With America in the most turmoil I’ve certainly seen in my 37 years, folks can’t seem to agree on much. Whether from the left or the right, or somewhere in the middle, everyone can agree on the burger. (Yes, you can include veggie burgers if you’d like.) The hamburger is the classic American meal–ground beef, toppings (pick your poison), and cheese if you prefer, wedged between two halves of a bun. They can run the gamut from the basic to the extreme, but almost everyone agrees they are delicious. The following selections are my seven favorite burgers.
On the hunt for some of my favorite burgers, there are three locations in Plymouth, MA, one in Norwich, CT, one chain that is in both towns, and two in Vermont. It’s not an exhaustive list, but the ability to travel is quite limited these days. No matter what, these burgers won’t disappoint.
Perfect with a Craft Beer: The Speedwell Tavern
There’s nothing like burger night at Speedwell Tavern! Take one of their amazing burgers and pair it with a craft beer from their always stellar draft list. They’ve even had hard to find beers including Maine Beer Company’s Dinner on tap. The burger list ranges from basic to outrageous, but a must-try is the O’Bee Hive, which includes Honey BBQ Sauce, a stack of onion rings, and jalapenos smothered in cheddar cheese. Other specials may include a cajun style burger or one with an egg on top.
The Kitchen Sink: KKatie’s Burger Bar
Speaking of outrageous, try the Plymouth Rock from KKatie’s! This includes a pound of meat, bacon, and onion rings covered with cheese. The Vermonter includes cherrywood bacon, maple mayo, and Vermont cheddar. The California burger features avocado and the Good Morning has an egg on top. However you slice it, this place has some awesome burgers! For those who don’t want to be extreme, KKatie’s has a basic burger (and even a turkey and veggie burger for you). There are locations of KKatie’s in Marshfield, Hyannis, and the original in Plymouth.
Basic and Delicious: Worthy Kitchen
Worthy has a small empire in mid-Vermont, with Worthy Burgers and this outpost, Worthy Kitchen, in Woodstock. You’re not going to find crazy burgers here; these are basic but still amazing. Using local ingredients across the board, the taste of every bite is flat out superb. There’s no need for additives or extra toppings when the burger, veggies, and bun are this fresh! Talk about an amazing beer selection to boot: think the Alchemist, Hill Farmstead, and Lawson’s. Super fresh food and super fresh Vermont beer is quite the match! I’m enjoying mine with a double IPA from River Roost from nearby White River Junction.
The Big Surprise: 36 Town Grill and Tap
36 Town Grill & Tap is a family restaurant with a large menu near my folks’ house in Connecticut. I’ve been here for a beer and apps. I’ve always enjoyed my time here but recently on a take out order, I tried the burger. It’s massive! A huge patty topped with cheese and excellent bacon. Not only was it big, but it is also one of the best burgers I’ve had in the area. It’s a great choice for either eating inside or taking out, highly recommended! For the tap part of their name, think great local beer choices such as Grey Sail and Outer Light.
The Chain: Five Guys
While we don’t have In-N-Out Burger here in New England, Five Guys is another chain that simply does burgers well. The basic burger is really tasty and comes with a bag full of french fries. Don’t expect fried egg or avocado, but if you’re looking for a quick bite that won’t disappoint, Five Guys is it. With locations all over, there has to be one near you. For me, there are Five Guys both in Norwich, CT, and Plymouth, MA.
The Decadent Vermonter: Idletyme Brewing Company
One of my all-time favorite burgers has to be the Pub Burger from Idletyme Brewing Company in Stowe Vermont. The basic burger is satisfying but for true decadence, make sure to add the sharp Cabot cheese AND the bacon! (I’ve already mentioned their beer before) This is one of those burgers that you just don’t want to end. It’s heavy but so satisfying. Enjoy it with a flight of their own beer, and if you have room, may I suggest the fried pickles for an appetizer. Don’t worry, you can burn off the calories at the Stowe Rec Path that is in their backyard.
The Closer: Mirbeau
This burger is the closer because it is quite simply a thing of beauty and may just be the best of the bunch. It is topped with Gruyere cheese, portobello mushroom, and caramelized onions. In every bite contains a taste of each ingredient, all on a phenomenal bun. I enjoy all of the burgers on this list immensely, but this just maybe my favorite. Similar to Idletyme, this is a decadent burger, not for everyday consumption. There is nothing like dining outdoors at Mirbeau, a chateau-styled inn, and spa in Plymouth overlooking a garden patterned after Monet’s in Giverney, France.
The hamburger, the great unifying factor in 2020 America! Some like them steamed, like Ted’s in Meriden, CT. Some, basic, like Harry’s Place in Colchester, CT. Some like a variety like R.F. O’Sullivan’s in Somerville, MA but these seven are among my favorite burgers. Where do you go for your favorite burger?
Now I’m Jonesin’ for a hamburger! I’ll have to give the 36 Town Grill & Tap a try one of these days, that looks really good!
It’s really good- I like that spot but was surprised how much I enjoyed it.