_2.png)
Behind the Counter and Beyond the Burger: A&W’s Tamara Williamson Dishes on Secret Menus, MS Fundraising, and the Power of Onion Rings
If you’ve recently driven by A&W in Steinbach and spotted a sign for fish tacos or a cod sandwich, no, you weren’t imagining things. These ocean-inspired options are part of A&W’s limited-time offerings, and according to local operator Tamara Williamson, they’ve been a hit.
“People ask for fish more than you’d think,” Tamara says. “It’s a nice way to switch up the menu.”
But while the fish may be fresh, there’s something even more important on the horizon: Burgers to Beat MS, happening August 21st.
“This is our 17th year,” Tamara explains. “Since 2008, A&W has raised over $21 million for the MS Society of Canada.” On that day, $2 from every Teen Burger—whether it’s a single, double, or Beyond—goes toward MS research and support. And if you want to donate before or after August 21st, you can do that too. “Even a $2 donation gets you a booklet of coupons,” she adds.
More Than Just Fast Food
If you’ve ever walked into A&W Steinbach in the morning, you’ve likely noticed the warm, familiar vibe. Staff greet regulars by name—or by the sound of their voice in the drive-thru.
That’s not by accident.
“For many, this is their first job,” Tamara says. “We always say, if you can work in fast food, you can work anywhere. You learn time pressure, communication, customer service—skills for life.”
The sense of community goes beyond customer service. “We’ve had people stay with us for over 10 years,” she shares. “Some even met here and got married.” A&W, it turns out, has been the start of more than a few resumes—and a few love stories, too.
The (Actual) Secret Menu
Think you know everything on the A&W menu? Think again. According to Tamara, there are a few “off-menu” options that regulars and longtime staff keep alive by popular demand.
One of those? The ’56 Burger.
“It has cheddar, lettuce, tomato, and mozza sauce. A little bit of everything,” she says. “We’ll still make it for people if they ask.” Another under-the-radar favorite? The double cheese, double bacon burger. Not officially listed but always welcomed.
And yes, staff often make their own creations behind the scenes. “When you’ve been here long enough, you start building your own combos. It’s kind of a rite of passage,” Tamara laughs.
From Breakfast to Blends
So what’s Tamara’s go-to order? “I’m a breakfast-anytime person,” she says. “Sausage and Egger on an unseeded bun and hash browns. I just really like the hash browns.”
Another hidden gem? The Fresh Blends. Recently returned to the menu, these icy smoothies come in mango passionfruit, mixed berry, and strawberry. “We missed them for a long time,” she says, “but they’re back and people are loving them.”
Yes, the Onion Rings Are Handmade (and Yes, People Cry)
One of the most surprising things for many customers is that the onion rings aren’t just deep-fried—they’re hand-breaded in the kitchen. “It really is done with care,” Tamara says. “And yes, if someone’s crying in the back, it’s probably the onions.”
Don’t Forget the Parade
With Pioneer Days approaching, Tamara and her team are already prepping for another tradition: the A&W float in the annual parade. Expect to see the beloved Root Beer Bear, lots of energy, and a whole bunch of root beer-flavored suckers flying into the crowd.
“It’s a lot of fun,” she says. “A crazy, intense walk, but a great way to see the community come out and enjoy the day.”
And if all that parade excitement leaves you hungry? You’re in luck. The route ends right near A&W.
Whether you’re in for a Teen Burger, a mango smoothie, or an off-menu secret special, A&W in Steinbach has something sizzling—served up with heart, history, and a whole lot of community spirit. And just like your breakfast combo, the Country 107 Morning Show is proudly served up by A&W Steinbach.