Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard, a Colorado-based fast-food chain, has been serving customers since 1987. Known for its premium burgers and frozen custard, the restaurant has gained popularity in certain regions.

A typical Good Times burger and custard combo can contain over 1,000 calories, with high levels of saturated fat and sodium. The vanilla frozen custard alone contains 360 calories and 18 grams of fat per serving. While these offerings may be tasty, they are not considered healthy options for regular consumption.

The chain has made efforts to include some healthier menu items, but the core products remain calorie-dense and high in fat. As with most fast-food restaurants, moderation is key when enjoying Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard.

Brand Overview

Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard is a regional fast-food chain known for its burgers, frozen custard, and specialty menu items. The company has carved out a niche in the competitive fast-food landscape with its focus on quality ingredients and regional appeal.

History of Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard

Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard was founded in Boulder, Colorado in 1987. The chain initially focused on serving high-quality hamburgers made with all-natural beef. Over the years, it expanded its menu to include frozen custard, a signature item that helped differentiate the brand.

Good Times grew steadily in Colorado and neighboring states. The company went public in the 1990s, trading on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol GTIM. This move provided capital for further expansion and menu development.

Good Times Today

As of 2024, Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard operates primarily in Colorado, with some locations in surrounding states. The chain has approximately 40 restaurants, a mix of company-owned and franchised locations.

Good Times’ menu features all-natural burgers, hand-breaded chicken tenders, and wild fries. Its frozen custard remains a key attraction, offered in various flavors and as part of signature desserts.

The company has adapted to changing consumer preferences by introducing healthier options and emphasizing the quality of its ingredients. Good Times also operates Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar, a full-service casual dining concept.

The Fast Food Industry Context

Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard operates in the highly competitive fast-food industry. Unlike national giants, Good Times positions itself as a regional player with a focus on quality and local appeal.

The chain faces challenges common to the industry, including rising food costs and labor pressures. However, its smaller size allows for greater flexibility in menu innovation and regional customization.

Good Times’ emphasis on all-natural ingredients aligns with growing consumer demand for healthier fast-food options. This positioning helps differentiate the brand from larger competitors and appeals to health-conscious consumers.

Nutritional Information

Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard offers a range of menu items with varying nutritional profiles. The calorie and nutrient content differs significantly across burgers, frozen custards, and sides.

Analyzing Good Times Burgers

Good Times Burgers pack a substantial caloric punch. The Good Time Deluxe Cheeseburger contains 560 calories, with 240 calories from fat. It has 27g of total fat, including 10g of saturated fat.

This burger also contains 90mg of cholesterol and 1420mg of sodium. The high sodium content may be a concern for those watching their salt intake.

The protein content is relatively high at 29g, while carbohydrates account for 46g. The burger provides less than 1g of fiber and 9g of sugar.

Frozen Custard Nutritional Profile

Frozen custard at Good Times is a calorie-dense treat. A single waffle cone of vanilla frozen custard contains 450 calories.

The custard’s high fat content contributes significantly to its calorie count. It typically contains milk, cream, and eggs, resulting in a rich, creamy texture.

A chocolate chocolate chip frozen custard in a single waffle cone reaches 720 calories. This dessert option is particularly indulgent and may contribute a large portion of daily calorie intake for many individuals.

Sides and Add-ons

Side dishes at Good Times can add considerable calories to meals. A small order of Natural Cut Fries has its own nutritional impact.

The restaurant also offers onion rings as a side option. These fried items typically contain more fat and calories than unprocessed vegetable sides.

Wild Fries, a specialty item, likely have a higher calorie content due to added toppings or seasoning. Customers should consider portion sizes when selecting sides to manage overall calorie intake.

Ingredients Transparency

Good Times emphasizes the use of all-natural ingredients in their burgers. This focus on ingredient quality is a positive aspect of their menu offerings.

The company provides nutritional information for many menu items, allowing customers to make informed choices. This transparency is helpful for those tracking their dietary intake.

However, detailed ingredient lists are not readily available for all products. More comprehensive information about additives, preservatives, and potential allergens would benefit consumers with specific dietary needs or restrictions.

Menu Offerings and Alternatives

Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard offers a range of classic fast food items alongside some healthier alternatives. The menu features signature burgers and frozen custard treats, as well as options for customization.

Good Times Signature Items

The chain’s menu revolves around its namesake offerings – burgers and frozen custard. Their steakburgers are made with all-natural beef, cooked to order. The frozen custard is churned fresh daily and available in various flavors and formats.

Good Times is also known for its Wild Fries, a popular side dish. Chicken tenders and onion rings round out the classic fast food options. For dessert, customers can indulge in cookies or frozen custard-based treats like shakes and sundaes.

Healthier Menu Options

While many items are indulgent, Good Times does provide some lighter choices. Grilled chicken sandwiches offer a leaner protein option compared to burgers. Side salads are available as an alternative to fries.

The kids’ menu includes smaller portions, which can be a good choice for adults looking to reduce calorie intake. Some locations may offer lettuce-wrapped burgers for a low-carb option, though availability can vary.

Customization Options

Good Times allows customers to customize their orders to some extent. Burgers can be ordered without buns or with extra toppings. Frozen custard can be mixed with various toppings for personalized creations.

For those with dietary restrictions, it’s possible to request modifications like no cheese or sauce. However, as with many fast food chains, cross-contamination may be a concern for those with severe allergies.

Customer Experience

Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard receives mixed feedback from customers. While some praise certain menu items, others express dissatisfaction with service and food quality.

Order Experience

Customers report inconsistent experiences when ordering at Good Times locations. Some find the service friendly and efficient, while others encounter long wait times and errors. The drive-thru tends to be popular, but can get congested during peak hours.

Menu boards are generally clear, though some customers note confusion with seasonal specials or promotional items. Cashiers typically handle orders promptly, but accuracy issues occasionally arise.

Payment options include cash and major credit cards. Some locations offer mobile payment methods, enhancing convenience for tech-savvy customers.

Site Interactions and Digital Presence

Good Times maintains a basic website with location information, menu details, and nutritional facts. The site is functional but lacks advanced features like online ordering or a loyalty program portal.

Their social media presence is moderate, with occasional posts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Customer engagement through these channels appears limited.

Third-party delivery services like Grubhub partner with Good Times, expanding their reach. However, some customers report dissatisfaction with these services, citing issues with order accuracy and delivery times.

Consumer Reviews and Feedback

Online reviews for Good Times are mixed. Many customers praise specific menu items:

• Wild Fries: Often described as “amazing”
• Burgers: Generally rated as “decent” to “good”
• Frozen Custard: Receives positive mentions

Criticisms frequently focus on:

• Inconsistent food quality
• Subpar customer service at some locations
• Value for money concerns

Some reviewers express loyalty to the Colorado-based chain, while others suggest that competing brands offer better experiences. Management responses to negative feedback appear infrequent, potentially impacting customer perception of the brand’s commitment to service improvement.

Business Model and Practices

Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard operates as a quick-service restaurant chain focused on burgers, fries, and frozen custard. The company’s business model emphasizes fast service, drive-thru operations, and affordable menu options.

Sourcing Ingredients

Good Times Burgers sources its beef from suppliers that provide all-natural, hormone-free, and antibiotic-free meat. The company prioritizes partnering with regional farms and producers to maintain quality control and support local economies.

Their potato suppliers are typically located in Idaho and Colorado, chosen for their ability to meet the restaurant’s specific standards for texture and flavor. Good Times also works with dairy farms to source fresh milk and cream for their frozen custard products.

The restaurant chain aims to balance cost-effectiveness with quality in their ingredient sourcing strategies. This approach allows them to offer competitive pricing while maintaining their commitment to using natural ingredients.

Environmental Impact

Good Times Burgers has implemented several initiatives to reduce its environmental footprint. The company uses recyclable packaging for many of its products, including paper-based wraps and cups.

Energy-efficient appliances and lighting systems have been installed in newer locations to decrease electricity consumption. Some restaurants have also adopted water-saving fixtures to minimize water usage.

The chain has experimented with local composting programs at select locations to divert food waste from landfills. However, these efforts are not yet widespread across all franchises.

Good Times continues to explore ways to reduce its carbon footprint, including optimizing delivery routes and considering alternative energy sources for some operations.

Community Engagement

Good Times Burgers actively participates in local community events and sponsorships. The company often supports youth sports teams and school fundraisers in areas where its restaurants operate.

The chain has established partnerships with local food banks, donating surplus food to help address hunger in nearby communities. Good Times also organizes periodic “give-back” days, where a portion of sales is donated to selected charities.

Employee volunteer programs encourage staff to engage in community service activities. These initiatives aim to foster positive relationships with customers and strengthen the company’s local presence.

Good Times Burgers occasionally collaborates with local businesses for cross-promotions, supporting the economic ecosystem of the communities they serve.

Conclusion

Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard offers indulgent fast food options that can be enjoyed in moderation. Their menu features high-calorie items like burgers, fries, and frozen custard.

While tasty, these foods are often high in fat, sodium, and sugar. Frequent consumption may contribute to weight gain and health issues if not balanced with a healthy diet and exercise.

Good Times does provide some healthier alternatives like grilled chicken sandwiches and side salads. Customers can make informed choices by checking nutrition information available online or in-store.

For those watching their intake, portion control and selecting lighter options can help reduce calorie and fat consumption when dining at Good Times. Sharing larger items or opting for kid-sized portions are practical strategies.

Ultimately, Good Times Burgers & Frozen Custard can be part of a balanced diet when eaten occasionally. Moderation and mindful ordering are key to enjoying their food without compromising overall health goals.