The Habit Burger Grill Ranks Highest with Best Burger in Consumer Reports Latest Survey

IRVINE, Calif., July 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumer Reports Magazine has released the results of its latest fast food survey which found the regional better-burger company, the Habit Burger Grill, in the number one spot in the burger category, beating out chains such as In-n-Out Burger, 5 Guys Burgers and Fries and Smashburger.

The survey, which appears in the August 2014 issue of Consumer Reports magazine, had readers survey 96,208 meals at 65 chains. The findings show that Americans are spending more than ever to dine out--topping $680 billion per year--but are demanding more for their money, higher-quality fast food, and greater variety than can be found at the national titans such as McDonald's and Burger King. The fast food survey was the first from the iconic consumer publication since 2011.

"We are beyond elated," said Russ Bendel, CEO of the growing Habit Burger organization which began in Santa Barbara 45 years ago and operates close to 100 restaurants. "Consumer Reports validates what we already knew: guests love the quality and menu variety we offer, from our signature Charbuger to our fresh grilled albacore sandwich and Cobb salad."

The Habit currently operates in California, Arizona and Utah and has recently signed multi-unit franchise deals for Seattle and Las Vegas. The company distinguishes itself in the fast casual better-burger segment with its signature Charburger, menu variety, customer service and value. Some Habit food facts:

• Burgers are always 100% fresh ground beef, not frozen
• Burgers are char-grilled over an open flame for extra flavor
• Lettuce, tomatoes and onions are cut fresh daily
• French fries, onion rings and sweet potato fries are 100% trans-fat free, cooked in soybean oil
• Fresh chicken breasts are hand-filleted and marinated in-house
• Tri-tip is trimmed and marinated in-house
• Salads are fresh, made to order
• House-made ranch dressing is prepared fresh daily in the restaurants
• Every Habit offers a complimentary condiment bar featuring an assortment of peppers, lemons, limes and a range of sauces for guests to spice it up

The Habit, whose motto is "Respect the Burger," was founded in 1969 in Santa Barbara.  There are two Habit Trucks, one based in LA County; the other in Orange County. They feature a full kitchen, digital menu board and sound system and the ability to serve off-site events from 100 to 500+ guests. For more information, visit www.habitburger.com. The Habit is also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/habitburger, on Twitter at @HabitBurger, on YouTube at www.youtube.com/habittube and on Instagram, @habitburgergrill.

About The Habit Burger Grill

The Habit opened in Santa Barbara, California in 1969.  Soon after, 16-year old Brent Reichard got his first job there flipping burgers and a few years later he and his brother Bruce made the life-changing decision to buy it. Through hard work and dedication The Habit has grown, but remains focused on one simple philosophy: always deliver high quality food and great service at reasonable prices.

CONTACT: Lee Healy
Lee Healy Marketing Communications
949-760-3054
[email protected]

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SOURCE The Habit Burger Grill