608816 Wed Apr 01 19:36:58 -0700 2009 111 61 Austin 0 4559608 Burgers. I've been eating them a lot recently, probing the depths of what is and what can be, and trying not to pay attention to conventional wisdom on the subject. Removing prohibitions on venues for all reasons, who serves the tastiest burger? At the inflection point of good, fast, cheap, who is doing the best job? Who is in the running? Casino el Camino looms over the field, but with mixed results; they're undeniably erratic, sometimes serving juicy greatness and periodically posting up dry, gray disks of despair. So, Austin! The year is 2009, and we have more options then ever. No limits, no rules, who offers the Best Burger In Town? And who offers the Golden Paretoburger, the burger that is most delicious for the price-convenience index? I've recently surveyed the following multiple times and will be releasing rankings, but want to get the ball rolling for the brainstorm must-visit list. I do not want to miss any burger in town that is pretty-good-or-better. Sullivan's Wink Five Guys Casino Artz Fuddrucker's Carl's Jr. Culver's P. Terry's Short Stop Mighty Fine Jackalope Whataburger Galaxy Cafe Z Tejas Red Robin Cheesecake Factory Houston's (and several sleepers I'll retain... for now.) The only rule: must be in Austin city limits (sorry Poodie's et al). Local joints preferred, but we shouldn't miss chains if they are meritorious. Leave no good burger unturned! So what is missing from the list? Fuego's? Trio? Make sure I don't miss a single worthy location as I eat my way to the cardiologist. My current rankings are guaranteed to surprise and shock the Chowarati! Wed Apr 01 19:36:58 -0700 2009 47618 tom in austin 1 4559634 I had a good jalapeno cheeseburger at Texas Chili Parlor yesterday. Wed Apr 01 19:45:59 -0700 2009 4559608 89611 Ashforth 1 4559719 Perry's steak house have a kobi burger for lunch. If it dosen't have to be beef, chicken burger at Joe's coffee shop turkey burger at Austin java company Wed Apr 01 20:18:49 -0700 2009 4559608 226933 nutellafan 1 4559961 Austin Land and Cattle. Not only is it the best burger in town, but from 5 til 7pm on Mon-Fri you can get it for $4.50. Wed Apr 01 22:12:27 -0700 2009 4559608 194904 uarent 1 4560221 I'm a thick, gourmet burger man myself. My favorites are roughly in order with a heavy focus downtown. 1) Mulberry Wine Bar 2) Four Seasons Trio (Saturday lunch only) 3) Parkside 4) Counter Cafe 5) Jo's Coffee (2nd St at least) For the thin guys I've only liked Mooyah's and Top Notch. Others that I've tried lately: Lambert's (lunch), The Tavern, Cafe Java (on Metric), Player's, Casino el Camino (haven't had a good burger there in a while), Five Guy's, Mighty Fine Burgers I've been meaning to try: Z'Tejas and Jackalope Thu Apr 02 04:37:25 -0700 2009 4559608 19611 Carter B. 2 4560910 It's hard for me to name an ultimate favorite. Depends on the day...am I hungering for a thick gourmet-style burger from a sit-down joint or do I want a thin, griddle-kissed patty from a fast food place? Lately, I've been on a kick to try all the old fast food institutions. The main targets have not all been hit yet, but so far I've tried Top Notch, Dan's, Fran's, Player's, Sandy's, and Hill-berts. Next up will be Burger-Tex and Dirty Martin's. I would try Casino el Camino but I really don't get down to 6th street very often. If I had to pick one now, I would vote Top Notch's burger, then Dan's, then Hill-berts, then Fran's, Player's, and finally Sandy's. There's something about the use of charcoal versus a griddle that seems to kick up the flavor of Top Notch's burgers (plus I love their rings), but Dan's seems to put out a well-seasoned griddled patty. I want to like Hill-berts, but most of the time the burger leans towards bland. I've never understood the love for Sandy's burgers; perhaps, it's the super cheap meal deal that makes people like them so much. Thu Apr 02 09:07:12 -0700 2009 4560221 34145 verily 3 4562046 Oh yes! Fran's. That's my top so far. Perfect greasy goodness and butter toasted buns. Thu Apr 02 14:13:10 -0700 2009 4560910 12615 amysuehere 4 4564447 Fran's is my favorite too. And you're right about the buns. They give Fran's the edge over Dan's because there's a sheen of grease on top of the bun, not just the part that touches the burger - burger heaven enveloped in grease. Fri Apr 03 09:41:23 -0700 2009 4562046 260938 agoodbite 1 4560495 Wow! What an awesome undertaking. I can't wait to see the results. I just hope this is not some elaborate April Fool's joke with the winner being Burger King. I'd add Blvd Grill on Far West and Gabby's at Burnet and Mopac. I wouldn't say they are the best, but should both be on the list. Thu Apr 02 07:00:10 -0700 2009 4559608 97948 ssouth 2 4560826 If it doesn't have to be beef, my all time favorite is the Hawaiian chicken at Blvd. Grill...with the fried jalapeno and onion strips on the side instead of fries. Top Notch mesquite burger fills a certain craving from time to time. Been meaning to try Kona and Trio for lunch. I really don't understand the attraction to P. Terry's - worst, dried up little bitty burger (half the size of the bun - seriously) I've had Thu Apr 02 08:40:30 -0700 2009 4560495 12615 amysuehere 1 4561036 Jackalope Cesar Burger. There is no finer burger in Austin. It's thick, well seasoned, cooked perfectly to order (medium rare for me), and a light Cesar dressing on the lettuce on top of this brilliant work of art is just icing. Served on a fresh bun that has plenty of spring, but isn't too soft or sweet, and this, to me, is my favorite burger in Austin, hands down. Thu Apr 02 09:39:59 -0700 2009 4559608 81120 foodiegal71 2 4562051 I've tried twice to get a burger at Jacalope and have been completely ignored by the waitstaff/bartender and have ended up walking out both times. Am I too old to be in there? Thu Apr 02 14:14:05 -0700 2009 4561036 12615 amysuehere 3 4562943 God knows I feel that way every time I walk in that place. That and like I'm lacking tattoos. I think a good, "HEY JACK! YO! OVER HERE!" would actually be OK in that establishment. And I agree with you 100% on P. Terry's. If I am with friends who want to eat there (and many do), I go for the chicken burger. It's a better alternative for sure. Thu Apr 02 19:05:59 -0700 2009 4562051 81120 foodiegal71 3 4564263 You have to order in the back, where the kitchen is - not at the bar. It's worth the effort. Fri Apr 03 08:53:05 -0700 2009 4562051 98500 Bat Guano 1 4561783 I would say that you should try one of the burgers at Zax Pints & Plates. ANd Central Market Cafe on the Run makes a decent thicker burger. Thu Apr 02 13:05:55 -0700 2009 4559608 244555 barleybob9 2 4561803 I insist that Hill's takes it rightful place on the list. My more controversial pick is Phil's Yes I know there are tons of kids, but I like the burgers and sweet potato fries I need to know more about Jackalope, I have never heard of their burger(s) Same thing about Gabby's, I used to live not too far from there and never noticed it Amysue I agree with you assessment of P. Terry's (I appreciate what he is trying to do, but I think it fails) Thu Apr 02 13:11:17 -0700 2009 4561783 17506 Chefdavis 2 4562160 Can't knock the grocery store cafe; one of the best burgers I've ever had in my life so far came from a Kroger deli; the young fry cook there worked some serious magic. I like Central Market's burgers, but it's the fries that I go to their cafe for. Their fries are always nicely seasoned and so crispy on the outside, soft on the inside. Thu Apr 02 14:44:42 -0700 2009 4561783 34145 verily 1 4562703 Give Mike's Pub a try. http://www.mikes-pub.com/ Thu Apr 02 17:37:26 -0700 2009 4559608 24991 mkwng 1 4563090 my vote is going to be for parkside. the beef is ground in house, the buns made fresh daily, and the aioli is great! also, have a fried egg option, can't beat that! also had a really good burger at the woodland recently, the brioche buns are also made in house daily and are quite tasty! i also tried the homemade veggie burger at the woodland and thought it was great as well. thank you for reminding me of ALC burgers, i have not had one of those in a while, and they are fantastic! i am surprised that a couple of other old school austin burgers joints were not mentioned; hut's, dart bowl? Thu Apr 02 19:55:27 -0700 2009 4559608 223064 Philip Speer 2 4564232 has anyone been to Nau's Pharmacy lately? I remember them as being quite good, but honestly I haven't been in sooooo many years... Fri Apr 03 08:45:00 -0700 2009 4563090 12615 amysuehere 3 4923952 I lived the 12th & West Lynn area for 14 yrs and used to eat at Nau's almost once a week. I knew almost everyone who worked in the store. I've not been there in 8yrs, I hope it's still there and still as good as I remember it. Thu Aug 06 15:13:07 -0700 2009 4564232 60297 austx03 2 4565764 I forgot to mention Woodland. Thanks for reminding me of it. It also fits the other thread as a place with decent food that serves Live Oak on tap. Fri Apr 03 15:45:54 -0700 2009 4563090 97948 ssouth 1 4566149 Team! First, we should begin the platonic burger breakdown. Which burger is the perfect burger floating on heavenly crests in some mythical limbo? Apart from the opinions of flavor, these are standalone scalar descriptors. Dimensions to divine include thickness, fat %, non-meat mixins to the grind, cooking medium, default temperature, toppings, and bun. As we parlay about the burger venues, we should at the very least include these data points. Example: Location: Five Guys Thickness: Not that thick. Single-patty burgers are called "little". Double (normal) burger recommended if you're hungry. Fat %: Decent. I'd guess this stands south of 85%. Juiciness was high despite the heavy grill hand (required by company policy). NMM: None as far as I could tell. This seems to be straight-ahead ground beef. Cooking medium: Grilled. Default temperature: Well-done, and defiantly so. Burger remained somewhat juicy despite this unfortunate policy. Toppings: Fifteen are offered, and they seem decently fresh, but I've only tried the plain-w/-cheese and a standard (lettuce-tomato-onion-cheese-mustard) variant. Bun: soaked through with grease in mild travel on both visits. While that didn't turn me off to the Full review: (etc.) Pick up what I'm laying down? These pieces of header information will make it easier on folks who are seeking a different burger. Some folks want a thick, hearty patty loaded with mixed-in ground sweetbreads, quail egg yolks, and shredded 23-year parm; cooked medium-nearly-medium-rare. Others want the most utilitarian, skinny greasebomb blasted on a griddle and blackened hockey puck-style by default, with two-week-old lettuce wilting atop, and so on. These core parameters will help guide us to the burger we're individually seeking. If you're a skinny-burger fiend and have a craving, a 1.5" patty is only gonna make you mad, and vice versa. Burgers have enough variety that we should apply some rigor in their taxonomy! More to come... Fri Apr 03 18:05:28 -0700 2009 4559608 47618 tom in austin 2 4566443 I know that you were just using five guys as an example, but I couldn't remember Are their burgers grilled or griddled? thanks Fri Apr 03 20:32:23 -0700 2009 4566149 17506 Chefdavis 3 4566980 I could swear they were griddled when I ate there. I was wondering the same thing when I read this. Sat Apr 04 08:14:24 -0700 2009 4566443 106053 stephanieh 1 4569824 P. Terry's burgers are wonderful, through and through, Fran's are wonderful, Dan's Hamburger's are great, I still haven't made it to Mighty Fine. I've heard so many great things about it. The restaurant at Central Market has pretty good burgers. Sun Apr 05 16:04:59 -0700 2009 4559608 268744 nyc_girl13 1 4570729 ive had fuegos burger, it was good. casino el camino has usually been pretty good with their burgers whenever i get one. ive had the burger from jos on second that and that was good as well. i usually hit up the triumverate of burgers on the northeast side - frans (pretty much the exact same as dans, i think. used to frequent dans on manchaca and cant say too much seems different); hillberts (what can i say, theyre open on sundays. their bacon cheeseburger on wheat buns is good, plus they deliver; and burgertex (really on the west side but its like five min away from my place) - they have godly buns and fries. Sun Apr 05 23:53:02 -0700 2009 4559608 242786 glorpisgod 1 4577229 Always wanted to try HUT's are they any good? http://www.cafepress.com/ralphweb1 Tue Apr 07 20:36:15 -0700 2009 4559608 280974 spacealien123 2 4577634 Hut's makes a pretty good burger, it's a classic Austin place, its been there for years, longer than I've been alive. You should definitely go Wed Apr 08 05:33:38 -0700 2009 4577229 268744 nyc_girl13 2 4579755 Hut's is pretty good, only been there once though.. I vote for Fran's as best grease burger. Top Notch is a good burger, I'm also very fond of Burger Tex at 183 & 35... very close to work and a very nice burger. Wed Apr 08 17:27:15 -0700 2009 4577229 219685 Defman 1 4577323 Riata Bar & Grill, in NW Austin in the Riata neighborhood (the name probably gives light to that) has a great burger called the "Some like it hot" with jalapenos and a jalapeno cheddar bun. IF you prefer a bit less heat their tamer All american cheeseburger is just as amazing. I was surprised that such a hole in the wall place has very exceptional bar food. Tue Apr 07 21:25:29 -0700 2009 4559608 152569 HelloTiffy 2 4577591 Riata Bar & Grill is one of my favorite nearby places. I'm starting to develop loyalties to simple straightforward places that serve better than average food at a decent price, decently priced beer/drinks, well-placed TV's for sportswatching, and isn't claustrophobic. I'll throw Wings-N-More at Howard and I-35 into that category, too. But back to Riata, I've had the burgers and I wouldn't say they're smackdown-worthy, as I recall, but better than some of the more mediocre bar burgers around town. I usually get their wings though, so I may need to do some research and report back. I do know that a burger + curly fries will run you about 6 or 7 bucks. And they have a $2 draft pint special all day every day. It's usually Miller Lite. Wed Apr 08 04:47:38 -0700 2009 4577323 55723 jwynne2000 1 4580534 My vote goes to: Shady Grove Not known as a burger joint so we never got it, but a couple of weeks ago my wife ordered the cheeseburger and - wow, i was very impressed. The burger was evenly cooked and had just enough crispiness to the outside of it. It was juicy but not drippingly so. I hate those huge drippy burgers that leave you a bottom bun half so soaked it mushes up into the burger and turns to bread mud. There was just enough stuff on top (lettuce, tomato, etc.) so that everything does not fall off when you lift it to your face. And to top it all off the bun was great too. It wasn't all spongey or too dry - it was grilled and had a crispy ring at the inside edges. We get it almost every time we go now, and every single time it's been the same - delicious!! Thu Apr 09 02:00:55 -0700 2009 4559608 267512 jreedtattooer 1 4587320 Phil's Ice House and The Tavern should be in your top five! Sat Apr 11 11:05:57 -0700 2009 4559608 36103 WSZsr 1 4588031 Best non-traditional burger is the Horseshoe Platter at Hyde Park Bar & Grill. They will do medium rare, and they get that right. The beef is good quality, a little lower in fat than most, no filler, and chargrilled perfectly. The only way to make that better is to smother it with cheddar sauce and pile Hyde Park's famous battered fries on top. I recommend adding bacon to make it even more decadent. I've had the traditional burger at Hyde Park and it was good, but I just wished it was a Horseshoe. Sat Apr 11 16:48:36 -0700 2009 4559608 106053 stephanieh 1 4598814 I'm partial to the Amarillo Burger at Casino El Camino. That and a cold longneck is one hell of a lunch. Wed Apr 15 13:14:53 -0700 2009 4559608 282989 pat_ramsey 2 4623984 I thought Casino el Camino was only open at night? Thu Apr 23 21:04:09 -0700 2009 4598814 10855 nosh 1 4599035 I recently had an awesome burger with smoked gouda and chicken fried bacon (The Rambler) at Shuggie's along with green chili cheese fries and a root beer float. Super big & super juicy. Perfect place to get a heart attack. I really enjoy Maiko's kobe sliders with yam fries. Sandy's is a local favorite, but I have always felt that their burgers lack something. I love Five Guys. Wed Apr 15 14:12:31 -0700 2009 4559608 282869 Food Dilettante 1 4605533 I'm very interested to hear what you all think is the best "fancy burger" in town. Anyone? Also, I must comment on the PTerry's phenomenon, because I recently got in heated discussion w/friends over this: Why, WHY do they put thousand island dressing as the default "sauce" on all their burgers? I suppose this is the attraction for some, but I find the combo of mayo/ketchup/sweet pickle relish that makes up this sauce to be utterly vile, and, every time I go there (*ahem, "coerced into going there...") I seem to forget that I have to say NO SAUCE. Inevitably, I bite into a burger drenched in peach colored slop, and must then return to the line to ask for a burger with mayo, mustard, and jalapenos, as god intended. Fri Apr 17 15:23:56 -0700 2009 4559608 93628 femmenikita 2 4606558 As god intended......I agree. One of the best I've had lately, and it wasn't repeated on a subsequent visit, was a cheddar jalapeno mustard plus mayo burger at Top Notch. I could taste the char-grilled goodness in every ethereal bite. Sat Apr 18 06:29:43 -0700 2009 4605533 17648 rudeboy 2 4618931 Thousand Island dressing is a fairly common sauce for burgers considering that McDonalds does it. Not that I'm suggesting that McDonalds burgers are amazing, quite the contrary. But it's no stranger to put thousand island as the sauce than any other. Personally, I love it and find the combination of mustard and mayonnaise strange. Love P. Terry's with everything - onions, pickles, jalapenos and all. Wed Apr 22 12:54:13 -0700 2009 4605533 171995 anna_banana 3 4619364 I hit the new P. Terry's on N. Lamar today. It's the second time I've done their drive-thru at that location and it was terrible. Over 15 minutes in line without an apology or explanation. The burger itself was overcooked. The cheese slices are too big for the burger, and half of the cheese stuck to the paper wrapper. I like thousand island, but there was so much glopped on the bun that it was a soggy, slimy mess that literally dissolved in my hands. I recall previous trips to the original location as being pretty good, but there's no way I'm going back now. Wed Apr 22 14:47:37 -0700 2009 4618931 24991 mkwng 2 4618984 I think that Houston's has a great "fancy burger". At $14, it's pretty pricey for me but oooh so good. The patty is fresh ground that morning and cooked to medium rare perfection (at least for me). The bun is fresh and soft enough but doesn't fall apart. The fries are hand cut too. I have only been eating meat for about 9 mos after a 15 (!) year hiatus and that burger sealed the deal for my dietary change. Wed Apr 22 13:04:25 -0700 2009 4605533 102275 tokyomonamour 3 4619715 I'll definitely second the Houston's burger for the fancy burger category. Wed Apr 22 16:38:27 -0700 2009 4618984 55723 jwynne2000 4 4620385 3rd. It's my favorite in Austin. They will do it medium rare - really! Wed Apr 22 21:13:09 -0700 2009 4619715 14268 Rene 5 4621507 4th. Love Houston's burger (and pretty much everything I have tried there). They cook over hardwood. Fresh fries. Yum! Thu Apr 23 08:48:03 -0700 2009 4620385 20438 cstrombe 6 4622969 You guys! I have been stuck here at work without a lunch break and you are making my mouth water. I always drive by Houston's on my way to Alamo and have considered popping in, but I've never actually eaten there, EVER. Must show this thread to friends/bf and convince someone to come with me despite the price tag. Thanks! Thu Apr 23 14:26:36 -0700 2009 4621507 93628 femmenikita 7 4623956 I'll meet you there! No, but really, if this is the style of burger you prefer, it's definitely worth the price. I only go about four times a year for the burger but once I know I'm going, I anticipate the experience and have never, in 25 years or so, been disappointed with the dining experience. I had a small glitch with the service once. I let the management know - only because he came by the table and asked and I had received such excellent service over the many years. I told them that I didn't want anything except for the server to know of the issue. They insisted on giving me a gift card even when I protested. This burger is like the splurge of a great, over priced steakhouse... when you just want to do it right and not compromise. If there is one chain restaurant in America that is consistently delicious, I think this is it. They also have very good salads, steaks, fish, soup, sides, etc. Thu Apr 23 20:43:37 -0700 2009 4622969 14268 Rene 8 4624716 I lucked out last night and my friends suggested meeting at Houston's. I was excited because I had been reading about their burger all day. And I will say it lived up to the hype. It was cooked exactly like I ordered it (medium) and was juicy. The bun was soft and delicious. I am definitely going back to try the Texas Burger (chili cheese burger) that they only serve on Saturday. The only thing I wish I could change is their fries. I do not care for skinny fries and these are the skinniest fries ever. Next time I will go for the sliced tomatoes. Yum. Fri Apr 24 08:08:16 -0700 2009 4623956 114080 missmitzi 2 4766683 In 'N out puts 1000 island on their burgers too...so does McDonalds (Big Mac). Not terribly uncommon. I can understand not liking it, though and if you ask to "hold the sauce", they should be able to comply! Fri Jun 12 09:34:38 -0700 2009 4605533 64155 Bababooey 1 4620425 I know we are supposed to be speaking Austin here, but let's just say for arguments sake we include San Marcos. By far, best burger in all the land for too many reasons to even list- THE TAP ROOM. If you can find it, you will never forget your way back! Wed Apr 22 21:25:00 -0700 2009 4559608 285367 notgonna0 1 4624979 The Waygu burger at Ennoteca. It's a special they run pretty often. It is absolutlely delicious. Fri Apr 24 09:26:23 -0700 2009 4559608 187738 FulltimeFoodie 1 4766904 1. Houstons 2. Casino 3. P Terrys 4. Hut's 5. Mike's 6. Sullivans's Haven't tried the burgers at the nicer establishments but I'm sure the Four Seasons does a decent burger. I can't imagine any of the Mexican places are really known for fabulous burgers- but I could be wrong. No reason to go to any fast-food joint in Austin when you can go to P Terrys or Five Guys. Fri Jun 12 10:25:37 -0700 2009 4559608 262921 lloyddaniels 1 4769305 I know this discussion is limited to Austin, BUT since the burger lovers have gathered I MUST tell you all about THE best burger I've ever had in dear ole Bastrop, at a little place called "Roadhouse" they are FANTABULOUS! The joint is right by the lake so if you wake up on the weekend and want a tiny road trip to hamburger heaven, check it out! http://www.kendrasroadhouse.com/rhmenu0.html Sat Jun 13 07:33:35 -0700 2009 4559608 1082594 hipy 2 4818704 I will second that. The buns that they serve are Sheila Partin buns, made in Houston. I love the jalepeno cheese buns. The buns are all sourdough buns. Makes the hamburger. Tue Jun 30 12:30:22 -0700 2009 4769305 282345 tuckspop 2 4917606 Does anyone know if Chris Madrid's is still open in S.A.? Tue Aug 04 16:07:56 -0700 2009 4769305 1099209 stansell 3 4917787 We were there a couple of months ago and they were packed. I can't imagine that they have closed. Give them a call. Tue Aug 04 17:15:28 -0700 2009 4917606 14268 Rene 1 4769744 I have to mention (again) Artz Rib House. They have a very good, thick but not too thick, *grilled* burger. I love burgers with real cheddar and jalapenos, and they got all that......no fries, though. You have to pick one of their sides. Sat Jun 13 11:30:52 -0700 2009 4559608 17648 rudeboy 1 4772669 Two more good ones that haven't yet been mentioned in this thread... Kahuna's Tiki Bar - they didn't offer, but when I asked if they could do medium rare, they were happy to oblige and they got it right. It needed a little salt, but the meat was good quality, hand formed patty, probably at least a third pound, medium thickness, griddled, good fat content, and juicy... served on a sweet bun that reminds me of King's Hawaiian rolls, lightly toasted but still soft. Opal Divine's - chargrilled, 1/2 pound, very good quality beef, cooked perfectly medium rare (they ask), great flavor, served on a too small bun (I requested wheat), the burger "overhang" was significant. Loved the burger... wished the bun were bigger. Sun Jun 14 17:58:46 -0700 2009 4559608 106053 stephanieh 2 4773074 stephanieh, the reason we keep you around is your ability to parse french fries.Two burger joint reviews without a mention of the potatoes you ate with them? Sun Jun 14 21:34:36 -0700 2009 4772669 16897 scrumptiouschef 3 4817902 Can't believe no one has mentioned the Scooter Burger at Ski Shores. Forget the fries, but the burger is in my view the best in town. A picture (attached) is the only way to do it justice. Also, I had an exceptional Kobe beef burger at Enoteca one time, but it was a special and I haven't seen it again. Tue Jun 30 08:48:28 -0700 2009 4773074 283306 Sidd Finch 3 4830150 scrumptious, you keep me around for my french fry savvy? I thought it was for my witty repartee. But, yeah, even as I was typing about the burgers, it just felt wrong not to discuss the fries. So, here's the "skinny"... Kahuna's - thin, not quite shoestring thin, and hand cut on the premises. Nicely seasoned, skin on, freshly fried (hot and glistening) and I enjoyed them quite a bit. Opal Divine's - these aren't the hand cut style I prefer, but they are pretty good. They have a sort of "coating", not necessarily battered (like Hyde Park's), and there's cracked black pepper in the coating, which I wish I could say I tasted. They need salt, but I enjoy them, much in the same way as Hyde Park's, but they don't replace a good hand cut fry. Sat Jul 04 19:00:20 -0700 2009 4773074 106053 stephanieh 1 4831342 I've mentioned this before, but the best burger I've found, by far, in Austin is the Big Kahuna burger at Kona Grill at the Domain. 12 oz, I order it medium rare and it's pink and juicy inside and charred on the outside. To die for. Of the basic burger places, P. Terry's is no better than McDonalds, 5 Guys is fair, Mooyah is good, Mighty Fine overcooks it more than half the time, no matter how much I plead. Opening tomorrow by the north Costo is Terra burger. Will try them soon. Sun Jul 05 14:59:16 -0700 2009 4559608 279003 NJtoTX 1 4831988 When the rest of the menu reads like naughty, naughty food porn, it's so easy to overlook the modest Cheeseburger at Eastside Cafe. But like the mythical librarian who only removes her glasses and shakes out her hair when behind closed doors, Eastside's Cheeseburger is an unexpected delight. It's a thick patty of a quality grind, probably a half inch thick. Sporting a nice set of char marks, it's topped in it's final moments on the grill with a grated sharp cheddar. The whole wheat bun is recommended - it adds a dimension to the burger that seems missing from the white bread choice. Being a garden cafe, Eastside assures that the simple lettuce, tomato, purple onion and pickle are fresh, flavorful, and crisp - quality additions to the whole. As described so far, this burger would more than hold it own against the others mentioned here. It rises to the top tier of the pack with the addition of their bold garlic mayo. Delicious! For variety, you can accompany this burger with any of Eastside's side dishes - a cup of homemade soup, produce fresh from the onsite organic garden - whatever strikes your fancy. But as long as I'm getting a burger, I usually go for the nice thick homefries. Instead of ketchup, ask for a ramikin of feta cheese dressing and dunk those babies. Eastside Cafe is my burger smackdown choice. Sun Jul 05 19:44:17 -0700 2009 4559608 95821 Alan Sudo 2 4832113 Sudo Nice to have you back after a few months. Where have you been getting your tacos lately? Sun Jul 05 20:51:08 -0700 2009 4831988 16897 scrumptiouschef 3 4833873 Hi Scrumptious, You know for a while there, I just settled into a taco routine - Alanya's on Manor. Now that the owners have sold it to Taco-Mex, it looks like I'll be on the hunt again. I'll try to keep y'all informed if I find anything worth reporting. Mon Jul 06 12:36:56 -0700 2009 4832113 95821 Alan Sudo 1 4837361 Anyone had Hill's Cafe's burgers? The best Jerry!!! Also, Crown & Anchor gets an honorable mention if not for the burger, which is great, but the fries are out of this world! Tue Jul 07 14:31:37 -0700 2009 4559608 1091381 rkaylor 2 4849955 Hill's Cafe burgers are quite good; especially the bun, which everybody seems to like. Or go to the Tavern and get the same burger. Same owners, or at least used to be. Sat Jul 11 17:48:45 -0700 2009 4837361 100581 thebodytx 1 4837760 I posted this in a previous message but think this is a more appropriate location... Seeking the "holy grail" of burgers in Austin is a most noble quest indeed but It seems to me the perfect burger is very subjective. I don't often suggest a burger joint to anyone as invariably it will not live up to that person's expectation in one way or another. Unless of course you are talking about In & Out which is truly at the top of every burger lovers bucket list. Unfortunately not everyone has the chance to partake in such a dining experience but most recently I have been frequenting a local joint that does come very close. No it's not P Terry, Fran's, Dan's, Top Notch, Mighty Fine, or any of the usual suspects. It’s the "Little Red Wagon" in Round Rock. Discovered or should I say rediscovered a few weeks ago. I have made it a habit of grabbing one of their "Specials" once a week which is a double cheese with fries and drink for $5.63. Get 2 of them and you already have Mighty Fine kicked in the pants and change to spare. And the "dive" factor is awesome! Like I said earlier I don’t like to make any suggestions so I certainly hope no one makes the trip out Hwy 79 to try this gem out as I wouldn’t want to disappoint the other “cardiologist’s dreams” out there. Tue Jul 07 17:03:58 -0700 2009 4559608 1091435 TXCarnivore 2 4838865 My vote for best burger is the Tavern, love the buns! Wed Jul 08 06:05:15 -0700 2009 4837760 168131 MGucci 1 4847465 Had an Amarillo burger and chili cheese fries at Casino El Camino recently. Damn good. Damn, damn good. Thick, juicy well seasoned patty and liberal toppings. Hella long wait, though. Good thing they have cold beer! Fri Jul 10 14:34:39 -0700 2009 4559608 88548 Kaya_n_Austin 2 4919105 I'll second that. I've only had 2 of these, but nboth times were great. It was agood thing it was along walk back to the car. Talk about a gut bomb. Wed Aug 05 07:29:26 -0700 2009 4847465 60603 TroyTempest 1 4851582 Hillberts and Frans, Mighty Fine are the best. Sun Jul 12 13:56:57 -0700 2009 4559608 1090364 Sarah Franklin 1 4903940 Well, I guess it's settled. According to Texas Monthly magazine the best burger in Austin is at Counter Cafe. And it's also #2 in all of Texas. Thu Jul 30 12:20:42 -0700 2009 4559608 100581 thebodytx 2 4904207 Has anybody actually had the burger at Counter Cafe? How is it. I see that it is 4th on CarterBs list (above), but otherwise, I've never heard any mention of it. Thu Jul 30 13:29:13 -0700 2009 4903940 17648 rudeboy 3 4908451 I had it two month ago, can't give much details as all I remember is that both I and the bf were disappointed, plain boring. Sat Aug 01 05:38:35 -0700 2009 4904207 174993 moosy 3 4919152 i went a couple weeks ago. toppings were fresh. meat was plain. and it's $9. i wouldn't put it at the top of a burger list. but my gf was very pleased with her veggie sandwich Wed Aug 05 07:48:53 -0700 2009 4904207 100222 innominate 3 5117109 I've had it a couple of times now and it just doesn't do anything for me. Like Moosy says, it's just boring. I tried Gabbi's on Burnett this weekend, and I have to say it's now my second favorite burger in Austin. It's juicy, flavorful, and absolutely ginormous at 1/2 lb. The bun is a sweet potato-type bun as well, one of my favorites! Tue Oct 20 09:16:59 -0700 2009 4904207 81120 foodiegal71 4 5117126 I'll have to give it another try. The one and only time I tried Gabbi's the burger was bland, dripping with grease, and just generally not very good. The comments from others that day (they were all asked how the meal was as they left) only served to reenforce that view. Tue Oct 20 09:21:06 -0700 2009 5117109 223330 danny_w 5 5117128 Interesting. My understanding is that they changed the burger, but I'm not sure when. From the reviews on another site, it seems it might have been in the past couple of months? It might be worth another try if it's been a while for you. But if it was recently, then maybe not :) Tue Oct 20 09:22:37 -0700 2009 5117126 81120 foodiegal71 6 5117224 Yes, it was quite some time ago that I tried it, so I'll give it another shot. I don't remember it being 1/2 pounder then either. What I do remember is asking the guy at the checkout if the onion rings were good and he said something like "they're ok, but I recommend the fries"; I ordered the fries but to me they were inedible. I hope they have changed more than just the burger. Tue Oct 20 09:48:01 -0700 2009 5117128 223330 danny_w 7 5117497 I went with a friend today for lunch. Yes they have upped all of the hamburgers to 1/2lb, and the burger itself was pretty good (I had the bacon cheeseburger, he had the regular cheeseburger) although the bacon on mine was undercooked, but the extras (fries and rings) were as bad as I remembered. I doubt I will go back again. Tue Oct 20 11:10:01 -0700 2009 5117224 223330 danny_w 2 4909462 The best burger in my opinion is the 78704 burger served at Phil's Icehouse on Burnet. Unbelieveable. Yes the bun is great but I've had that bun at other places. The burger as a whole composition is perfect. Sat Aug 01 15:40:19 -0700 2009 4903940 283995 beekay 2 4917601 Texas Monthly also recommended some mediocre BBQ joints as among the best in the state, which, to me, is pretty bad. Snows, which they had as #1 was pretty awesome, but Ruby's on the drag beats the pants off the rest of their choices. You know, FYI... Tue Aug 04 16:05:30 -0700 2009 4903940 1099209 stansell 1 4917590 If you've recently had one too many drippy, greasy burgers, Kerby serves up a nice, neat, bistro burger with tasty options for dressing and sides. Tue Aug 04 16:02:18 -0700 2009 4559608 1099209 stansell 2 4924619 I think I read through all of the post's... Doesn't ANYONE go to Sandy's? I think the Double Meat and Cheese is the PERFECT greasy cheeseburger! Thu Aug 06 19:18:22 -0700 2009 4917590 1096728 FoodEquipmentGuy 3 4926235 A couple of weeks ago, I went for the first time in over ten years. I thought that it was great - the only problem is that they put american on the thing instead of cheddar. Not even sure that they have cheddar, although they said they did when I asked. The fries were most excellent...the whole trip was a perfect compliment to swimming at Deep Eddy. Fri Aug 07 10:45:33 -0700 2009 4924619 17648 rudeboy 1 4927264 I just had the Sirloin Burger at Dog Almighty on south Lamar and it was great. It's called the Angus burger on their online menu and is "1/3 lb. flame broiled with mustard, mayo, & all the veggies" on a griddled bun. With an iced tea and an order of fries it was $8.38 but I'll take it over P. Terry's or Five Guys. The lettuce & tomato seemed fresh, the burger was done to a medium and I had a slice of American cheese on top of it. Their fries are really good but ask for them well-done. Fri Aug 07 16:54:05 -0700 2009 4559608 166436 chascates 1 4958279 Ya'll might laugh, but one of my favorite burgers in Austin is the Short Stop at William Cannon and Manchaca. It is the last Short Shop in south Austin. I can't speak for the Short Stops in North Austin. Different owners. Short Stop was the original idea of one of the great fast food restaurant owners in Austin, Mr. Ralph Moreland. He recently passed. He owned the Holiday Houses, 2J's, and had the first KFC franchise in Austin. If you remember The Holiday House or 2J's, the man knew how to make a burger. Well the burger at the Short Stop at William Cannon and Manchaca is just a 1/4 pounder. It just has a great taste and the fries are great. Plus the prices are reasonable. Give it a try before you smack it down. Wed Aug 19 04:03:48 -0700 2009 4559608 282345 tuckspop 2 4965231 I haven't been to that Short Stop, but the one on 183 and Duval (the North Duval, not the Duval in Central Austin, because in Austin we just can't figure out how to name streets, some have many names, other times we like a street name so much we use it over again) is my favorite drive-thru burger. The fries are always right out of the oil it seems, too. Fri Aug 21 08:00:30 -0700 2009 4958279 60603 TroyTempest 3 4965489 That one is right near my office. If I am looking for a good, cheap lunch Short Stop often gets my business. Fri Aug 21 09:13:38 -0700 2009 4965231 223330 danny_w 3 4965562 I like the onion chili cheeseburger at the short stop. It is reminiscent of the chili burger of my youth from the A & W rootbeer stand in Biloxi. Fri Aug 21 09:34:16 -0700 2009 4965231 96108 sighmesigh 1 4964152 EZ's on North Lamar has awesome hamburgers and great made to order shakes Thu Aug 20 18:25:25 -0700 2009 4559608 1103297 AustinJacey 2 4964817 EZ's is the former location of my favorite hamburger joint, 2J's. Just can't eat there because of the memories. Fri Aug 21 05:23:45 -0700 2009 4964152 282345 tuckspop 3 4965083 Me too! Fri Aug 21 07:08:39 -0700 2009 4964817 223330 danny_w 2 4965747 There is something about EZ's burgers that just turns me off. Every time I have been, there has been too much char on the patty, which gives it an off taste to me. This makes me sad, because I love bean burgers, and EZ's is one of the few places in town that makes one, although I prefer refried pinto beans over black.. Fri Aug 21 10:25:51 -0700 2009 4964152 71407 Homero 3 5063671 Burger's are my passion and yes I have to agree with all of the above. Fran's, Dan's, Sandy's, original Burger Tex, Dirty's and Mighty fine. These are all very good. BUT..I have to break the rules and talk of 2 new burgers places I have found out of Austin. Homero you speak of the bean burger, lol. I used to live in SA and yes they are hard to find in Austin. In Georgetown along 35 right next to a place called Hog Alley there is a new bar/restaurant called Hardtails. They have only been open 3 weeks and the burgers are so good. .My favorite is the tejas burger. it comes with fritos, refried beans, cheddar cheese and jalepenons. All of this plus a huge burger and its serverd on the sweet buns similiar to hawaiin buns. The burger is huge, I have never been able to eat more then half. I would put this in my top 2, they are that good! The meat itself taste like it could have come out of my moms cast iron skillet. People from all over are going just for the burgers. check it out. For Number 2 I have to tell you about this one because its still so fresh on my mind. There is a place in Manor called Ghost Town. its only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday. I went there saturday night and hands down had the best burger I have ever had in my life. Yes it was griddled and it was at least half a pound. The burger was cooked to a perfect medium rare and had to of been a half pound. The bun was greasy and the toppings were sooo fresh. It had leafy lettuce, which i normally don't prefer but was great. The tomatoes were thick and had amazing flavor. The burger was a perfect mixture of well seasoned meat, fresh veggies and greasyness. The french fries were a perfect crispy on the outside and super soft on the inside. I live in Georgetown and I would drive to manor weekly just to eat this again. It's so good. Mon Sep 28 08:05:05 -0700 2009 4965747 291114 justagirl34 4 5064077 Thanks for the info. I am definitely going to go check out that Tejas Burger. Sounds exactly like what I remember. I am also close to Manor, so I will check out Ghost Town. Website definitely intrigues me. http://www.ghosttownaustin.com/ Do they only do burgers, or do they have other stuff on their menu? Mon Sep 28 10:01:06 -0700 2009 5063671 71407 Homero 1 5068420 Certainly not in the fancy burger category, but a contender in the Hillberts/Fran's zone is a joint I just visited last week for the first time: Burger House, 4211 Spicewood Springs. Also right near there, is Wally's, which is decent. Tue Sep 29 20:51:54 -0700 2009 4559608 1112986 Rice Checks 2 5153068 Don't miss the special greek spices on the french fries at Burger House. I've been eating at the ones on Hillcrest and Mockingbird in Dallas for years and am so glad we have one in Austin now. Tue Nov 03 14:06:39 -0800 2009 5068420 1121459 monicacrowley 3 5154744 I think those "special greek spices" = Lawry's Seasoning Salt. Wed Nov 04 07:41:48 -0800 2009 5153068 20438 cstrombe 4 5156260 It tastes very drifferent from Lawry's Seasoning Salt Wed Nov 04 14:40:42 -0800 2009 5154744 17506 Chefdavis 1 5074861 B.B. Rover's This place makes a pretty good burger that shouldn't be overlooked, especially if you are in that part of town, and want to pair it with a good beer. Today, I had Live Oak Oaktoberfest, which was pretty tasty. Anyway, I went in today, I wanted to go somewhere where i could sit outside and enjoy the fall weather. Fish and chips was today's special, (i haven't had it there before) but was told that it would be 1/2 an hour before it was ready. So i went for the burger. The cheeseburger is 6.29 and has a choice of about 4 cheeses, one being blue cheese. I'd eat pretty much anything with blue cheese on it, so it was a no-brainer. Anyway the bun is pretty big, but not too big,fresh, and full of sesame seeds, top and bottom. I mean a lot of sesame seeds. You could actually taste them. The patty was well seasoned. It was hard to tell with all the blue cheese, so i took a piece off to taste it. The blue cheese kind of dominated, but i didn't mind. The patty is medium thickness, about half as thick as Casino El Camino, but thicker than Dan's or Fran's. It looked to be about medium well. It had what looked to be green leaf lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle. Anything other than iceberg is a plus for me. It comes with chips. Fries or rings are extra. I decided not to get the fries because i didn't want to eat too much. Chips tasted like generic Ruffles. Every time I've been the service has been very good, and today was no exception. Fri Oct 02 11:23:37 -0700 2009 4559608 60603 TroyTempest 2 5094468 Try the Sausage Burger at B. B. Rover's sometime; half hamburger, half sausage, and totally good. Sat Oct 10 22:57:04 -0700 2009 5074861 100581 thebodytx 1 5093460 There are lots of great burger places closer to us, but Top Notch is really the best. I love that charcoal grilled flavor and the fact that you can actually watch them make the burger. I wasn't so impressed with the fried chicken, but my hubby liked it. I also love Hill-Bert's and Waterloo Icehouse for thin burgers. Galaxy Cafe is awesome, and Burger-Tex on Airport has a great burger with an incredible homemade bun. Sat Oct 10 10:36:21 -0700 2009 4559608 25448 Rosedale_foodie 1 5094871 I have to throw in a post for Hat Creek Burger Co. I've been often enough now to state that this is a solid burger, well peppered/seasoned and tasty. The food is all made to order, no pre-cooking burger patties & warming them up again, so expect a wait. It'll be just long enough for you to get extra hungry from the delicious cooking odors. The fries are hand cut to order, never frozen. You can taste the difference--they're a lot like the ones my mother made when I was growing up. You know, when you've done all your chores, brought home a terrific report card, washed the car and offered to wash the dog? Because she sure didn't make homemade fries often. But I digress. I've eaten only one subpar burger at Hat Creek in the last year. It's only sin was the cook forgot to season it. Otherwise it was still a decently sized patty, juicy made of all natural angus beef and just enough fresh toppings. In addition to lettuce, tomato, onion and pickle you can get grilled onions & jalapenos for free. Bacon and mushrooms are a small extra charge. Your choice of white or wheat bun. I've attached photos of the burger & fries for your food porn pleasure. Sun Oct 11 08:37:34 -0700 2009 4559608 88548 Kaya_n_Austin 2 5096764 I have been waiting and waiting for Hat Creek to open on Burnet so I could finally try these guys. Anyone know the scoobie on when they'll open? Mon Oct 12 08:06:08 -0700 2009 5094871 12615 amysuehere 3 5114453 The last I heard they were anyday. I would espect them open by November 1st at the latest. Mon Oct 19 10:06:02 -0700 2009 5096764 79200 El General 4 5114482 Official opening today Mon Oct 19 10:15:41 -0700 2009 5114453 12615 amysuehere 1 5120514 I think that the Roaring Fork Big Ass burger is one of the best I have ever had. At happy hour you get it for about 8 bucks. Wed Oct 21 13:06:02 -0700 2009 4559608 270386 ezrailson 1 5153061 To my great surprise, my favorite Austin burger is at Romeo's on Barton Springs. They only serve it at lunch, but it's reasonable priced and stands up to the great lunchtime burger at Trio and the fabulous Winkbar burger. Romeo's also has better than expected veggie and fish burgers too. Tue Nov 03 14:05:25 -0800 2009 4559608 1121459 monicacrowley 1 5156342 Against my better judgement, I stopped at Mighty Fine last night since I had been running errands in that shopping center. I ordered my standard burger (bacon cheeseburger with ketchup only), fries, and an iced tea. $11.34 for what's maybe $7-$8 at Whataburger. The fries are excellent, as long as you eat them hot. In fact, they were so good as to not need ketchup. Once they cool off (which is quickly), they lose most of their luster and are surprisingly reminiscient of the Durkee shoestring potatoes out of the can. The burger was incredibly, remarkably pedestrian. The bun was standard. The meat itself was barely seasoned and had a different, almost shredded texture. Cheese had the flavor of a Kraft Single. And the bacon was disappointing. Neither crip nor flavorful. If it had been from a fast food joint, I wouldn't mind going back. But for over $10 for a burger, fries, and drink, it had best be remarkable. Sadly, this was average at best. Mighty Fine is mighty average. Great marketing, though.... What's with the current trend of new burger places anyways....? Mighty Fine, P. Terry's, Hat Creek, etc.... All are somewhat interchangable and none approach the gold standard that is, and will likely remain, Mike's Pub. Wed Nov 04 15:07:37 -0800 2009 4559608 87867 exlnghrn