John, you definitely sound like a burger connoisseur of sorts. I haven't tried Hardee's before but maybe I will now. We do have a few here in Canada as far as I know. There is a Canadian west coast restaurant chain (White Spot) that makes some good burgers if you are ever in this neck of the woods.
Actually I was (in my youth) a chef.
I understand the mechanics and science and art to great food.
Great food doesn't have to be fancy or made from obscure ingredients to be wonderful. It just needs to be done properly. Some of the best dishes came from household kitchens done in a rustic fashion...tart tatin is a prime example.
A cast iron skillet, apples, sugar, butter and a pie crust are all that's needed. Because when you don't own a pie tin and don't have enough time to bake a cobbler...it's a great solution.
Burgers can be done really well and easily if care is taken. And it doesn't have to "break the bank" either.
All the ingredients together to make the beef the "star" of the sandwich. To have some great fries to go with to break up the monotony...and a wonderful beverage to wash it all down.
Then all you need is some company to complete a wonderful memory that will last a lifetime.
It's not as easy as it looks... otherwise everyone would have memorable burgers. But obviously...
Whataburger has got to be one of the worst for places to eat lately. Lack of condiments, soggy bun, poor service, grease everywhere, and cold to lukewarm food. We will never go back.
Used to be decent...but no longer.
If you happen to find a McDonald's that is being properly run...their food is edible...but you taste it for hours long afterwards due to all the processing and artificial ingredients. But it's a corporation... consistency is their thing...just like Taco Bell. Used to be great back when they actually did have a bell and used coconut oil to deep fry everything. (Softshell tacos weren't there) I actually have eaten at one way back when.
Actually though...
The Western Sizzler used to have a great burger...one of the best. They used wood and gas for their grill, great beef and buns as well.
They have long since gone away from those roots if there are any left.