Home of the Hamburger
What's a trip to the US without an extensive testing of the beloved Hamburger? Long derided in the UK, there's much more to it than a limp Big Mac or a soggy Whopper.
Fatburger
Part-owned by Magic Johnson, the Las Vegas branch was seemingly staffed by middle-aged ex-cons trying to make a clean start. Cooked to order makes all the difference with fast food, and that was the USP here.
Verdict: Fresh and juicy, plus good chili. 8/10
Johhny Rockets
Only founded in 1986, this retro styled chain is perhaps a little more about style that food, but still serves a good, fresh burger. I went for the double-decker Rocket Double, with Chili Fries. We passed up the original Melrose location, but managed a lunch in the branch down at The Grove.
Verdict: Pretty good.... 7/10
In-n-out Burger
A firm favourite in California, this chain now includes over 150 branches. We made the effort track down the North Hollywood branch, near that little shit Larry's house - and the crowd was extensive. The plain and simple menu stands on it's own, but for those in the know there are double the options thanks, to the no-so-secret menu (1,2). I went Animal style.
Verdict: Far and away the best, and ridiculously cheap ($1.65 for a Whopper sized burger!). Throw in the secret menu and it's an unbeatable 10/10
P.S. LA is also the home of Hugh Hefner. We bumped into him too.
Other recommendations? Drop a line in the comments. Islands was on my hit list, but I ran out of time.
17th Nov 2008 - Tumblr