Food Nurd

I happen to be lucky enough to work for a company that does a grocery order every week, negating my need to seek out or bring lunch with me 95% of the time. On those days when I just don’t want to make something with my own two hands,  I can venture out and have my choice of Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, deli, Italian, health food….it goes on. I tend to opt for the deli or Vietnamese; however, when invited out by a friend to try the brand-spankin’ new burger place in the work ‘hood, who am I to say no?

Holy Chuck Burger opened on Yonge St. just south of St. Clair and has been attracting a steadily growing number of customers. The owners are clearly aiming to make it a fun place to pop in and happily chat with customers as they chow down on messy, delicious, occasionally-gigantic burgers. On my maiden Holy Chuck burger voyage I opted for the cheeseburger (two patties) with caramelized onions, ketchup, mustard, lettuce & tomato. Adding in the fries was definitely a good idea but sharing them with my lunch companion was an even better idea. I’m sure I could’ve finished them, but I suspect it’s for the best I didn’t. They were hot, perfectly fried and nicely seasoned with salt and parsley. All in all, the cheeseburger was pretty much the perfect size for me: while filling, it’s not so gluttonous that you couldn’t eat more than one a month.

Photo courtesy of Eyeline Imagery.

The cheeseburger itself was a glorious mess and I mean that in the best way possible. The griddle-cooked beef was crispy on the outside but still juicy on the inside as evidenced by the trail it left running down my hands. You’re going to need napkins, people, and plenty of them. If the burger isn’t juicy, why would you want it anyway?

And did my lunch partner and I stop at the burger and fries? Oh, hell no. We went in for the deep-fried Twinkie for dessert. As I exclaimed to Johnny, the joint’s co-owner, it’s like a deep-fried sugar bomb and that is just fine by me. My friend and I agreed that we felt like we should be at a fair eating this slightly insane dessert. Considering that the cold weather is on its way, this might be the perfect way to recreate some summertime memories! I understand that there is also a concoction involving bacon-wrapped cookie dough that is battered and deep-fried (notice a delicious, fatty theme here, folks?). I can hear your arteries hardening and your drool hitting the ground.

I am so happy that we have such a fun place in the neighbourhood to go. I understand there are some changes to come, but rest assured that the classics will remain on the menu and there are vegetarian options that look great! If you’re in the area – or even if you’re not – get yourself over to Holy Chuck Burgers. Don’t forget to grab a ton of napkins – you will make a mess.

Tags: Holy Chuck Burger, lunch, review