We seldom conduct reviews on fast food restaurants in this column, but given the hype surrounding Jack in the Box, we decided to make an exception.
Established in 1951, San Diego-based Jack in the Box has become a culinary phenomenon on the West Coast and in the Southwest. For many years, Hoosiers who go to those regions to travel, conduct business or attend college have come back with stories about the growing fast food chain cuisine.
In January, dozens of people gathered at Indiana’s first Jack in the Box when it opened in Greenwood, and two other area locations have opened since then.
Recently I made a visit to Jack in the Box’s Eastside location on Post Road to see what all the fuss is.
On your first visit you might notice that the parking lot is kind of small and getting in it can be kind of tricky, but don’t let that deter you.
Depending on what time you go it might be pretty busy, so also be prepared for a wait that is a little longer than average. However, it may not be entirely the staff’s fault – since there is a great variety of items on the menu it probably takes a while for some customers to decide.
Jack in the Box has all the traditional American fast food favorites, from cheeseburgers and fries, to chicken sandwiches, onion rings and salads. At the same time, those looking for a little variety can also order unique items such as deep fried tacos, chicken fajitas, and meaty breakfast burritos.
Some trademark Jack in the Box classics include its Jumbo Jack and 100 percent sirloin burgers, Jack’s chicken club, sourdough sandwiches and its signature ice cream shakes.
Another neat thing about Jack in the Box is that unlike most fast food places, you can order breakfast throughout the day and evening. Popular choices include the supreme croissant, the extreme sausage sandwich, breakfast bowls and cinnamon rolls.
Finally, Jack in the Box has a nice kid’s menu with something that every little one can enjoy.
As a first time guest, I decided to get a combo with a Coke, fries and the All American Jack, which is like a double cheeseburger topped with lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayo-onion sauce, mustard and ketchup.
Jack in the Box claims to serve fresh food and to “not make it until you order it,” and I believe that. The burger was very tasty and satisfying, with the substance of a double burger you may get from Wendy’s or Hardee’s but with even more substance and flavor.
It is also important to note that every Jack in the Box restaurant has a diverse menu, but not all carry the exact same items. Some people may see something they like when they visit the company’s website , but may not find it at a particular location. If you view the menu online, be prepared to have a “plan B.”
Prices at Jack in the Box’s aren’t the cheapest, but they are competitive with most fast food places that serve quality products. Depending on which meal you buy, for example, you can end up with a large drink, fry and big burger for $4.99.
Some people say things always start out great when restaurants first arrive to a city, and then the quality slips and people get more used to them. However, I have a good feeling about Jack and the Box, and think they should do well in the Indianapolis market.
