Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Five Guys, Five Stars



Patty Rating: 5/5

With all of the buzz surrounding President Obama's Five Guys visit, I have been longing to try one of their burgers. But let me clarify-- it was not because the leader of our country deemed the burger so good, but rather because of the bag that he held in his hands. That bag, which was drenched in greasy goodness, was an excellent sign of gauging just how much love a burger really has to give.

So finding myself across the street from the West Village location recently after a four hour happy hour session was needless to say...a sign.

The sweet aroma of beef and grilled onions made its way to my nose as soon as we walked (stumbled) in. The cashier, a man named Ray, waited to take my order. "Are you sure you just want a plain cheeseburger? I can give you all the toppings...for free." Boyyyyy, you better stop I thought...before gently replying yes.

Curiosity and vodka prompted me to ask if I could go behind the counter, into the kitchen, to watch the bugers being made. See photo above for the facial expression Ray gave me in response. (Ray don't play).

But neither did that burger. Never has a cab ride been so thrilling as it was with a greasy bag of fries in my lap, and a burger in my hand. This was easily one of the best burgers I've had in the city, and to say it was also under ten bucks, is definitely an accomplishment around these parts. Perfectly seasoned meat, grilled onions... POW! An explosion in my mouth. Five Guys is definitely worth a trip, if you are not afraid to get a little greasy.

Five Guys Famous Burgers
296 Bleecker St
(212) 367-9200
Price: $8

Two Burgers That Made My Heart Flutter

Elephant and Castles' "Elephant Burger"

A joyous burger topped with a mound of curried sour cream, crisp bacon strips, melted cheddar, raw scallions, and tomato betwinxt an awesomely toasted bun.

Shake Shack's "Double Stack" Burger

A cheese filled portebello mushroom with a ground beef burger patty.