Probably closer to 3.5 stars. Ted's is definitely institutionalized as a Tempe tradition and landmark, and I can respect that. And I guess as far as char-grilled hotdogs and diner burgers go, they really are quite satisfying, although subject to the occasional stale bun or overfried side. So why can't I get myself to give it 4 stars, despite about 15 visits over the last 13 years?\n\nIs it the crowds?\nIs it the patently obvious middling meat quality?\nIs it the value (or lack of value) per item for stuff that isn't particularly difficult to imitate - and imitate perfectly - at home?\nIs it the distance from where I live (north Phoenix, although I lived for many years in Tempe)?\nIs it the lighting, the short-order style line, or posters on the wall?\n\nI dunno. I really don't. But whatever it is (perhaps its the cumulative effect of all-of-the-above, none of which are too troubling individually), I uniformly have an A-OK yet ho-hum visit whenever I go to Ted's. I suppose when nothing short of a hot dog will do, I will continue to go there, but I wouldn't drive 25 miles out of my way to pay $32.50 for a family of four for good (but not great) picnic food.\n\n*sigh*
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