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My parents started coming here when they started dating after a long night of bar hopping soon came along me and my sister and we still come Here as adults now introducing to my boyfriend always nostalgic same cook with tatted lips on his neck love this place
First time coming and loved the whole experience and vibe of this clearly classic gem. My mom used to come here when she was at ASU and glad to see the vibes are the same! It's a no frills small joint that's been slinging food here for decades. I got the bacon cheese burger, fries and a coke. Simple, yet all I need with a burger. I loved how they do the bacon here too. It's not strips of bacon but instead a circle of bacon. So good and crispy! The condiments are self serve in this middle area and you shout your order when it's your turn and then wait for your burger to come up then grab a tray, your burger, drink and side. I love a nostalgic place, and this is def that! It was packed when we got there but don't fret. Line moves fast and people eat and then get out knowing it's a place you eat and then move on.
We have been wanting to try this place for a while now. It is in the middle of ASU campus and sometimes we avoid the area because of traffic but today we were in the area and we decided to go! Friday afternoon around 3pm after a baseball game. There are about 5-7 parking spots out front. We were happy to find a spot. It is CASH ONLY. So make sure you bring cash! It is one of the oldest places in the area and we have heard amazing reviews! It has a lot of history and super cool pictures and a great vibe. The people are great. William took really good care of us. We got the bacon cheeseburgers, fries and beer battered mushrooms. FIVE STARS!!! Omg. William was friendly and he made sure our entire order was made to order so our fries and beer battered mushrooms were fresh! They charcoal broil your burgers to order in front of you! Everything was delicious! You can definitely taste the charcoal broiled meat!!! The fries were perfectly salty and crispy! We asked for extra crispy fries. And the beer battered mushrooms were crispy on the outside, salty and juicy on the inside. It is also important to note that they premade bacon pieces in the shape of the burger patty so every bite has bacon! It was spectacular. I love my entire meal!
Finally got to try the famous Chuck Box! And it was so good. They take cash only, and I think cash only places could be either sooo good or meh, and this place is definitely so good. Simple is the best, their burger and food isn't like fancy, yet classic and so good. I personally think it's the hardest to make food good without too much sauce and things, so this place must know what they're doing. Burger was juicy and their zucchini fries!! Definitely going to be one of my go-to burger spot
The smell outside was amazing!! The taste inside...solid and mind blowing! You order, they slap your patty on the charcoal grill and you watch it being cooked. The taste was reminiscent to being at a cookout with that uncle that can cook his tail off! juicy, flavorful, a hole in the wall vibe, and a Tempe staple for many years...for good reason! Five stars all day long!
Place was packed. Guess it was the after lunch crowd. Would hate to see the actual lunch crowd. Got the big juan which is half a pound of glory. Self serve condiment bar. Cash only. Limited seating inside. But plenty of outdoor seating available although it was kinda hot outside. Historic place. Was here as a kid.
This was my second time here while visiting the area. If you are looking for "just" a really good burger, stop in to then Chuck Box. It's a bit Smokey but that's all part of the experience. Buyer beware- it's cash only but they have an ATM. I had the Great Big One, onion rings, and iced tea. The last time I had then Tijuana Torpedo and loved it but wanted to try something else. Service and Ambiance all fit the vibe.
Friends say we're going to Chuck Box. Ok. Get there around 1pm at ASU. The place is busy, small, old and I can't wait! Got to order within 15 minutes of arriving. Not bad! Ordered double cheeseburger onion rings and mixed zucchini and mushrooms. Then take burger to the condiments table. Really nice! Fried food was ok (a little greasy) but the burger was superior. Cooked on charcoal fire grill. Really enjoyed flavor. For a place to be here since 1972! There's a reason, it's good. Worth the trip.
As always this place is the best for char grilled burgers, simple, nothing complex, just food flavors from the from the grill and wood they use to cook with. I had the double great 1 medium rare and they cooked it to perfection , onion rings were good and just the experience of being here in this historical place is good to read up on how they started and all the construction of new buildings. Living spaces and other business, is not pushing The Cuck Box out. This place is a staple in this community and should remain the same. I love coming here every chance I get. Make sure to come and experience the great service and ambiance you won't be disappointed!
We had a nice early dinner at The Chuck Box. I had never been before but my husband remembered it from college days. The place was very old school and once you got out of the car you could smell the delicious burgers cooking. It was so cool to see a toppings bar that included ranch! I got the Little One and it was a great first size for me. But man, next time I'm going for The Big One which has a sesame seed bun and of course, a bigger burger. My husband got the Great Big One and that looked really tasty. We also ordered Chuckbox Potatoes. Basically fries but tasted much fresher and a perfect amount of salt. Don't forget cash only! There is an ATM if you forget. And the seats are like milk boxes and are perfect for a fun ambiance. The staff are great and will help answer your questions as you go through the line before eating. I will be back for a bigger burger and to try their homemade root beer.
Old school and not updated but a great nostalgic, vibe! Basic burger menu and very fresh! Large do it yourself condiments bar in the middle of the restaurant. There is no service, order in line and they cook to order.
I was finally in the area and decided to stop by and finally try these burgers. It was packed to say the least but the line moved pretty good. We ended up having the bacon cheeseburger and the avaocado bacon cheeseburger and they were definitely a good size burger , and since all the toppings are separate you can pile the toppings on which was nice. Everything is cooked to order and cash only , we did also get onion rings and they were really good. I would definitely eat here again if in the area.its more of like a dive bar and old but even with it being packed we had plenty of room. read more
The Chuckbox in Tempe makes great burgers at affordable prices. It's rustic simple and fun. The process: coming and get in the line up. Place your order and the meat patties are grill in front of your over mesquite charcoal. Once done, grab your place and any side and head to the cashier. They only take cash. Customize your burger at a counter with an assortment of vegetables and condiments. Fine a seat inside or outside. We had the Big Little One with sides of onion rings, Chuckbox potatoes, beer battered mushrooms and Old Fashioned Draft Root Beer. We enjoyed it all. Would come back next time when we are in town. read more
Let me just start by welcoming you to the chick box, where every bite is a masterpiece! These burgers are crafted with juicy, top-quality beef, perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, served on fresh, toasted sesame bun with the perfect crunch, cooked right in front of your eyes! Customize your burger with gourmet toppings like smoky bacon, creamy guacamole, and a variety of cheeses. Paired with crispy, golden fries and refreshing drinks, my personal favorite was the Barq's cream soda. Each meal is a flavor-packed experience you won't forget. Whether you're a classic cheeseburger lover or looking to try something new, this is the ultimate destination for burger enthusiasts. The onion rings are crisped to perfection. Very intimate location, but an amazing experience. This is cash only. read more
1 year ago
Was packed at lunch ate in car Great selection Large condiment bar Help service for a newbie College campus dark brown inside and out Yummy great one picture is half left of burger read more
3 months ago
Iconic. ASU across the street. Small parking lot as most diners are walk ins. Amazing burger options and chicken too. CASH ONLY. Tried the torpedo with green chilis .. perfect. Had the onion rings and mushrooms .. the batter was a bit undercooked, but very good overall. Ordering is informal - be prepared to yell out your order while in line. As you head toward the cashier, you have the opportunity to watch your meal being prepared.. at the cashier... CASH only.. read more
This is a Tempe MUST while you are in town. I went this last weekend and it was full of new ASU grads and their families. Great to see all of that Maroon and Gold! The burgers and fries are always made fresh. You can't beat that the smokey and juicy burgers cooked over the charcoal girl. This is a cash only establishment but there is an ATM inside. Go to The Chuck Box next time you are in Tempe and of course Go Devils! read more
My family and I visit the chuck box over Father's Day lunch. It was quite busy, but the kitchen was friendly and relatively quick. It was really neat to see the burgers being cooked in front of you. The burgers were juicy, delicious, and cooked perfectly. I enjoyed my guacamole bacon burger. I appreciated the buffet style option to choose toppings and sauces. We ordered a side of onion rings and fried zucchini. Both were delicious and not overly greasy, especially the zucchini. Portions were geared towards 1-2 people. The inside dining room was small, but not a compliant. It was a nice surprise that the outside seating areas had misters! My overall sentiment is, if you are looking for a good burger this is the spot for you. The food and ambiance is nothing special but they do a good job at what they serve. Just keep your expectations on par. read more
Really cool local spot to get a burger. I love that they grill the burgers in front of you. I opted for a burger with no bun. They are not skimpy on the bacon either! Fast service and I love the condiment bar. They had every condiment you could want. read more
Local chargrilled burgers! Only takes cash and it's usually busy but so worth it. The guys do a great job cooking the burgers and even the hot dog (sliced in half long ways and put on a burger bun). They have a condiment bar to put any toppings you'd like. Restaurant is small with outside seating as well. We love the burgers here some of the best in the valley! read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Okay, here we go.... I am visiting from California and that makes me a bit biased but, I had VERY HIGH HOPES for this establishment and, unfortunately they could not deliver. Yes, it is a REAL char burger which was amazing to see them cook over charcoals right in front of you. The miss was either the grade of meat they use or, the fact that there was ZERO flavor other than the "meat" taste "pause". The jalapeño poppers were also very mid for me as well. I seen them cook the peppers on the grill and I was expecting something extraordinary and yet again they missed then opportunity to deliver. The condiment table is VERY extensive but, if in fact the hamburger was tasty and flavorful that condiment bar would NOT need to be there. read more
I kept getting ads for this on social media and when I was in Tempe, I had to try it. It was absolutely delicious. It really reminded me of a backyard barbecue hamburger. They have a nice bar that you can put all the Fixin's and the staff is just super friendly chatting with you while you wait. I'd advise getting there when they open because the lines can get quite long. read more
1 year ago
Always love coming here. Casual, no frills, cash only. ATM available. Limited parking available. I like being able to sit outside here. The burgers are the best in town, grilled right in front of you, charbroiled. Many topping options to choose from with a toppings bar. Service is efficient and friendly. I will continue to come here over and over. read more
I came across a list of the best burgers in each state. For Arizona, The Chuck Box was listed as the state's best. Before we went to AZ, I asked our son-in-law if he had ever been there. After all, it's been in business for 40 years. Even though he grew up in the area, he had never heard of it. When I mentioned seeing it on the best burger list, he was interested in trying it. First of all, I want to mention that it is cash only. They do have an ATM on site if you need cash. We were all eager to try the burgers. Ordering works this way --- upon entering, you get in a cafeteria-like line. Then you give your order to the person making the food. They cook their burgers on a grill where mesquite is used. Yes, it all smelled good. We all gave our orders. Once you do that, you can't advance in the line until your burger gets handed to you. While we were waiting, a woman who was ahead of us in line with her family, started waxing poetic about the burgers saying they were the best they've ever had. Plus, she talked about how clean they kept the kitchen area (we concurred with that). She also mentioned how nice the staff was and one person had been working there for 40 years (Yes, the staff was nice). Things get somewhat complicated once you get your burger. If you order a side like onion rings or fries, no one tells you to just grab a serving as you move along the line. Thus, my husband didn't grab his onion rings but was charged for them. Drinks are self serve. How were the burgers? Sorry to say but they weren't that good. They are thin and we all commented how they were dried out with little flavor. That said, the onion rings (which I shared with my husband) were actually quite good. The batter clung to then quite well and they were crunchy with good flavor. The dining area is rustic --- wooden tables and (if I recall correctly) stools. We felt a bit cramped. In the end, we spent over $80 to feed 6 of us. Trust me...there are better burgers in AZ. read more
10 months ago
I enjoyed my experience here but the burgers did not match the hype that I've seen for this place. Don't get me wrong the burgers were good but definitely not the amazing burgers I've seen in some other reviews. We also enjoyed the three sides we got: fried mushrooms, fried zucchini and jalapeño poppers. The staff were very nice, so service was good and I actually liked the cafeteria-style experience. The ambiance: I kinda felt like I was eating at summer camp but indoors. I doubt anyone is going to be impressed by the look and feel here. I didn't see anyone bussing tables while I was there and we had to wipe down our own table if we wanted a clean one, but the place didn't actually seem dirty like I've seen in some reviews. We were there late and in the rain so there weren't too many customers and had no trouble finding parking. I wouldn't want to be here during their busy hours though. read more
I had the opportunity to return to campus today and have been wanting to go back to Chuck Box for a long time. I went out of my way to go today since I had a three hour wait in-between appointments and commitments in the area. Time to kill on a great meal. I have not been to this location in about 4 decades. The last time I was at a Chuck Box it was at the Scottsdale location and they closed years ago. So decades later I got to return to one of our old college haunts. Best burger back then and they still got it. So good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yum, Yum, Nom, Nom! The fries I ordered where a pretty large size but to be honest they were not as hot as i like them, but still tasty. My guess is they served them up and put them under the heat lamp too fast for the time it takes to make your burger fresh. Yes, the burgers are cooked to order and the place smells divine. I think I regretted maybe not getting the onion rings. They smelled and look so good too. Not sure if I had ever had them here before. Sadly, I can't remember Next time I will try them instead and let you all know. They looked perfect. They have a small parking lot out front with about four spaces reserved for them. Parking is tricky in that area. I had no problem being it was 4pm on a weekday but it is not good on event days. We used to walk when I was in college. There is a small lot next door but I think it might be reserved for whatever businesses are next door. Always changes at ASU to that area every time I visit. They still have the fixings bar which I always thought was great back then and still do now. You still get to fix your own. Don't laugh, that was not really as common a thing back then then it is nowadays. Plus, we know Covid stopped a lot of salad bar/fixings type of set ups. It was very clean. This establishment is a Cash Only type of place, which is important to be noted and prepared for. I was not since I rarely hold cash. However, with that said, they do have an ATM inside that can give you cash but charges a fee. Bring cash to save the ATM bank fees. The staff members were wonderful. Everyone was beyond friendly and kind/helpful. Bathrooms out on the back patios. Only one toilet per bathroom stall. I call them Onsies. lol The decor is so cute here like an outdated, wild west cabin. They still use the wooden boxes for chairs and the bathrooms look like camping wooden outhouses. No worries though, they are not actual outhouses but fully functional toilets. Yes, they have toilets in each bathroom stall. Hahaha Thanks for the stroll down memory lane and hanging around Chuck Box. I love to see places that are a staple in a community still open years later. Oh yeah, a bit pricier than say other burger places. However, for the quality not that unreasonable since nowadays drive thrus at corp chains are charging up to 13 dollars for a meal deal anyway. I paid a high 15 dollars for a burger, fries, and a large drink. and threw in some change in the tip jar. read more
1 year ago
Out of this world burger joint. It's cash only so be ready. But the food is awesome. Super causal spot. Def worth it read more
2 months ago
2 years ago
Love these delicious burgers! Have tried several times to eat here but there was always a line! Finally got a chance to experience these BIG burgers and surprisingly the line moves fast! Definitely got stuck in the smoke from the grill after I ordered...just do what I did and stand super close to the person in front of you and strike up a conversation! I got the great Big 1/2 pounder with some of the onion rings and I'm not afraid to say it, but I finished every bite! I don't want to leave anything behind! I love being able to put my own toppings on as well! Looking forward to my next visit! read more
2 years ago
If you're a fan of open, flame-grilled burgers, The Chuck Box is a must-visit. This cozy spot may be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to delivering some of the best burgers in town. The moment you walk in, you're greeted by the sizzling sound of burgers cooking fresh off the grill, and the aroma is nothing short of mouth-watering. One of the features at The Chuckbox is their condiment bar. It's a burger lover's dream, allowing you to customize your burger to your exact liking. The onion rings are #fire--double-fried to perfection, resulting in an irresistibly crispy texture that pairs wonderfully with the juicy burgers. The staff here are genuinely friendly and add to the welcoming atmosphere. Despite the small space, they manage to keep things moving smoothly, even during the busy lunch and dinner hours. However, because of the limited seating, be prepared to sit outside if the place gets crowded. For two people, you can expect to spend around $20-$30, which is a great deal considering the quality of the food and the overall experience. PS - place is cash only!! Although, there is an ATM on site if needed. read more
1 year ago
Honestly, I cannot believe it took me 10 years to check The Chuck Box off my AZ food card. I even use to work RIGHT next door, constantly smelling the greasy deliciousness. It seems like a right of passage in Tempe - located right in between Campus and basically DT Tempe this little hole in the wall is a great spot. It's very rustic, wooden shack type vibes. The outdoor patio sports log stumps as seats, not the most comfortable, but fit the bill! The inside had seating and it's counter style, made to order. The menu is straightforward featuring various size of burgers and a few specialty ones, with a large self serve topping area, featuring all the classics. This is no gourmet burger shop, this is picnic, classic, served on paper plates food. They have tasty fries and other fried sides such as jalapeno poppers - DELISH - onion rings and also have chicken tenders for those who are not burger people. They have a couple basic beers, by the bottle and pitcher and all the prices are about as cheap as you could get today! 1/2 Burger is about 8 dollars with small upcharge for cheese. this place is BOPPING, in no way did I ever expect such a crowd. The line was long and the place does get packed, but it moved relatively speedy and you get your burgers before you pay and sit down. The parking lot is also pretty tight and packed, so something to expect. They also have two small restrooms. it's a great spot for a group or quickish bite! read more
2 years ago
Nostalgic, classic, and delicious. Simple charcoal burgers at their best. They also have chicken sandwiches. You have to get their onion rings and zuchinni fries. Build your own burger with all the sauces and sides after you get your food. Cash only! read more
Such a nostalgic Tempe spot! Be prepared with cash as they do not accept cards. I ordered the spicy chicken sandwich and my husband ordered the double big one. I love that you get you watch your food being prepared-- it's like hibachi but burger edition. Flavors were amazing and they have a toppings bar where you can add lettuce, tomato, etc. my only regret is not getting onion rings! read more
6 months ago
2 years ago
Small little spot! Hole in the wall vibes!! Don't look like much from outside, but the food is amazing. Everything we had was delicious. Everything tasted so fresh they make the burgers right in front of you. Not many places do their burgers, charbroiled you can taste the difference!!! One of the best burgers I've ever tasted!! The people here are so friendly and on top of their game since it was our first time they did amazing and helped us with our food.! I highly recommend this spot. I can't wait to go back to Arizona to eat here again. read more
3 years ago
Flew in from Vegas for Innings fest 2024 and had The Chuck Box bookmarked on Yelp as a place to check out. I was staying nearby and my Hotel had a full kitchen and provided breakfast daily, so I almost did not have a reason to go to Chuck Box, other than me being an omnivore, luckily one day before the festival I stopped in to Starbucks for a coffee and as I exited I noticed an older looking wooden house and saw the name Chuck Box on the exterior. Excited, I checked my pockets and had cash on hand, rare occurrence for me these days, so I took that as a sign and went in, as you enter you see a table full of condiments (reminded me of a salad bar) from, mayo, jalapeños, pickles, ketchup, etc, just about anything you can think of adding to a burger. The interior itself is fairly small, maybe 10-12 tables from my quick glance around the restaurant, but there is also seating outside. The line can get quite long but I can see why, the burgers and food are cooked to order over a charcoal flame, the food was on point as well as the price, check it out and bring cash! read more
The Chuck Box 6455 E Southern Ave Mesa, AZ January 05, 2024 Food: 5/5 Service: 5/5 Portion size: 5/5 Visit description: Dine-in order, Came to Chuck Box one of our valley favorites for a great burger. Food: We got 2 little one's and 2 orders of fried zucchini with drinks. Service: Customer service was great especially for how busy it was atleast 15 people in line when we showed up, food was ready in less than 20 minutes and the food quality was top tier, very fresh food along with condiments bar. All the food is prepared to order nothing is ready that's was a plus. read more
2 years ago
Friendly service. Takes your order as he is prepping things. Small well oiled machines a business. Burgers were great (we had 5 different ones) and the sides were da bomb. Crispy deep fried mushrooms, jalapeno poppers, onion rings, and fries...YUM! Topping bar with all the burger fixins plus ranch for the fries. Prices are great too! The location is small and busy, but worth it! read more
1 year ago
Staff were super friendly and my burger was made to order; delicious. I liked that they have red cream soda on tap. The prices on the menu board have not been updated yet but the paper menu I've included is accurate. I appreciate they do their best to keep the line moving along. Facilities were clean which I appreciate. Cash only with an atm inside! The fee is $2 plus whatever your bank charges. Chase bank charged me an additional $3 for using a non-Chase atm. It's all explained at the machine, no surprises. The condiment bar was a nice touch too. I will be back but not out of my way. $15 or so for a burger, fries, and large fountain soda. read more
7 months ago
This is a great burger! Straight forward burger cooked on mesquite with nice char marks (without being burnt). You stand in a line and basically tell your order to the person there, they stick toothpicks in the bun so the guy cooking knows what to make and when you get up to the front of the line you pickup your food. We got two little ones and one big one along with a side of beer battered zucchini. The fun thing about getting a big one is that when you get up to get your food and the person says "you got a big one?" You can confidently say "Yes. Yes I do." There's a condiment bar to add all your toppings. We all thoroughly enjoyed our burgers, they're really a step above anywhere I can think of. The beer battered zucchini was excellent as well. I got a 16 oz beer as well which was good. Overall an amazing burger that somehow doesn't sit heavy in your stomach. read more
Chuck Box. What a spot, bring cash. Prepare to wait for a moment during busy times as everything is cooked right in front of you at the location. Great food and you can put anything you want on your burger once it's served to you. Tons of options for food and drinks. We really enjoyed going here and the burgers are reasonably priced and quality! read more
More info about The Chuck Box
202 E University Dr
Tempe, AZ 85281
Directions
(480) 968-4712
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http://www.thechuckbox.com
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Ask the Community - The Chuck Box
Do they offer take out?
As far as I know no ordering ahead. You can go in and order as it's a cash only business
Does anyone know what oil they use to cook the fries and onion rings in?
Restaurant grade canola vegetable oil.. industry standard
Are dogs allowed on the patio? I know there are a few seats outside. :)
In the 2 decades of my eating there I have seen many many animals on the patio and they have never said anything about it neither the customers nor the restaurant themself not sure what the policy is but it sure seems pretty friendly to me
Do you have gift cards/certificates?
Yes we have gift cards available. They come in $5 increments.
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