Five Guys burgers come to Penrith right as Sydney opens up out of lockdown

A new burger chain has arrived in Sydney imported from the US, and these three friends couldn’t wait to drive across town on Freedom Day for a visit.

What is an hour drive when you are on the hunt for a good burger?

That was the go for Bankstown friends Brendan Ngo, Tony Lam and Emerald Hoang as they jumped in the car bound for Penrith to try out new American fast food outlet, Five Guys, which has opened its first ever eatery in Australia.

“I saw it overseas and when I heard it was coming here, I was excited,” Ngo told Kitchen Confidential.

The trio, who are all 21, have not been able to work for nearly four months as they are employed by Bankstown’s Replay Karaoke Lounge and Bar.

Five Guys restaurant has opened in Penrith. (L-R) Brendan Ngo Tony Lam and Emerald Hoang travelled from Bankstown on Freedom Day to try the burgers. Picture: Jonathan Ng

“It is the first day of freedom – why not get in the car and have some fun. It has been too long. I don’t like eating at home; I like eating in a restaurant and vibing with mates.”

Five Guys officially opened its doors for the first time last month but has been open only for takeaway due to lockdowns. With restrictions eased, customers are this week able to venture in store.

Cameron Hayes and Chloe Fletcher, both 20, live in the Hills District and drove roughly 40 minutes to try a Five Guys burger.

“It is nice to try something new,” said Hayes, who is studying law and psychology and works at Woolworths. “It is a long way to drive for a burger but it is worth it, I think.”

Seagrass Boutique Hospitality Group is behind Five Guys Australia, signing a deal with the Panthers Group to take over the site next to the Panthers Leagues Club.

There are already plans for further Five Guys stores to open in Sydney and interstate.