Chuck's Burger Bar - It's Hammer Time!

Chuck's first came to my attention through previous Tour guest Claes Oldenburger, who went to Chuck's a few weeks earlier. Although burger joints are a dime a dozen these days, this one had a snazzy logo and the never before seen "Guilty Pleasure" burger, made from ground bacon. Yep, I said it. Chuck's small and cozy location is located on the nouveau hipster Locke St. South. It's pretty loud and crowded, or as I say "crouded", but the atmosphere is great. All the staff were super friendly and seemed to actually enjoy their work. I can't say enough good things about this great bunch. The menu is satisfying and intriguing, with 9 kinds of poutine, onion rings, salads, and several unusual burger options, such as bison and venison. We did not have the ground bacon burger. I know, as a burger blogger, I should have, but I just couldn't. I've heard of this phenomenon also existing in Victoria, BC, but I have yet to know anyone who's tried it. Instead, we opted for the chips and curry poutine (tasty fries, great sauce)and the panko onion rings which did not disappoint. It's not easy to find a good onion ring; these were hot and crispy, yet you could still taste the sweet juicy onion. When ordering, we were asked how we would like the burgers done, which was unusual and I wish I'd said "rare" to see if that was available.

Claes had the basic premium burger, with mustard, ketchup, relish and a slice of pineapple. He thoroughly enjoyed the pineapple addition, but he didn't love the texture of the meat. I had the Smokey Blue Haze and Bacon. The first bite was wonderousful. The bacon was super crispy and the blue cheese nice and stinky. I had no issue with the texture of the meat, however it was a bit dense in the middle. I prefer my burgers to be a patty, and not a 'ball' in the middle. But it was a good burger. I could have used a bit more zing to the meat, but this is my standard complaint. The bun was also soft and fresh, and the right size for the patty. To be sure, I thoroughly enjoyed our tour in Hamilton. The staff were knowledgeable and helpful. We spoke with the manager and had a good discussion on top burgers (yeah that's right, Burgers Priest! You're over-rated!). The atmosphere is hip and chill. Though seating is limited, we sat at the bar and made conversation with the fun-filled staff. I've come to realize in the war of the burgers, these days with the quality of meat out there, it's hard to make a 'bad' burger; everything else, like the way it's cooked, the patty size and shape, the bun, toppings, and atmosphere, go a long way to make a successful Tour. Best burger ever? Probably not. One of the best places to go? Absolutely. I'd give them an overall 8/10 and a definite GO THERE.

Walk or Stomp over to Burger Stomper

The burger crew is making up for lost time and hitting as many joints as possible! Last night we hit the recently opened Burger Stomper is located just west of Chester Station on the Danforth. In a mouthful: big, messy, tasty and savoury. Overall an 8. We were fortunate enough to have Triple Bypass along for the tour. The burgers are huge and messy. Check out the website for details. The menu isn't extensive but totally satisfying. Amongst the 5 tour-ees, we were able to try the Classic with cheese, Swiss Mushroom Melt, Cheese Please, Sweet Onion D and the Better tha nthe other guy. The 6 oz patty was thick and meaty, and utterly satisfying. Burgermeister had the Cheese Please, which features a wonderful slab of cheese, culminating in a perfect 'skirt' of grilled cheese around the outside of the burger. Fantastic! He declared it a good burger, and a nice variation on the cheeseburger.

Hamburglar went for the Better Than the Other Guy, which is your basic cheese and bacon burger. For once he did not ooh and ah and blow his stack over the burgery goodness. In fact, he only gave it an 8. Good but not amazing, and a bit dry. Triple B had the swiss mushroom melt and gave it a 9.5, being a huge mushroom fan. He claims the shrooms were great, the sauce and cheese was so very very good.

I devoured my Sweet Onion D. The onion to meat ratio was a bit off and I was swimming in sweet sticky oniony goodness by the end of it. However, it was tasty and done to juicy perfection. I'm not sure I'd have it again as the meat was a bit overpowered. Smallfry ordered the Classic with cheese, natch. Although he said it was excellent and scored it a 9, he insisted that the meat was almost too fresh, and, conversely to Hamburglar, had a 'bloody' taste too it. However, Smallfry adored the fries. They're the shoestring style and amongst the accolades, he said they were "beautiful, perfectly salted, heaven in my mouth", and reminiscent of frites. In contrast, Hamburglar said he preferred thick beefy fries, but honestly there's no pleasing him.

The remains of the day. The sweet potato fries were also very good - made fresh, and we all gave kudos to the tangy dipping sauce. The onion rings only scored a 5 overall, due to thick greasy batter, similar to fish and chip batter. It's difficult to get a good onion ring. The bun selection is non-existent except for a gluten-free option. It was a plain, small white bun, like Burgerpriest uses (and which I find similar to a Wonderbread bun). There was way too much meat and topping for this wee bun to handle. But the other special item is the milk shake; classic vanilla, decadent chocolate, cookies & cream or Nutella chocolate peanut butter heaven. They were out of the basic chocolate, but the C&C got a 9 from Hamburglar and I, and the Nutella-PBH evoked strong emotions from Triple B, stating that he is now addicted and would "kill" to just live on this shake for some time. Strong words. Burgermeister was a little less impressed but only slightly, giving it an 8. Some other bits to keep in mind, this place is new. The debit machine was down when we went, sending some of the Crew scrambling for cash. Seating is extremely limited, probably for less than 30 people. Order at the counter and they bring it to you, like the old Craft Burger did. Burgers are made to order so it's a bit of a wait. I suggest calling in or taking it to go. All in all the experience was a good one. Was it burger-awesome? No. Nothing can compare to Burgers on the Edge in Hawaii, and Toronto's Burger Cellar still does a dance of heavenly perfection in your mouth, while this merely satisfied nicely. However, it's a good addition to the Danforth eateries and the menu had some nice options. They also have a daily 'surprise' option that promises to be delicious. I would return to try this.

Keep on beefin'....

Burgers on the Edge Scores a "Hang 10" in Hawaii

Pickles

First I'd like to apologize for my long absence from the burger blogging world. Don't worry, I haven't turned vegan or anything like that. I've been eating them; just haven't been writing about it! Recently I vacationed in Hawaii and discovered that it's not all just pineapples and Spam out there. We had one of the best burger experiences of the tour thus far. In a mouthful: delectable; mouthwatering; awesome. Burgers on the Edge has possibly the coolest logo yet (the 'e' is a burger!) and the goods to back it up. Oh sure, being in Hawaii made it that much better, especially when you can sit outside to enjoy your meal. But the Burger Crew has had enough burgers to know the real deal. Besides, we also ate at Tiki Burger and although tasty, it wasn't worth a blogging. I can tell you immediately that for me, the big stand-out was having Baconnaise as a topping. This is nirvana in a jar and seldom seen. Find it. Spread it. Eat it. Although the premises was small, the menu was extensive with eight "Edge Favourites" plus the 'classic'. You can also invent your own, which I did, because I had a certain hankerin'. My sirloin (choice of Kobe as well) burger had guacamole, crispy onions, pepperjack cheese and (wait for it) baconnaise. Oh yes, I said it. I've had this delectable sauce before, but never have I seen in offered in a burger joint. All I can say is awe-inspiring. Possibly the best burger ever. Fresh fluffy bun, juicy flame-broiled beef, fantastic toppings...Thank you Hawaii. Everything was fresh and exploding with flavour.

We were lucky enough to have Frau Burgerfresser along for the tour and she went for the healthy sounding Malibu. Check out the menu photo for the toppings. The Thousand Islands dressing was a nice addition to the sauces and not something you often see here. Burgermeister had the Antidote and the Hamburglar indulged in the King Arthur. Naturally, always reliable Small Fry went for the classic. Everyone scored their burgers a minimum of 9. Nothing is ever perfect in burgerland and sadly the fries were lacking. I found them edible but Small Fry gave them a "5", and he is our fry guy. I also always enjoy it when a burger place offers shakes. It just seems right. The Edge also offered The Parisienne, a $16.98 kobe bohemoth featuring foie gras, carmelized apples, a red wine reduction sauce and sauteed onions. A specialty burger like this would run you about $50 in Toronto. These burgers were massive and fairly priced. Overall, we bestowed solid 9s across the board on Burgers on the Edge. In fact, after I sadly left for home, the remaining Burger Crew Members brazenly returned to the Edge and indulged again. Not a lot of loyalty amongst the burger eaters. Et tu, Beefy? My only regret is that Burger on the Edge is in Hawaii, and I feel that I am merely teasing you, loyal readers, with something that you may never be able to experience.

The Beef Goes On...

Happy LaBoURGER Day at Goddard's Flippin' Burgers!

Ah yes, La-bourger Day, when all Canadians get a day off to eat burgers. Burgermeister and I found ourselves in Bancroft for the long weekend and just had to take advantage of a mini-tour. With the demise of Kirby Burger, Ace Submarine and some negative experiences at other stops, we were excited to see a classic purveyor of beef on our trip north. So while Hamburglar and Small Fry were sunning themselves on Toronto Island's nudie beach, we were doing our beef-eating duty for the good of humanity.

Goddard's Flippin' Burgers used to be a small roadside stand with take-out only. They now have a new Dine-in section with plenty of parking. Conveniently located on the main strip at 181 Hastings St. North, we were lured in by the aroma of flame grilled beef. I have to say, for a small place, the burger selection was plentiful. Besides the basic 100% beef burgers, with cheese, classic 'banquet' style, and other favourites (hot dogs, sausages, bacon cheese dog, peameal on a bun), the menu features 7 oz International Burgers for $7.99 each. For $11.99 you can make it a FLIPPIN' FEAST with a small order of fries and a canned pop. See the menu pic for options!

Burgermeister had the Mexican burger, in Extra Hot! style. Definitely delicious, and with a real bite, he noted that the heat was not evenly distributed. There were pockets of 'extreme' but by the end of the burger, it was all a spicy mouth-watering fiesta. As usual, the Meister had his 'bun issues'; not hot enough, no options. However, the buns were fresh and soft, and sunk into the burger nicely. BM gave his burger a solid 8. As noted, when you start with good quality, fresh ingredients, and cook them on a flamin' hot grill, you can't go wrong. All the truffles and fois gras in the world can't help you if you don't start with good beef.

I went for the American Burger...the Yankee Doodle Dandy! I also rated my burger an 8 because I thoroughly enjoyed the taste of the beef. Nicely seasoned, done to perfection, juicy goodness. My one issue was the sauteed onions. They needed to be cooked longer; sauteed they were not. Keep them brewing. The blue cheese was lovely (though I'd like a bit more next time).

We shared a side of poutine and rated it a 7. The fries were very good but the cheese and gravy were average. The gravy was just your basic canned or bottled, and it was satisfactory but nothing special. The fries were fresh and delicious and next time I'd get them straight up.

We met Nadia the owner (pictured). She was lovely and pleasant, and just as happy as she looks in her photo. She told us all about the place, and her connection to the area. She knew the customers and was sure to introduce the other servers to the diners. Goddard's is normally closed on Mondays but stays open for the long weekends. Regulars should be aware that they close down for January, so get your fix in before then!

Apparently they have funnel cakes and we saw some beautiful cupcakes in the case. I wish I'd gone for that too.

I am dying to go back to try the West Indian Burger or the Jamaican. I wish Bancroft were a lot closer.

For a road burger, this place is an 8. Excellent quality, juicy and satisfying, with that small town hospitality that you always hear about, this place is a jewel in the mineral capital of Canada.


No website available but be sure to 'like' them on Facebook!

Woody's Burgers. We take the Etobicoke challenge!

It was a windy post-Fan-Expo day in Etobicoke. We were happy to see the return of Triple Bypass at our table, particularly since Small Fry was noticeably absent. On that subject, I want to wish Small Fry well, after his collapse due to exhaustion. On behalf of the Burger Tour crew I would like to wish him a speedy recovery, and let him know we do not believe the rumours and news reports speculating on a candy floss problem or fizz candy overdose. Your chair is waiting at our next greasy table, Small Fry!
I had heard a lot of good things about Woody's from a number of people. I felt it was time to get out of the snobbery and hob-nobbery of Toronto's fancy burgers and get back to basics! Woody's is a burger joint located on Lakeshore Blvd. near Brown's Line. They are known for their burgers and pulled pork sandwiches done on wood burning grills, and you can smell the smokey goodness when you walk through the door. A small place with a generous patio, they also provide pick up and delivery for over 15 people, as well as "grill your own" supplies. The selection is hardy, with burgers ranging from basic to specialty. The one that caught my eye had the cheese infused right in the meat. Wow! They also feature a daily burger, salad, and drink special. Yes, they are licensed! As well, they have rootbeer on draught from a local supplier.


Triple Bypass went for the Alpine Burger and rated it a 9. The beef was excellent, with swiss cheese, smoked bacon, sauteed mushroom and onion and dijon mustard. He sided with 50/50 fries of regular and sweet potato, freshly made. Trip-B rated nothing lower than an 8, and that was the root beer, which was not to everyone's liking. Trip-B found it a little strong, with a bite, but really good. And I concur.

Hamburglar was a bit testy on this tour and next time I suggest he stick to alcoholic beer as his beverage choice. He went for the Four Cheese Stuffed cheeseburger (blue or his choice of cheddar), parmesan,feta, cheddar and roast garlic mayo. All the other toppings were fresh and juicy, and he enjoyed the root beer. As usual, he scored this burger a 9. I'm not sure what needs to be done to rate anything lower in his book.

Herr Burgermeister went for the well-known Boom. This bohemoth beef burger with pulled pork, grilled jalapenos, smoked gouda, fried onions, chipotle mayo and smoked ketchup rated an 8; a solid score for the Meister to give out, though he only gave an overall of 7. He did comment that the bun was cold, however fresh. He also prefers some bun options, such as whole wheat or flat bread. I guess someone's watching his weight.

Always the adventurer, Pickles here had the Burger of the Day, which was the Ukrainian and featured pickled beets, kolbassa, saurkraut and sour cream. A strange combo for sure, but definitely delicious. Next time I would add some cheese to the mix, but absolutely no complaints about the burger. And I liked the fries and rootbeer too. I rate this an overall 7.5.

Woody's is a basic diner style place with fresh, quality ingredients and cheery staff. You order at the counter, they give you a buzzer, and when it's ready, the buzzer goes off. As everything is freshly done, it does take a bit of time, but it's worth the wait. The inside is clean, but gets a bit smokey with the cooking. The patio is nice and big, and there were some cute guys at the next table. They could keep up on table cleanliness a bit, but the woman from the counter came out later and gathered our empties, and chatted with us about the rootbeer and the cooking process.
The sides available are: Woody’s Fries, Sweet Potato Fries, 50/50 (Regular &
Sweet Fries), Coleslaw, Caesar Salad, Feature Salad or Green Salad. Also, you custom dress your burger with whatever toppings you want.

The pricing was average with burgers ranging from $6 to $8. For another $3.50 you can add a combo of a canned pop and small side. Sure it's a bit pricier than fast food, but it's definitely not in the range of some of the urban hotspots we've been hitting lately. No truffles here!

We all agreed we'd like to go back and try other burgers, pulled pork, and definitely the Mac'n Cheese. Suffering no ill after-effects, our scores averaged out to a solid 8. If you're looking for a classic burger with some interesting options, check this place out. It's worth the trip out to Etobicoke.

http://www.woodysburgers.com/index.html

Read all about it!

http://www.nowtoronto.com/letters/index.cfm?content=181947

In response the NOW magazine's recent review of Toronto's best burgers (July 21/11)

Great Burger Kitchen - It's HUGE! That's all I'm sayin'

It was a lovely spring day in the east end. The kiddies were still in school, and Mini Mac and I decided to venture to the Great Burger Kitchen at Jones and Gerrard. I'd heard around the grill that this place made a fine burger at their two locations; here and on lower Church St.

We were foolish and arrived around noon, when the local public schools were on their lunch break. The small venue was full of students, mostly ordering french fries. There were no tables, just a few seats around the side and windows, and we assumed this was to keep the kiddies from hanging out for too long. Good plan, but not really pleasant for regular customers. However, I don't imagine this is an issue at the other location.

We both ordered the Burger of the Day, including cheddar, salsa, and the basic onion, tomatoes, pickles and usual condiments. The first thing I need to mention is that this burger is HUGE. That's all I'm sayin'. It's HUGE. Not only that, but the fries and onion ring portions are enormous!

The website says the beef in their 6 oz. patties is 'grown' (I believe raised might be a better word choice here) in Ontario, and it was tasty. This is just me, but it was messy as all hell. Neither of us could fit the burger in our mouths, and it just ended up being a big mess at the end. The bun was white and fluffy, but very fresh. Small Fry would've been impressed.

Both the fries and onion rings were delicious. The rings were gigantic, with a crispy batter and the fries were clearly homemade. We scored them 7 and 8.

The choices here are pretty basic, and likewise with the condiments. Nothing fancy, but everything you want in a burger joint. I'd like to try their lamb burger and pulled pork on another visit. Also, nothing fancy with the drinks. No milk shakes, no lemonade, just your basic water and pop, and a few juices.
The most impressive thing about GBK is the value for the money. You save $1 off a combo, so our gi-normous meals only came to $13.50 each. This is a far cry from the $30 burger meals we've been seeing lately. And we couldn't even finish them. I recommend sharing.
Another honourable mention is that they have a nice simple website. I am so tired of maneuvering around and flipping through 20 pop-ups just to see a menu.
Mini Mac scored GBK an overall 8, but remember this was her first tour. I had to go with 7.5. Great value, good basic food, but almost too much too handle.
http://www.greatburger.ca