Maybe my standards are too high. Or maybe most burgers, really are, “just burgers.” But the last few, or really the vast majority are kind of boring, run of the mill beef, standard bun, lettuce, tomato, raw onion, repeat. I’m fully aware I’m a self-described burger purist, I love the simplicity of burgers, when they act like the beautiful burger they’re supposed to be. The problem with anything outside of the stripped down version is that no one ever focuses on the beef itself, they just concentrate on loading it up with as many condiments and toppings as imaginable. But the classic, straight-forward burger can be mundane, if not treated properly, much like the burger with all the bells and whistles. Listen, it’s all about the ingredients, whether it be a couple or dozens, but the cheeseburger with just lettuce, tomato, and cheese almost has nowhere to hide, that’s why I always order it so simple. But truth be told most places have no imagination, there’s no excitement, but I am secretly dying for a burger that can balance the classic approach with some new twists and turns. Wishful thinking maybe, but I yearn for the day that happens. continue reading »