Tucked in the back corner of the Preston Royal Southwest shopping center, Gazeebo Burgers is just off the beaten path for those new to the area. However, generations of loyal patrons have kept the spot open for over 30 years.
Owned by Ray and Lisa Heydari, Gazeebo Burgers serves up American staples: hamburgers, chicken dishes, salads and veggie burgers. It’s the kind of spot that has something for everyone — a place that can please your kids and your in-laws.
But beware: If the family drama gets out of hand, this burger spot does not serve alcohol.
Pete Sopithakul has been a manager at the restaurant’s flagship location for decades and has witnessed it grow through the years. His favorite thing about Gazeebo Burgers is simple: People leave with smiles on their faces.
“I enjoy working here because people come back and they’re happy,” he says.
Sopithakul tried to retire a few years ago, but customers noticed his absence.
“I didn’t work for three years and they called me. ‘You need to come back because a lot of people are asking about you,’” he says.
Upon his return customers were delighted to see Sopithakul, exclaiming things like “I’m so happy,” on multiple occasions.
Sopithakul has become an icon in the community as his status at the counter has earned him on-sight recognition as a local celebrity.
“‘Hey Mr. Gazeebo!’ They know, they recognize me,” he says.
With games for the kids and large party seating in the iconic gazebo out front, the burger shop is the perfect example of American classic dining.
“We have been going for 36 years and he has watched our boys grow up,” Amie Serral-Moyer, a loyal patron, says in a Facebook post.
And ironically for the burger spot, the grilled chicken sandwich is the most popular item on the menu. Get it plain for $11 or California-style with avocado and cheese — you can even add mushrooms — for $13.
“The chicken is for everybody. They say, ‘It’s the best,’” Sopithakul says. “No where [else] they can get it. It’s the best.”
Aside from chicken sandwiches, guests can enjoy the classic half-pound Gazeebo Burger ($11.50), turkey burgers (the basic one is $10.50), vegetarian burgers (garden or black bean patty, $9.25) chicken tenders ($12) and more. Add on a side of fries (sweet potato or regular) or onion rings for a couple dollars more and you’re on the road to stomach satisfaction.
And don’t forget the honey mustard! It pairs perfectly with every menu item.
Changing with the times
The original location was damaged in 2019 when tornadoes ripped through Dallas. Although Gazeebo Burgers had to close its doors for repairs, the restaurant offered carry-out services until they were able to reopen.
“During the rebuild we would have people come check. ‘When are you going to open?’” Sopithakul says. “It took two years.”
With the tornado and time, things at Gazeebo Burgers have definitely changed over the years. Updates have been made and the space has shifted, but the welcoming atmosphere of the spot has stayed the same.
“I like the old-times ‘vibe’ I get from the decor,” Joyce Meyer, a customer of Gazeebo Burgers, says in a Facebook post.
The brick walls, fixin’s bar and cool-toned neon lighting above the order counter give the place a unique vibe — one that’s hard to put a name to. It’s homey, yet not too homey. It’s retro and contemporary at the same time.
Simply put, it’s the Gazeebo Burgers that people love.
“People [are] born here, grow up here, go away, come back,” Sopithakul says. “Grandpa, mom, kids. They’re all coming here.”
Gazeebo Burgers, 5950 Royal Lane, 214.368.3344
