546964 Fri Aug 08 19:52:52 -0700 2008 1 18 Manhattan 0 3942490 I thought Josh "Mr. Cutlets" Ozersky of Grub Street and recent author of the definitive history of "The Hamburger" was merely being controversial by recommending Veselka's burger as one of the best in NYC. It is, after all, a 24 hour Russian coffee shop which makes great pierogi. Then Nick Solares of Beef Aficionado and my new favorite correspondent for A Hamburger Today raved about it (without crediting Josh). So I had to try it. Notwithstanding being char grilled and flattened out which should spell death for my preferred thick and juicy pub burgers, this was perfectly cooked (medium rare) and the bun magically was wide enough to cover it. I wanted the cheese to be more melted but otherwise it was a top 10 and maybe a top 5 contender! As an added bonus, they made an egg cream that blew away Gem Spa's across the street. Who knew? Fri Aug 08 19:52:53 -0700 2008 10173 guttergourmet 1 3942974 Thanks GG. AHT has updated their site to give Ozersky his due. Have you tried Ottomanelli's on the UES yet? I haven't but both now are on my hit list. http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/529685 Sat Aug 09 07:10:01 -0700 2008 3942490 148845 scoopG