can get. Like I told Javon, the only thing I'd change is that I'd get a double burger...but that might've necessitated a nap, and I had a drive ahead of me. If I had to pick just one thing though, go chopped cheese all the way. To be clear, it's a lunch counter. If you're looking for frills, you're in the wrong spot. They've got some stools that my girls loved spinning on, a couple of tables, and not much else besides some walls covered in chalk marker by happy customers. But you're here for the food, not the decor. If you find yourself on the Thruway near Utica and need a meal, do yourself a favor and come see Javon at Rooster's. read more

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Delicious, fresh and fast. Got the figgy smash burger, crisp & hot fries, Rooster sauce and a refreshing pink lemonade. Wasn't thinking, and got a single instead of a traditional double, everyone knows to get a double when ordering any smash burger. The figgy jam is to die for. The service was outstanding, making conversation and asking about my day. The experience was about perfect. Next trip going to try the chopped cheese. read more

One of the best burgers we have ever had. Roosters burgers are smashed burgers. Meaning they are thin and juicy. The have a simple menu with 3 burger options and a few sides. It's a no-frills big flavor type of place. 2 tables and 8-10 bar seats. The staff seem really nice. We ordered one of each burger and loved all of them. Our faves was the Rooster and the Figgy (perfect for people who like sweet and salty!) read more

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If you find yourself in Utica, NY this tiny gem is a great find. I mean tiny, counter seating for maybe 8 or 9 and two tables. That's it! Nothing complicated, but oh so good, Just simple hamburgers and fries. Why complicate things, right? What impressed me was I am wheat & dairy sensitive. I ordered the hamburger, no bun or cheese. They took lettuce, shredded it and made a salad with the hamburger (chopped up) tomato, onion and rooster sauce. Drinks are cans and bottles in the cooler across the counter. The menu is on the wall. I love the simple and small business plan. Genius! read more

What a lucky find! Thruway-friendly fare is not usually such a good experience. The fam was traveling from western NY to a lacrosse tournament in Massachusetts, so at late dinner time we found ourselves approaching Utica. We were trying not to get our hopes up because we rolled into Rooster's at about 10 minutes before closing time. That was not an issue! We each ordered chopped cheese sandwiches because we lost out to a phone order on the last burger buns--all the bread is delivered fresh each day, so when they're out, they're out! The chopped cheeses are smash burgers chopped up and served on lovely toasted, soft, sesame-seeded sub rolls that hold up great, even when filled with flat-top yumminess. We got to watch our food cooked from fresh ground beef right in front of our eyes. The owner was so friendly and kind, and it was fun chatting about his place that's been open since 2021 while he smashed patties and built our sandwiches. We took our food to go because we had many hours left to drive. When I dove into the bag, the owner had labeled our orders, "Mom," "Dad," and "Lax Bro." Personalized service, baby! My chopped cheese was the Classic (minus mustard, plus pickles), while my son and my husband ordered the Rooster, one with bacon, one without. Hubby says he'd skip the bacon next time and add some onion. Son says it was really tasty and devoured it in under 5. The beef had some crispy bits and some softer, which gave a great texture to the whole thing. I was glad to have the fresh lettuce and tomatoes to balance out the saltiness. The fries were perfect--lightly browned, crispy, and correctly seasoned with seasoned salt. Well done, Rooster's. Thanks for a great dinner! read more

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We were on a road trip just passing through but I had identified Rooster's as the place for us to stop for lunch. We were not disappointed. The burgers were the smashed variety and so not so heavily meaty that you would feel you had to take a nap afterwards. The fries were notable for their crispness (turns out there is a secret to getting them so crispy but you'll have to go there and find out for yourself)! read more

Pleasantly surprised. Just stopped in for a quick bite, not looking for anything heavy or fancy. The fries were good, the beverages were good the food was very good, and the staff was was very positive. Will definitely stop by again when I the area. read more

One of the BEST burgers and burger joints I've ever had. Fast friendly and fresh food.

I haven't had the best luck with this place. I know that might seem odd as it gets great reviews. But the first time I went I sat and watched my burger sitting on the counter for about 15 minutes while my friends burned and the employees argued, and the still served me the burnt fries. But usually the just put cheese on my burger after I ask for none. Today I tried to give them another chance at the new location. I never even finished giving my order before the woman at the register made it clear that she didn't approve of my order. 2 rooster burgers no cheese or sauce. She made a very ugly face as she repeated it back to me. Im not paying a premium for lunch just to be made to feel like I don't belong. I will NEVER go back again. read more

5 stars! 10/10 Rating Unequivocally my favorite smash burgers!! Rooster's makes the best smash burger I've ever tasted anywhere in the world and its name is The Figgy. My go-to is a Double Figgy burger (which I now add jalapeños to for a little heat). It could very well win an award for Best Smash Burger on Earth! I also must mention that the fries are exceptional and served pretty darn close to perfection. I've had the pleasure of meeting the owner while inside of Rooster's. It's noticeable that he genuinely cares about his customers and employees. Time and time again, I have witnessed him treat everyone in his establishment with the same amount of respect. It's remarkable. He makes you feel like family that he cares about and never fails to expresses his appreciation for you. I wish the owner and his staff all the best! read more

Best burger in Utica hands down ,was a little skeptical about the sweet jam on a burger but man does it work absolutely great food and the cashier was very nice asked me how my day was going and if I had any plans was attentive to every customer that came up to order read more

Docked a star because it was wicked hot inside. Otherwise it was a fantastic smash burger for a great price! read more

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Delicious smash burger! They've got the classics, but I got The Figgy with fig jam and bacon. Perfectly charred, on a great brioche bun. Fries were nice and crispy with a great homemade Rooster Sauce. The owner, Javon, greeted everyone that walked in with a smile, seemed like he knew everyone or was going to get to know them. Cool place. Destined for great things! Think about that Buffalo branch, brother!! read more

I love it here. The food tastes amazing!! I love the smash burger. They are very good!! The service is amazing and they're always walking to your table to deliver your food. I would definitely stop by if you're in the area. read more

Stopped while traveling through Utica for lunch. A must try if you like smash burgers. My husband got the fig and bacon single, I opted for the rooster chopped. Both options were absolutely delicious. Also ordered chicken nuggets and cheese fries which if I had to be picky were slightly over fried but still good. Just docking one star because we got there at 1:00, sat at the counter and ordered, and it ended up taking about 30 minutes to get our food. They were somewhat busy, but not packed. Not a huge sense of urgency with the speed of cooking but the food was worth it in the end. read more

I'm a big fan of any place that stakes it's claim on very few offerings done very well. That's tough to find in CNY for many reasons so I was excited try Rooster's for lunch. I got The Figgy - a single patty with bacon, cheddar, caramelized onions, and fig jam - and french fries. I was prepared for the roll to be firm and bready from the looks of them, but what a surprise. Soft, pillowy, and perfect. The scent and feel gave me a brief 'glazed donut' vision as I bit in and it was almost immediately enhanced by the patty and bacon. The fig jam gave a lot more nuance than just 'sweet.' You could taste the fruit through it all and it was well balanced by the onions. The fries were golden, crispy, and soft inside. Seasoned with more than just salt. The extra efforts on all fronts paid off. Nicely done! read more

Rooster's - The Figgy (single - but can be ordered as a double, as a chopped cheese, or prepared over fries) - New American Near Me - Utica, New York

One thing I've always heard about NY is when you go in the city you have to get a chop cheese from one of the local bodegas. Unfortunately, I don't live in the city and I gave up on the possibility of getting one. That was until I was introduced to Roosters. Now I understand most of the food I've tried in Upstate is OK. The presentation was great, the cuts, freshness, the ingredients all great...but most of the time is was bland when it came to flavor. The only exception is the food that's considered "ethnic" or Soul food. So with that being said, I had it in my head that this food experience would be bland too. My partner brought me "The classic" and they had The Figgy. My partner and the owner talked about how he had a spot in the city but moved to Upstate. The main point they hit upon was how the food in the area is soo UNSEASONED and that that wasn't a thing at Roosters. Now, I get my sandwich, I make a small prayer to the ancestors and the gods of seasoning asking that my tongue not be offended by the lack of spices, I take one bite and PRAISE BE TO THE HEAVENS!! Ahhh, it was soo good!!! The bread was fresh and nicely toasted, it wasn't too greasy, the lettuce was crisp, the toppings were ample and most of all THE MEAT WAS SEASONED! They I tried the Figgy and ughhhhhh, it was equally as good and the fires were fried to perfection too. If you're in the Utica area and want a good NYC sandwich come here. You won't be disappointed at all! read more

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We were in town for a show at the Stanley, but couldn't get a table at the restaurants in the attached building, so I looked for another quick place to grab a bite. At less than a quarter mile walk from the theater, Rooster's is a hidden gem. I saw it already had good reviews, so I thought it would be worth trying. We walked into the small restaurant with only a couple tables and counter seating but were pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of the two gentlemen working. The menu is simple with a few burger options, chicken nuggets, fries, and soda. This unassuming little joint provided us with juicy burgers and tasty cheese fries at a great price. I won't hesitate to stop back in as a first option to eat in Utica. If you haven't been, you must visit. read more

Rooster's - Rooster Burger and Cheese Fries - New American Near Me - Utica, New York

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Stopped at Rooster's with a hungry family of 5 on our way back to Buffalo from a week of tent camping in the Adirondacks. It was a great stop for getting everyone fed, watered and to the bathroom. The kids loved the chicken nuggets and fries, very crisp and tasty. I had the figgy burger, which was a great sweet/savory combo. Juicy and delicious. My wife had the classic, which was just as good. Service was quick and the staff were friendly. There are outdoor seating options if you have a rambunctious bunch. Great place. read more

Back behind the ice cream shop is a hidden treasure. I had a "Figgy " and my wife a "Rooster " the onion jam with bacon was a fantastic sandwich on the figgy. The rooster was very good too ( we share ) . read more

If you love smash burgers, you have to try this place. One of the better smash burgers I've had, fries were crispy and rooster sauce was great. Can't wait to go back and try the chopped cheese! read more

Smash burger is seasoned to perfection and the flavor is amazing. Definitely a place to get your burger craving fix. The fries? Geesh perfectly cooked and seasoned and their nuggets are a McDonald knock off but better. Their honey mustard sucks get the bbq. Love this place. Excellent customer service too. read more

I had an experience tonight with my roosters single classic smash burger. It was everything I needed and more. I've had the chopped cheese here in the past which is good, but this burger had me closing my eyes and chewing slowly to savor it. It was the proportions and quality ingredients for me. Next, let's talk about the chicken nuggets...they weren't what I expected but was pleasantly surprised. Think, gourmet McDonald's chicken nuggets without the guilt somehow and absolutely delicious. Lastly, the fries which includes the attention to detail with the packaging...I enjoy take out and loathe soggy fries especially when it's avoidable! Excellent work here. Delicious and consistent crispy fries. I should also mention the service is excellent - friendly and welcoming. Thanks! read more

Rooster's - Classic single smashed burger, fries and a nugget. - New American Near Me - Utica, New York

Pretty standard neighborhood diner here. I stopped here for dinner on the way to the casino in Verona. I was the only one they are on a Tuesday evening around 5:30 p.m. The inside is pretty nice and bright but nothing that stands out in terms of the decor. It was a traditional diner with more color! They offered three burgers on the chalkboard menu and I think there was more available if you asked. They also had fries and other items on the side, and a cooler for beverages such as Pepsi. The burger itself was great. The cook was also a nice guy who made for a good conversation. The owner was headed out but made me feel welcomed as well. If you are in Utica and you're looking for a quick but quality bite, I recommend Roosters. read more

Rooster's - a menu on a blackboard - New American Near Me - Utica, New York

Food is freshly made right in front of you and everything is delicious, especially my the Figgy Burger! Yum!!! I'll be back!

It's not a wonder that they won best burger in the Mohawk valley. Their Rooster Sauce puts Rick's to shame. I should know ;)

Great staff and excellent burgers. Always fresh. Definitely recommended, just give them a try.

First time here. Food and service were great. I ordered "The Figgy". Will definitely come back.

Great place to get a burger n fries. I personally enjoy the rooster double But any of the chopped burgers are very good and consistent! read more

This place was just hands down awesome. We're on a first ever family trip with a 12, 11 and 7 year old and this is the first thing we've been to where they haven't complained the entire time. Great food, chill music, the staff was very kind and personable. The food was perfect. Menu is simple, I had the rooster (I think) and my wife had the figgy. Both were great. Boy's had nuggies and fry's and my daughter was adventurous and tried a plain burger with a little lettuce. All were happy. Will definitely come back. read more

Superior service, delicious food, and very clean. Highly recommend. Roosters is a hidden gem for burger lovers! From the moment you walk in, the inviting atmosphere sets the stage for a fantastic dining experience. The menu is great, featuring a range of creative burger options, each made with high-quality ingredients. read more