Dave & Tony’s is a locally owned restaurant located in the Bellerive Plaza that offers a decent selection of burgers and sides. Situated between Schnucks and a pet shop, this dine-in locale serves great quarter-to-half pound patties at a decent price.

The main feature of the menu is the build-your-own-burger option, a small sheet which allows the customer to assemble their own burger step-by-step. There are multiple options for buns, meat types, toppings, premium toppings, cheese, and sauces that you can check off. The starting price for a burger with no extras is $7.20, and for that price you can get any choice of bun (or lack thereof), any meat besides the extra large patty, one cheese, four toppings, and sauce.

Other menu options include diner-type foods such as hot dogs, chicken tenders, and some soups and salads. The chicken tenders are pretty good, with a high meat to breading ratio. The breading itself is very plain, but they come well cooked and there are various sauce options to spice things up a bit. The hot dogs are kosher style and can be ordered in a variety of ways, including Chicago style.

There are also eight different ala carte sides and four options for side salads, but unfortunately, there are no combos and everything must be paid for on its own including drinks. As for the sides themselves, they have great onion rings and fries. The onion rings have a crunchy, plain breading that stays crispy and the onions are well cooked. The fries are crispy and salty, with a thicker cut. Besides the chili cheese fries, all of the side options stay under $3 and come in pretty large portions. Most sides are also served in paper to go cups that fold neatly to store any leftovers you may have.

The service is incredibly fast. I’ve never waited longer than 5 minutes for a custom ordered and cooked burger and sides. Every staff member I’ve encountered was very friendly, and there was even an occasion where one of the cashiers covered the cost of my meal since the mobile card reader wouldn’t work. They offer a bussing service so there’s no need to clear your table. You just sit, eat, and go.

All in all, though some may raise a brow at the prices, the portions and quality of ingredients and food make it well worth it. It’s always a pleasant, quick dining experience so if you’re willing to pay roughly $9-11 for a full and satisfying meal, I’d highly recommend giving Dave & Tony’s a try.

Rating: 8/10