All About Bill Gray’s in 2026

Bill Gray’s is a restaurant chain located in Webster, New York, near Rochester, that started back in 1938. With 14 locations across the Rochester area in western New York, the chain includes seven tap room-style establishments and a tavern-style grill called Flaherty’s.

We will know all about Bill Gray’s in this post. From its history to delicious menus, we are covering it all. Stay tuned to learn about the “home of the world’s greatest cheeseburger.”

Bill Gray’s History Timeline

1938

• A young man named Bill Gray, employed at Eastman Kodak for 17 cents an hour, seeks extra income to support his family.
• On weekends, Bill starts selling hot dogs and soda from a small roadside stand near his home in Webster, NY.
• Alongside his wife, Alberta, they work up to 18 hours a day on weekends to build their small business.

Image Source: Bill Gray’s

1942

• Realizing his weekend business earns more than his full-time job at Kodak, Bill decides to focus on the restaurant business full-time.
• This marks the official beginning of Bill Gray’s Restaurants.

Late 1940s – 1950s

• Bill and Alberta’s dedication allows the restaurant to grow.
• They expand their menu, adding items like ground steak sandwiches, cheeseburgers, and fries, and attract a loyal customer base.
• Their family grows, with 11 children eventually joining the business.
• Bill Gray’s operates successfully at the original Ridge Road location in Webster.

1959

• The family moves their business to a larger and more modern location on East Henrietta Road in Henrietta, called the “Round Up.”

1963

• Bill leaves the Henrietta restaurant to work with his longtime friend and Webster neighbor, Bruce Hegedorn.

2026

• Decades later, Bill Gray’s stands strong with 13 locations across Western New York, continuously voted by locals as the definitive home for Rochester’s best burger and community dining.

Image Source: Bill Gray’s

Bill Gray’s Celebrated Burgers

Bill Gray’s is known for its signature burgers, and they claim it to be the greatest cheeseburger in the world. Bill Gray’s says, “Our premium ground steak, two slices of American cheese, and a whole lot of love make our cheeseburger unbeatable.”

So we know they’re crafted with high-quality ingredients and careful cooking methods that lock in flavor. The result is a variety of crowd-pleasing options. Here are a few:

Skilled chefs ensure each patty is cooked to preserve juiciness and tenderness, setting Bill Gray’s burgers apart from the rest. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these burgers make for a memorable dining experience.

Bill Gray’s Famous Fish Fry

Bill Gray’s fish fry is known for its crispy, flavorful coating and sustainable sourcing. Each fish fillet comes from responsible sources, battered with a special blend of spices, and fried to a golden crisp. The fry strikes a perfect balance between a crunchy exterior and moist, tender fish inside. The dish is also served with a variety of pairings, making it a popular choice among diners.

Tackling the Rochester “Plate” Tradition

You cannot talk about an authentic Western New York diner experience without mentioning the famous “Garbage Plate” style of eating, and Bill Gray’s serves up one of the best in the region. Listed on the menu simply as the Plate Burger, this heavy-duty comfort dish features a base of macaroni salad and French fries (or home fries), topped with two burger patties or Zweigle’s hot dogs, and smothered entirely in their signature, spicy meat hot sauce, raw onions, and mustard. It is an absolute rite of passage for any visitor to Rochester.

Abbott’s Frozen Custard Partnership

To round out a classic meal, most standalone Bill Gray’s locations (including Chili, Gates, Henrietta, and Irondequoit) feature a fully operational Abbott’s Frozen Custard counter right inside the restaurant. This allows diners to pair their savory ground steak sandwiches with freshly made, premium slow-churned frozen custard, specialty sundae bowls, or classic Abbott’s “Flurries” and “Turtles” without having to make a second stop.

Vegetarian Options at Bill Gray’s

For those seeking meat-free options, Bill Gray’s offers dishes made with fresh vegetables, grains, and herbs. Perfect for Meatless Mondays or any day, here are some highlights:

• Vegetable Burger: A house-made patty of fresh vegetables and legumes, delivering all the burger enjoyment without the meat.
• Tofu Substitutions: Protein-rich tofu is available as a substitute in several dishes, making meals both filling and satisfying.
• Vegetarian Desserts: Choose from seasonal fruit pies topped with non-dairy whipped cream for a sweet finish.

Bill Gray’s recipes use plant-based ingredients to create dishes that even meat lovers will appreciate. From appetizers to main courses, they emphasize natural flavors without overpowering sauces, making their vegetarian menu a strong draw for all diners.

Online Ordering at Bill Gray’s

Bill Gray’s has optimized its service to reduce wait times, both in-person and online. Their efficient delivery ensures your food arrives fresh and hot, whether you’re hosting a gathering or just avoiding cooking. With quick service and responsive customer support, they’re prepared to handle any issues that arise, guaranteeing a smooth ordering experience.

Plus, Bill Gray’s mobile app makes ordering even easier. Downloadable on multiple devices, the app offers exclusive deals and discounts. For additional offers, you can always explore Bill Gray’s deals here. 

Bill Gray’s Gift Card Information

Bill Gray’s gift cards are a great way to share the joy of delicious food with friends and family. With unique designs for birthdays, holidays, and other occasions, these gift cards offer the perfect treat for any event. There are no hidden fees, and Bill Gray’s ensures that these cards never expire, allowing recipients to enjoy their meals whenever they like.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bill Gray’s

What employment opportunities are available at Bill Gray’s?
Bill Gray’s offers a range of job opportunities, from entry-level roles to management positions. Employees receive training, health insurance, paid time off, and meal discounts, along with a company-provided uniform.

Does Bill Gray’s sponsor local sports teams or events?
Yes, Bill Gray’s supports local sports teams and events through sponsorships as part of their commitment to the community. Sponsorships are available to those who meet specific eligibility criteria, emphasizing positive community impact and youth sports.

Are there any unique traditions or annual events at Bill Gray’s?
Known as a Rochester favorite, Bill Gray’s celebrates unique traditions and hosts annual events, including anniversary specials, holiday promotions, and community involvement through local support initiatives.

Can customers request custom or off-menu items?
Yes, Bill Gray’s offers menu flexibility, allowing customers to customize orders or request off-menu items to suit their preferences.

How many Bill Gray’s locations are open in 2026?
Bill Gray’s currently operates 13 locations throughout the Greater Rochester and Western New York area. This includes traditional standalone restaurants, 7 specialized Tap Rooms, an outlet inside The Strong National Museum of Play, and a partner location at Flaherty’s Three-Flags Inn in Macedon.

Does Bill Gray’s offer student, military, or senior citizen discounts?
No, Bill Gray’s does not run an ongoing, chain-wide general student or senior discount. But it offers a free meal to veterans and active-duty military on Veterans Day. To compare how this offer stacks up against other national retail programs, feel free to review our master list of student discounts and offers in the USA.