Opening just recently on Sept. 11, Wells Roadside brings the vacant lot where Galaxy Drive-in closed back to life. This new approach to the Drive-in focuses on having a lively patio and plenty of outdoor seating.
Hearing about it just last week, I was excited to give it a try. As I arrived the first thing that I noticed was the line that stretched all the way across the restaurant. However, the familiar smell of American cuisine kept me interested and I made my way toward the line.
It was evident that many others were just as excited as I was to give Wells Roadside a try, as I ended up waiting in line for about 50 minutes. However, while I was waiting, an employee came and welcomed me and some other guests and gave us some paper menus to look at while we waited. Another worker there was serving beverages to those waiting in line. Even with the extra attention the employees took to the patrons waiting in the long line, it was still a very long wait. I hope in the future they’re able to have more people taking orders to speed up the long wait.
While I was waiting in line I looked around the layout of the building, as I was curious as to how they would stay open year round, especially during the freezing winters here in Minnesota. I noticed above the seating and waiting areas there were overhead heaters, similar to those you would see at an outdoor sports arena. There were also garage doors that could be put down to keep the warm air in during those cold months. The new design is definitely one of the more interesting parts of the restaurant but it definitely lacks a lot of the character the old Galaxy Drive-In had. The restaurant is now painted black and doesn’t really stand out when passing by. I didn’t even notice it the first time I had driven past it. There’s little to no decorations inside of the restaurant. The only thing that stuck out to me was a small paper detailing the history of the property leading up to now, which I thought was really interesting and something I was hoping to see and learn more about. I would describe the new design as uninspired and somewhat unoriginal.
The menu consists of two different kinds of burgers: the “Wells Smash” and the “Oklahoma Smash,” as well as their vegan counterparts. There was another section of the menu labeled “Not Burgers” with other options such as a wagyu dog, salmon sandwich, a “Smashed Jimmy” (sausage and egg breakfast sandwich) and a salad. There were also multiple ice cream options and a variety of different beverages.
After the long wait I was finally able to order and I decided on the “Oklahoma SmashBurger” which consists of a single wagyu beef patty, caramelized onions and American cheese right in between what they refer to on the menu as “Martins Bun.” I also got their hand cut fries and a vanilla shake as I had seen many others order that while I was waiting and I just had to try it. It was around 18 dollars just for myself and that’s including a tip.
Once I ordered it only took a little over five minutes for them to call my order number. I went and picked up my food from the window and found somewhere to sit down. I decided to sit in the outdoor seating area that wasn’t covered by a roof. I noticed that a couple groups of people there were taking advantage of the dog friendly patio and had brought their furry friends. Dogs are very much welcomed at Wells Roadside, there are water bowls that anyone can fill up for their dogs and also menu items such as dog ice cream. Another feature of the outdoor patio was a fireplace that can be lit at request. I like a lot of these features, and they definitely add to the dining experience. One downside to the fully outdoor seating is there were a lot of bugs flying around the patio. A few wasps were swarming me and my shake for almost the entire time, and that definitely worsened my experience, but that’s to be expected when eating outdoors.
Finally, I was ready to try my food. I had grown restless after the very long wait. I first tried the shake because it was pretty hot on the patio, and I didnt want it to melt right in front of me. I thought it was a serviceable shake and it was a good start to the meal. Overall, it didn’t blow me away but if you ever stop by I’d recommend you give it a try. It was topped with sprinkles and a cherry which was a nice touch. After trying the shake I was ready to give the “Oklahoma Burger” a try. After the first few bites I have to say it was definitely the biggest disappointment of the night. The burger was not warm at all and the bun wasn’t toasted very thoroughly either. The patty was cooked pretty well, but it had dried up by the time it ended up on my plate. However, my dinner was saved once I tried the hand cut fries, they were crispy and warm. Overall, I would have to say the 50 minute wait was not worth it for what I got in the end.
After finishing up my meal I was left with a little disappointment, but after looking around and seeing all the other people enjoying the outdoor patio on a beautiful summer evening I realized there is a lot more to Wells Roadside than just the food. The great customer service, community and cute dogs looking for fallen fries on the floor definitely put a smile on my face.
If you are on the fence about going to Wells Roadside, I would urge you to go and give it a try. It’s a great environment with classic American food. Bring your friends and family and enjoy a nice evening on the patio.
Wells Roadside: ★★★☆☆
