Our first experience with Twisted Root Burger Co. was on a trip to Dallas. The hamburgers were some of the best we have ever had along with the side dishes and the specialty sodas that were different and addicting. From then on, we always made it a point to visit Twisted Root whenever we were in the Dallas area.

The news of a location opening up in Lubbock was just about the most exciting thing we had heard all year. The empty retail space by Alamo Drafthouse really needed a trendy eatery and that is just what it got. The new location offers up great food, a full bar, and a large patio. Our gluten-free friends also have another option to get some tasty food.

The Patio
The patio seats 70 people under a strand of decorative bar lights. A few of the tables seat two, but most are larger tables for big groups.

The Decor
Twisted Root is known for being funky and a little snarky. The Decor consists of Lubbock and Texas Tech guitar cases, signs, license plates, and posters along with the state of Texas made of glass bottles.  Doors hang whimsically over the bar (and yes, it is a full bar). There are two TVs on each side of the restaurant. Instruments line the entrance and beer signs can be spotted throughout the entrance and seating areas. Whenever you order, don’t forget to look up! You will see tons of old records.

The Menu
To order, stand in line, look up at the menus and order at the register. The menu consists of signature hamburgers, build-your-own, hot dogs, salads, sides, and shakes. The side dishes are pretty close to the best part of Twisted Root. You can choose between fried pickles, fries, onion strings, fried green beans, fried pork skins, and sweet potato chips. We suggest bringing friends, everyone get something different, and share! For your main entree, you can choose a beef patty, turkey, buffalo, and veggie on a sesame, whole wheat, pretzel, or gluten free bun. The toppings include (but are not limited to) guacamole, fried egg, cheddar, bacon, goat cheese, blue cheese, mushrooms, hatch green chilis, and peppercorn ranch. Need something sweet? Try a hand-spun custard shake. Gluten-free friends, there are many options for you!

The Drinks and Pickles
This interesting pair is what gives Twisted Root its unique character. These two items are what keeps you coming back for more! Right now (and the flavors do change), you can choose from the Blueberry Twisted Homemade Lemonade or the Vanilla Butter-Nut Twisted Root Beer. We went with the root beer. We have all probably had dill and bread & butter pickles, but have you ever had sweet and spicy pickles or atomic pickles?

The Food
At the register you will receive a little piece of paper with the name of a well known character (Chuck Norris, Carrot Top, Norman Bates, etc..). Once you hear your character’s name that means your food is ready! The gentleman who announces the names is a character himself. Be ready for great one-liners and even some singing. As expected, the food was great. The burger is cooked a perfect medium well (unless you request otherwise) and the presentation was appetizing. We went with the fried pickles and fries as our sides. The burger pictured below is the Ranch Hand – Swiss cheese, peppercorn ranch, and bacon. Feeling saucy? Try one or all three of Twisted Root’s signature sauces (chipotle ketchup, secret BBQ sauce, and spicy mustard).