What is an All American burger? I had never really thought about it much. Like most Americans, I have had my fair share of burgers at fast food restaurants and backyard barbecues. I have enjoyed all types of toppings from bacon, guacamole, mushrooms, various cheeses and dozens of others.
I recently befriended an Italian couple who were visiting the U.S. for the first time. They had a very defined concept of the All American burger, but were disappointed when they could not seem to locate it. They had ordered burgers at a few fast food restaurants and had been greatly disappointed. They had also tried a few “gourmet” burgers which seemed to be anything but American. They were convinced that the All American burger was a myth or tall tale along the lines of Paul Bunyon.
After some research, I hoped that we would find the missing burger at 5 Napkin Burger in Manhattan. While I am not sure that we discovered the “All American” burger, I did have one of the best burgers that I have ever eaten. The Original 5 Napkin Original has gruyere cheese, caramelized onions, and rosemary aoili on a white roll. The burger was juicy with a beautiful combination of flavors. It is certainly in a class by itself. My Italian friends loved it. They took photos of the burger, the table, the waiter and the entire restaurant. (Five Napkin’s butcher shop decor is very interesting.)
There was a downside to this journey down burger lane. The shoestring fries were adequate, but a little disappointing. We had to upgrade to the Tuscan fries which were much better. Also, the burgers are quite pricey. These are special occasion burgers only. I am also not sure why sushi is such a large part of the menu. I did not sample the sushi selection, but it did surprise me to see it on the menu.
I have decided that the All American burger is just as diverse as the American people. It does not have to conform to any particular formula. However, it does have to taste good!
5 Napkin Burger
626 Ninth Avenue, New York, NY 212.757.2277 www.fivenapkinburger.com
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A typical Australian burger is a beast unto itself. Can’t be called an Aussie burger without the addition of a slice of beetroot and a fried egg. Hmmmm.
Beetroot and egg? Wow! I have never come across that in the U.S.
The burger sounds great! I agree, I don’t think there is such a thing as the “All American Burger.” But there are so many great, diverse burgers… Great post! And now I want a burger!
Burgers are so hot right now. I was craving one last night and nothing was going to make it go away without fresh-ground beef and cheddar cheese. Too bad mine was on a baguette; too rigid.
It would have been so much better with Gruyere and a soft white roll. Mmm. Thanks!