Waun-a-Burger, Then have a Burger!!

Fire damages Al's Hamburger Shop

2011-08-28T07:38:00.000-07:00

Well burger lovers we may have lost a burger joint for good. Al's Hamburger in Green Bay WI had a fire last week. The owners at this time do not know if they will re-open. The funny thing is I was just there 3 weeks ago. I went to Al's while I was in Green Bay to see the Packers Training Camp. I also was there a couple years ago and did a post about Al's and Kroll's. Second trip to Green Bay . If you want more information about the fire go to the Green Bay Press Gazette. You also can search related stories on the Gazette page, just type in Al's Hamburger in the "search" to see the articles. It is always sad when a Burger Joint is lost. (Picture is from the Press Gazette.)

Pete's Hamburger open for the season!

2011-04-30T13:13:00.000-07:00

Ok I know it has been awhile since I posted. Don't think I gave up on my Burger Runs. I have been enjoying burger joints around Wisconsin and in Chicago. I just have not posted about my Burger Runs. I have even been on Burger Research with George Motz. Two things I need to inform you Burger Lovers. Pete's Hamburger in Prairie Du Chien WI opened for the season. They are only opened Fri-Sunday Pete's Also you can now order the Revised and Updated Version of Hamburger America! 50 new Burger Joints added!

Sobelman's

2010-02-19T11:19:00.000-08:00

I am once again behind my post. I did Sobelman's way back at the start of December. I went there because it makes Milwaukee's best list and other blogs have mention it. Once again my GPS gets there with no problems. I wonder how the pioneers got anywhere without GPS! The first thing you will notice is the building. Talking to Dave the owner, he informed me that the building was built in the late 1800's. It was one of Milwaukee’s original Schlitz taverns. When I got there it was close to 2 pm on a Saturday afternoon. Well I had to wait in line that is how busy it was. The tables I could see were all full, I could not see into the side room. The bar was even full with customers. I was second in line and got a seat with in minutes at the bar. The staff at Sobelman's is so friendly and courteous. They know their stuff. I don't think I have been called "Sir" that many times before. Well I get my seat and I am ready to order a burger. I sometimes go with a basic Hamburger or Cheeseburger or with the most popular burger. Well I went with what is the most popular, a Sobelman Burger. The burger is fresh Black Angus beef patties, fresh of course. The patty is put on a freshly baked country butter rolls made just for Sobelman's. The buns are beautiful, as you can tell in the photo.

Now here is what makes a Sobelman Burger special. There are three different cheeses on the burger. Then the burger gets topped with jalapenos and fried onions. I have had burger with jalapenos and they were hot. The Sobelman Burger had heat but more on the mild side, it added to the flavor, not dominate the burger. That is my opinion, someone else may think they are hot. As I wait for my burger I can watch the cooks on a small flat screen TV. Yes they have a camera over the grill so you can watch them cook burgers!! This is when I start talking to the owner Dave. He started the conversation because he saw my Hamburger America notebook (I got it for Christmas a couple years back) He gives me the history of the place and talks about their second location called Sobelmans Tallgrass Grill. They use beef from the Tallgrass Beef Company. With how busy they were, I did not wait that long for my burger. My burger was good and it hit the spot. I was glad I made the trip. This place has it right, a great product and a staff that wants you to enjoy your visit there. I really have to get back and try other burgers they have. I also have to get to the Tallgrass Grill. If you ever need a burger fix and are in the Milwaukee area, get to Sobelman's.

Sobelmans Pub & Grill is located at 1900 W. St. Paul Ave. Milwaukee WI
Map

Black Friday Burger Run Part II

2010-01-05T14:28:00.000-08:00

Part II of my trip, Kewpee Lunch (Hamburgers.) For my trip, I was planning swinging through Southeast Wisconsin. Then drive down to Chicago. Once in Chicago area I would hit Top Notch, Kuma's and Billy Goat. Well I only did my first two stops. My little voice said" lets save Chicago for another time." After Fred's I was off to Kewpee in Racine WI. It was a quick 30 minute drive from Fred's.

My GPS got me right to the front door. Once inside you are taken back to the early years of diners. I take a seat at the counter. I order a Double Hamburger with everything (onions, pickles, mustard and ketchup.) Before I can open up a newspaper that is next to me my burger is in front of me!!! 30 seconds sure beats the 50 minute wait at Fred's !!! Yes they had about 8 or so burgers warming on the griddle in the corner. Sort of made me sad that I was getting a "Fast Food Burger" The burger had dried out a bit sitting so long on the griddle but still hit the spot. My total time there was 10 minutes. I did not get up and look around but if you do want a good look check out Kewpee Racine. I know there are others, mostly in Lima OH and one in Lansing MI. The location in Racine is new, it was built in 1997.

Not my best or most fun "Burger Run" but I can check off two places off my list. On my way home I drove through Milwaukee. I have a bunch of places there to visit. One being Sobelmans.

Kewpee Lunch
520 Wisconsin Ave. Racine WI

Black Friday Burger Run Part I

2010-01-02T16:46:00.000-08:00

Once again behind on my post, sorry guys. It was Black Friday I was itching to do some burger research. Just as I did last year same time with George. We did Zwieg's in Watertown last year. Well this time I was in Burlington WI to try Fred's. It is 1 pm the usual time I try to get to a place. I try to miss the lunch rush so I can ask questions etc... Being Black Friday I thought everyone be shopping so I woud be safe. WRONG! The place is packed. Ten tables....full. Each table sits 4-6. Thirteen stools full. A lot of people so that means a lot of burgers going out. I am lucky to get a stool. I can see the griddle in the back and the cooks are very busy. I was told to go with the 1/2 lb. but I go with the 1/4 lb. Doing other stops and did not want to fill up. I go with a cheeseburger with fried onions and a tap beer. George would love this place it has Sprecher Root Beer on tap. Fred does all the woodwork for the bar and it shows. The bar is beautiful and everything is wood. As I look around I read the signs. Did you know you can get your name to replace Fred's for just $25 Million. I make small talk with a woman that is there with her husband and kids. Thank God she is there my burger is taking forever.

Now on to the burger. The meat is ground fresh daily and comes from a grocery store called Goose Berry's, with the buns also coming from there. You can get 1/2 lb or 1/4 lb which they call a slider. Now if you remember my order it was just a cheeseburger no side. Two reasons I just ordered a burger by itself. One I don't want to get full (other stops) and two it should get pushed towards the front of the orders somewhat I thought. I was wrong. My cheeseburger comes 50 minutes later. I am in the bar business and you do get busy but I guess they have a policy of cooking them as they come in. My order was simple. Did not have to use a fryer for a side and it was a single patty, it should have been moved up. Not to the front but it shouldn't have taken 50 minutes to cook a single patty. I know it was busy but come on.

Fred's has a special blend of seasoning they use making these "The World's Best Burgers." I even bought a jar of it. Although I have not used any of it yet at home. World's Best, I don't think so. It was a good burger but I would not travel just to go have one. Which I have been know to do. Yes I have driven a hour + for a burger. I guess I got my hopes up too high from how many people were there and word of mouth. If you do make it there when it is busy turn around and go back out the door. This burger is not worth waiting 1/2 hr + for.

Next Stop Kewpee in Racine WI

Fred's Parkview
596 N Pine Street Burlington, WI 53105

Tamarack II

2009-11-06T18:13:00.000-08:00

Once again I am trying to catch up on my post. I visited the Tamarack II back in September. Once again I was going of an article that listed some burger places north of Madison WI. (see last post) Well this time I have my Brother with me. He has done a couple Burger Runs with me. The Tamarack II (I guess the original is in Portage WI.) is in Morrisonville WI. Frogtown U.S.A is it's nickname.

Going off the article we were there to try the Jumbo Burger with bacon and cheese. I order mine with Swiss, my Brother goes with American. The Tamarack grinds it meat daily and this burger will be a 6 ounce patty. The patty will be grill pressed and once done topped with cheese and a healthy amount of bacon. My Brother and I liked the burger a lot. It had a real peppery taste to it. I have come across places that use a lot of pepper in it's patty. The Post #67 in Lake Mills and Wedl's come to mind. They should be similar they get it from the same place! The burger at the Tamarack must be good. I met some guys there that eat at my place!! I called them traitors!! Next time they came into eat at my place they asked what a traitor like me is doing at the Tamarack II !!!

Spring Creek Tavern

2009-11-06T17:27:00.000-08:00

Back in August I visited Spring Creek Tavern in Lodi WI. I got some information about the place in a local magazine that did a burger article on places North of Madison. I am not talking the North woods of Wisconsin. Places that are a quick 30 minute ride from Madison. Like most places I visit for a burger in Wisconsin this is a tavern. Tavern burgers usually get good word of mouth. Once again my girlfriend was with me, perfect time to go to the Spring Creek Tavern on a Monday. Two for one burger special on Monday. We walk in about 6:45 pm. The place was packed. Well I was there to try the Tavern Burger. This Burger is 80/20 ground chuck, "fresh never frozen." That phrase is getting old. Lets say a 80/20 blend of fresh ground chuck. The bun of this burger is baked daily across the street at Weber's Bakery. Spring Creek Tavern cooks it's burgers on a flat top grill. Once the Tavern Burger is done on the grill, it gets it's toppings. The burger is topped with cheddar cheese, sour cream and lettuce. Oh the burger is not finished yet, it gets a heaping pile of fried shoe string onions. In the picture that heaping pile to the left of my burger.... was on top of my burger!! This burger was a a mess!! shoe string onions falling off it. The sour cream and lettuce sliding all over the place. It was a good but I think I need to go back and try a "traditional" burger. The shoe strings and other toppings masked the burger. I still got two burgers for the price of one!!

Editors note: As I said I went to Spring Creek Tavern in August. I was doing some finishing touches on this post and came across this article Spring Creek Tavern. If you don't want to read it I will give you the short version. Spring Creek Tavern is closed. I guess I won't be going back to try another burger.

Time to catch up. No pun intended.

2009-09-28T18:26:00.000-07:00

Been awhile since I posted but I have material. Lets go way back to the start of August. I was near Rockford Il for a Corvette Show at a Home Depot parking lot. Across from the the parking lot was a Steak n' Shake. I ate there last year but did not get a picture. Well of course I deleted my picture of the burger I ate at Steak n' Shake. What I had was a "Wisconsin Buttery Burger." I guess they could not call it a "Butter Burger" since Culver's already has the rights to that, I guess. Only Solly's has the ok to use the name Butter Burger along with Culver's I guess. Let me tell you something..... you could actually taste the butter on this burger from Steak n' Shake unlike the burger you get at Culver's. I posted about Culver's in June.

Jumped ahead to the end of September. I have been trying to get to the "Big Boys/Chains" to post about them. I have had good burgers and good times. I have bad burgers and left scratching my head also. I still don't know how Culver's does it. Their sales in frozen treats must carry the franchise. Off track sorry. My next franchise I visited was...Red Robin. Now they have all these gourmet burgers. Don't get me started on a burger covered in a" California Style Salad" Once again I took my girlfriend with me. This is her 4th burger trip I think. I am glad she helps me with my hobby. I always like someone with me. Get their opinion, insight. My brother goes with me from time to time also.This would be my first time at a Red Robin, my girlfriend had been there before. I knew it was a bad sign when she orders a chicken wrap not a burger!!! I go with one of the basic burgers (which was hard to find), a Bacon Cheese Burger. I did not want Avocado on my burger! I get it with Swiss and the basic toppings plus mayo, which I hardly ever do (pictured above.) The burger.... if I go again I will order the chicken wrap I think. It was missing something.... hard to put my thumb on it. I guess I was paying for the atmosphere, like the Wendy's commercial says.

Now that was a quick post on my "Chain" burger spots. I tend to do more Ma and Pa joints and Taverns. I promise you I will get them posted. I have four places I need to write about and they are not the "Chains" See I told you I had "research material."

100 year old burger stand

2009-08-30T18:52:00.000-07:00

Where to start with this one???? Lets start with just a name. Pete's Hamburgers. Pete's Hamburgers is located in Prairie Du Chien WI. I caught word of this burger stand from Jeff Stanely (Dotty's Dumpling) last November. The name he was not sure of. I would ask people now and then if they have heard of a burger stand in Prairie Du Chien. No luck. I figured I would just have to drive the 2 hours and ask around Prairie Du Chien. Then the Burger Gods looked down on me! Last week the Wisconsin State Journal had and article on Pete's, front page even! Now after that article I had people ask me if I saw it. I have people giving me leads and info all the time now, which I love! I would tell them "Yes, I saw it and have a copy." Now after researching a bit more I made plans for my burger trip. What intrigue me the most was the history of Pete's. Make sure you checkout Pete's website. It is full of history and photos!

On this trip I would have my girlfriend. This would be her 4th burger trip with me. Now our trip would be about 2 hours one way so I took the scenic route. I took Highway 60 all the way from Sauk City WI to Prairie Du Chien. This Highway follows the Wisconsin River all the way to were it meets the Mississippi. It was a beautiful ride and can't wait to take it when the leaves change color during Fall. I am getting off track.

A little insight on how the burgers are made at Pete's. They are simmered/poached in a shallow griddle. Yes the burgers are put on the griddle then water is added. The water is the secret ingredient!! (inside joke.) There are onions also cooking with the burgers. This griddle can do batches of 50-60 burgers(pictured above) in 12 minutes. Now Pete's is open only Friday-Sunday 11 am-8 pm and open only in the "Warmer Months" here in Wisconsin. So figure late May to the 3rd weekend in October. I don't know how many burgers they do in the weekend but they easily can go through 300 lbs of onions. Now think of how many burgers that can cover...You do the math!!

You can order on either side of the stand. We waited on one side with about 12-15 people. On the other side is about another 6-8 people. The reason we are waiting is a "Batch of Burger" are being prepared. OK time to pay attention on how Pete's serves it's burgers. Now remember there are serving windows on each side. The most common way to order a burger is "with." If you are not a burger lover that means with onions. A lady in front of me ordered a onions only, yes onions and bun that's it! OK picture this, the griddle faces the front of the stand(pictured above) The cook turns to his right and takes and order. He then takes a burger places it on a bun adds onions and hands it to a server behind him and to his right. That person will add your condiments (Ketchup, Yellow Mustard, Brown Mustard, no Cheese.) That person will also get your soda and chips if needed and take your cash. After the cook finish the order on his right he turns to the window on his left. Then the whole process in done over again. After that order is done he returns to his right, pretty simple. As we wait my girlfriend is talking with a woman and we get some information from her. She is with her family. Her sons are the 4th generation to enjoy Pete's burgers. She use to live in Prairie Du Chien but had move to Texas. When she visited her folks she made sure she got to Pete's. She now is back in Prairie Du Chien so she can all the burgers she wants. Her order 2 without 3 with and that onion sandwich! In front of that family is a elderly couple with there daughter. They are from Iowa. One important thing I learned is that the burgers are going to be HOT so let them cool a bit. My turn at the window. I order two "with." The cook takes our burgers places them on the bun covers it with onions. He then places it on wax paper and sides it to his server. My girlfriend gets "Ketchup" I go with the Brown Mustard. There is no real seating but I knew that so back to my car and I got out folding chairs. We then sat by my car and ate our burgers. Burger researchers always come prepared!!! The burger is 1/4 lb. and you knew that if you read the WSJ article. First bite..... tender hot and can taste the beef. It is different to what I am use to, griddle or char-broiled burgers. It does get messy though, the bun soaks up the juices and water on the burger. I enjoyed the burger, my girlfriend said it was OK. The reason I enjoyed it is because of the history of the place and the family that has run the stand for 100 years.

Pete's Hamburgers
118 W. Blackhawk Ave.
Prairie Du Chien WI

Solly's once again

2009-08-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

It is hard to believe that I have not visited Solly's in more then a year. I have thought about going at times but for some reason I would not make the drive. Well I got there nice and early, 9:30 am. I was staying at a hotel just a mile away. I got there and the breakfast rush was done. I sat down and to my left a couple stools down was Glenn the owner. He was taking a break and having a coffee. He remembered me and we got talking about burgers and where I have gone. He filled me in that Andrew Zimmern had been there to film a show called Appetite for Life. It is a quick little video about Solly's. We also talked Culver's. He knows the owner and said the Franchise Consultants that help Culver's get started contacted him once. Glenn said no to having a Solly's Franchise. I am glad, Solly's is unique and I think you would lose something if you did"Cookie Cut Outs" of the place. Also learn that at times they have to cook the burger and ship it out to people that love them. A woman takes 20 Butter Burgers down to Chicago to her son and coworkers once a month. He also told me that they gave a guy burgers to take back to Colorado. I guess it made the whole plane smell like Burgers!! They have cooked them and flash froze them for some people. Best way to eat it is at Solly's though. We sat and chatted for awhile longer. I can't remember everything but it was fun just to chat. Back to the burger. I finally got somewhat good pics of the burger. I order a Butter Burger With, meaning steamed onions. The top picture you can see the butter on the right side on the burger, the second picture is a pool of butter on my plate. I let my girlfriend have the first bite. Butter started running down her wrist. "You knew that was going to happen." she said, "Yep." Now I had a burger she did breakfast. Let me tell you, I could eat a plate of the hash browns at Solly's. Yes the use the butter in that also. I wonder how I stay thin?!?!

If you are a burger nut, you must put Solly's on your list of "To Do."

Burger research with George Motz Part II

2009-07-31T19:02:00.000-07:00

Once again I find myself going to go meet George Motz for some Burger Research. On this day we started in Lake Mills at the V.F.W Burger Stand. I have been there to eat but George has not. George shows up and we go right to work. George likes to order the burger a place sells the most. He is told what it was by Carol who is working the window. George orders a "Burger With." Which is a burger with fried onions, more liked steamed. I pass on a burger knowing it is going to be a long day of eating. Some of the staff ask if George is the guy they read about in the morning paper. Word got out that he was coming to the area. You can read the "Leak" here... Wisconsin State Journal. George finish his burger and we go inside the little burger joint to ask questions. This place is small and I am surprise the seven of us could move around. (5 volunteers working and the two of us) I won't go in to details of what we learn but I will give you the basics. You can read about my other visit here, VFW Post 67 Ok this is a fried Burger. No grill, no flat top, this burger is fried in Canola Oil. If you ask for cheese they put it on the burger when it is about to be wrapped in wax paper. This is so the heat from the burger melts the cheese. We order another burger to be a model. George gets some shots then we split the burger to share it. Now George wants to get a picture of the front. He had to stand in the road. So I step out to stop traffic. At one point a Semi-Truck was coming at us. Who said Burger Research is not dangerous!!! Pictured above is George at work. After som more pictures George goes inside to get even more info. I wait outside just people watching as the lunch rush has started. George gets the info that he needs and a T-shirt then we are off to Jefferson WI, quick 10 minute drive. Before we leave though George gives me an In-n-Out Burger T-shirt for my help.

If you know your Hamburger America Book going to Jefferson means we are stopping at Perterson's or Wedl's. We order our burgers and George is catching up with the boys in the stand. He gets a couple pictures of the burger then we go inside to talk to the new owner. Inside there are pictures from way back of the place. Once again George strikes out with getting a T-shirt they are out. Now off to Madison WI.

We are going to Madison to go have a burger at the Plaza. We are also meeting Doug Moe who writes for the Wisconsin State Journal. He is the one that wrote the article of George's visit and has written a couple columns on burgers in Madison. George was excited to visit the VFW Stand but he was looking forward to taking a bite out of a Plaza Burger. It has a Special Sauce that George wants to know what it is. If you get to Madison have a Plaza Burger! We order our Plaza Burgers and boy do they hit the spot. We talk to Dean the owner and he tells us that people bring in the Hamburger America Book for him to sign. People that are on road trips using the book as a guide to destinations. Heck I even have my book signed by Dean last year. Have you lost count of how many burgers we have had??? Next stop my Dotty's Dumplings for some deep fried cheese curds!!

We get to Dotty's and I tell George this is my hang out now. I probably visit there once a week now. We go inside and order the cheese curds. Our order comes but we can't even put a dent into the order we are so full from eating all day. George gets a to go box so he can take them home. If George wanted a Plaza Burger the cheese curds were a close second on his list to eat that day. George heads out but I stay at Dotty's. It is about 2 pm now, we started at about 10 am. I am full and tired so I sit at Dotty's talking with the staff while I have some beers. Well around 6 I am still there just talking and getting hungry. Yep I order and Cheeseburger and fries. So that day I had 3 1/2 burgers and some cheese curds... I would have to say it was a good day. Hopefully the VFW Hamburger Stand will make the book. I have learn from George that you can get some good quotes from people. Well I got one that day and it came from George. I have called the burger places in Lake Mills, Watertown and Jefferson a "Triangle" George has a better saying he calls it "The Burger Belt." If you think from Madison WI to Milwaukee/Glendale there are 6 burger places that are truly Hamburger America. That is about an 80 mile stretch from Madison to Milwaukee/Glendale. 4 of the places are in the book with 2 more possibly in the new edition. If you are looking for Hamburger America, Wisconsin is a good place to visit.

Next up research for me in the Chicago area once again.

Hooters Burger

2009-07-22T18:47:00.000-07:00

Like I was going to put up a picture of the Burger from Hooters. Well a couple weekends ago I was in Rockford for a Corvette show. The show was at Hooters. About 4 of us from my Corvette Club went down to the show. As you can see the girls were out walking around the show. Picture is me with the ladies and my girl, the yellow Corvette. Ok back to the Burger. I order it medium rare. It came pretty much rare. I was so hungry that I did not care. I have the burger down quickly because the award presentation is happening. I actually liked the burger from this "Chain." It is no Five Guys but it was good, for some reason. I have had bad food from the Hooters that was, yes was in Madison.

For the past week I have been staying away from Burgers..... yeah me. Oh I have a good reason as you will soon find out!!!

Celebrating Hamburger America, Motz style!

2009-07-05T11:14:00.000-07:00

Well it is the July 4th weekend. What better way to celebrate then to grill out. On the Fourth I made Steaks and twice baked potatoes. On July 5th I was on a mission to grill my own burgers. I first went right to my local grocery store. I walked right passed the meat counter. I was there just to get buns. Next I go to my local butcher (Village Meat Market) but he is closed. They were open on the 4th so today was their off day. Well I know another place a quick 10 minute drive. I get to Jim's and the place is doing brisk business. I find what I am looking for ground Chuck. It says lean but I don't ask if it is 80/20. I get one pound and ask if it is ground twice, the gentlemen behind the counter says yes. I pay and I am on my way back home. Now I am planning on cooking on a gas grill. I am new to cooking on a gas grill but I am confident I will not make my burger a hockey puck. I was thinking of doing the Charcoal grill but the gas was faster. I take my ground beef and make into a ball, bigger then a golf ball, oops. The second patty was more of a golf ball size. I make a the patties with just the heel of my palm. I go out and throw them on the grill. No salt, no pepper. I use to season my patties but where I work we don't season our patties at all, we let the grill do that. 2 minutes, quarter turn, another 2 minutes and flip. Making grill marks and less flips the better. One more quarter turn and but the buns on the top rack to toast a bit. Put the buns on a plate and get the burgers on the bun. I go inside open up the fridge and take out........ NO not Ketchup! Mustard either. I grab my bottle of Chipotle Ranch!! Sure it is not the same as the sauce on a Motz Burger but it is close. Mmmmmmmm my own Motz Burger made at home. Most people would go to a fast food joint. With driving time to get beef, cook it I bet I put in 45 minutes. I could have gone the fast food way but this is more satisfying!! I plan on doing some other burgers in my kitchen, like the guberburger. I will save those for a day I need to cook inside. Today was a grilling day so I did. Can't find a burger joint..... just get some fresh ground beef and bring Hamburger America home folks.

Happy Birthday America!!

Second Trip to Green Bay

2009-07-04T07:20:00.000-07:00

Well I found myself in Green Bay WI the last weekend in June. As always I try to do Burger Research when I travel. I had two places I wanted to try, Kroll's East and Al's Hamburger Shop. Most people in Green Bay know about Kroll's but not as many know about Al's. I did the Kroll's West location last summer, The Great Burger Trip Day 2.

Kroll's East was est. in 1935 it is a Tavern/ restaurant. Here is a description from their menu: All of our burgers are made fresh on the premises from 100% Black Angus Beef; then char grilled to perfection over hot coals. Each of these mouth-watering sandwiches is topped with real Wisconsin butter (margarine on request) and served on a toasted (semel) hard roll (soft roll on request)

They have a large menu but I was there for the burgers. The staff seemed to be mostly High School kids. A young lad took my order. I ordered a Cheeseburger and fries. The "Everything On" is catsup, yes I said castsup, raw onion, pickles, butter and sharp American cheese. I hold the onion on my order. Glenn from Solly's told me to try this place last year but I did the West location not the original. I know some people from Green Bay, they also tell me the burgers are good here plus the chili. Kroll's always gets Best of Green Bay. While I wait, I take in the place. There is a horseshoe counter with about 12-13 stools. There are many booths, wooden no cushions. Here are some nice photos. I usually try to get a view of the cooking area but not today. There is a separate door outside that people go through to the pick-up window for carryouts. While I wait I see an order of about 8 burgers go out to the dining room. It takes about 10 minutes for my order, which is not long. I don't look for fast food, just good food. My Cheeseburger comes wrapped in wax paper that is it. My fries are in a paper basket. My order total, $7.30 with a beverage. The bun is toasted and my Cheeseburger is cut in half. I take it and the butter is oozing onto my wax paper. When I did the West location I could hardly taste the butter. There is a really charred taste to the burger. Knowing me I have the burger gone in seconds. The one thing I do next time is hold the "Catsup." They put so much on, it takes away from the butter. I do have to say Solly's is a better Butter Burger. Kroll's definitely is a family place. The place is big, a sign says limit 271. If you sit in a booth you push a button to call for service. I buy a shirt and head to my next location, Al's Hamburger Shop.

Al's Hamburger Shop, where do I start. This place is small, signs says limit 30 people. Another sign says est. 1934. Al's has a counter with 14 stools, one table and 4 booths. There is a sign by the menu it says, "No Whining When Dining" There is another sign that says, "This in not Burger King, you don't get it your way. You take it my way or you don't get a damn thing!" The booths were full when I arrived about noon. There was maybe 1/2 dozen stools open. The place felt packed or I was just scared haha. A regular is riding the waitress/cook, being a smart guy I just sit quietly and wait. I guy lights up a cigarette, I am not use to seeing that, Madison has had a smoking ban for awhile. As I sit I notice the stools are mismatched, some with legs some bolted down. I tell you they are not too comfy. I put my order in a Cheeseburger with fried onions. I look at the crowd since some have left. A family of 3, a mom, little boy and grandma in one booth now. At the counter are older men ranging from 50-70. I could not sit by the grill but I can see it where I was sitting. The grill is small!! maybe holds 16 patties?? An order of 3 burgers goes in right before me. I waited for 20 minutes for my burger. I was starting to get up set, then my burger arrived (pictured above) I take a bite. It was worth the wait. It is a thick burger, I think to thick to be cooking on a griddle that is why it took so long, plus it must be on a low setting. My onions are on the bottom bun if you can tell by the picture. I have to say Kroll's was good but I think I liked Al's better. Now the decor and atmosphere of Kroll's was better haha. Maybe that was because my waitress/cook and no front teeth, top or bottom!!! I love Burger research!!!

Kroll's East
1658 Main St.
Green Bay WI 54302

Al's Hamburger Shop
131 S Washington St.
Green Bay WI 54301

Another Chain, this time White Castle

2009-06-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

Well a couple of weekends ago I was in Chicago for a Corvette Show. While I was there I was going to try to do some "Burger Research." I was thinking of trying Top Notch Beefburger it was about 5 miles from where I was staying. I changed my mind when I saw a White Castle a block away from my hotel. Perfect chance to do one of the "Chains" again. Yes I have never had a White Castle slider. There are zero, zip, none near me. So I order a sack for myself, which was 4 cheeseburgers, fries and a drink.

I find my table and dig in. The sliders did not wow me but I have them done in no time. I don't think I will stop at one again, I could see stopping at White Castle for a snack after a night at the bar though! Later on that night though I was not feeling that well, burp! Check White Castle off the list. I should have gone to Top Notch, oh well back in Chicago in August for another Corvette Show. This time I will make sure I get to Top Notch.

Culver's

2009-06-25T18:20:00.000-07:00

Well I said I start to do some of the "Chains" or "Big Boys." So here goes. Culver's started in Sauk City WI over 20 years ago. Now it is in every town and city in Wisconsin it seems, plus other states. I just go there for their frozen treats and chicken sandwich. I have not had a burger from there in 10+ years. So that should tell you something. I order a double Cheeseburger meal deal or whatever they call it, #1 lets say. I get my beverage, grab a paper and find my booth. My burger arrives a little too quick. I guess I am use to burger joints that cook it for you to order. Culver's says they use fresh beef but I wonder if they do the old cook it and throw it in a warmer. My first bite reminds me of something I can cook in my own frying pan at home. It is also suppose to be a butter burger.....HA. I think they take a little brush of that fake liquid butter and put it on the bun. I could not even taste it. I finish my meal and remember why I don't eat burgers at Culver's. Best part of my meal was the fries. I have to say that this burger was better then what I got served at Sonics. That is easy to do though.

Now I got word that Culver's got voted "Best Burger" in Madison for 09'. There had to be some voter fraud for that to happen. Yes Dotty Dumplings got knocked out of the top three.... I plan to visit the two other places to do some research, The Gold winner I know is not a great burger but to bring knowledge to you burger lovers.... I will make the sacrifice!

Like I said I go to Culver's for treats and their chicken sandwiches. Their prices are high so be ready to spend a $15-$20 real easy for two of you.

Lake Mills V.F.W Post No. 67

2009-05-31T15:26:00.000-07:00

Finally the Lake Mills WI V.F.W. is open!!! I learned about this spot from George Motz and did a run with him to the V.F.W. last November. It was closed when we visited but you can get caught up by clicking here..... Lake Mills V.F.W. The V.F.W. is open only on Fridays during the summer. Memorial Day to Labor Day I would think. They open at 10 am on Friday and close... " When they run out of patties." I was told.

I got there with my girlfriend close to 7 pm on. I told her this is her first burger run, Sonic does not count!!! We get in line, yes line. There is about 12 people in line, with another 4 waiting for their orders. I guy in front of me said "It is like this at times and there are times when there is no line." The Burgers are cheap! $1.75 for a Burger and $2 for a Cheeseburger. Toppings, all you can get on it is fried onion and boy can you smell it when the wind blows just right. They write your order on a Brown Paper Bag. I order 4 Cheeseburgers, Pepsi and Diet Pepsi. The cashier writes on the bag.. 4C and "P" "DP" Which means 4 Cheeseburgers, Pepsi and Diet Pepsi, pretty simple. I should have ordered 3C but thought Amy wanted 2 also, wrong. So I put down 3 Cheeseburgers. I would say they are about 1/4 lb. They have a t-shirt that says " Have a slider with us." The Burger is large so to me it is not a slider but it is greasy so it will "slide down." I will have to get a shirt the next time. I have a couple shirts from places I visited.

We take our order and go across the street to the Park. The grease is starting to show through the bag, good sign right. Now the first bite reminded me of Wedl's in Jefferson WI. It was really peppery. I put down the 3 Cheeseburgers no problem... ok the 3rd one I had to catch a second wind. I go back to the stand and wait to talk to the cashier to get some info. An order for 20 burgers had just gone in. I don't know how they fit 5 people into this place guys!!! Yes it is that small. I ask the cashier when they open and found out 10 am till they run out.

I plan to go back. For one I have to finish research with George there and second I plan to take my Corvette Club there. Yes it is a good burger and yes it is "Hamburger America."

Burgers lovers there is a Hamburger Triangle east of Madison WI. Lake Mills V.F.W, Wedl's in Jefferson and Zweig's in Watertown. All in a short 20 minute or less drive from each other. If you have the stomach for that many burgers and time try to do the "Wisconsin Burger Triangle!"

Sonic

2009-05-31T15:13:00.000-07:00

Well I said I would start to hit some of the "Fast Food Big Boys." My first stop Sonic. Sonic just opened in Middleton WI, burb' of Madison. I also heard an east side location is going to happen. East side for you out of towners means the "East side of Madison." I have seen the commercials for years but there was never one close to me... until now. I ordered a Cheeseburger (which is a double) and Tots. My girlfriend ordered a Bacon Cheeseburger. Now they have "Car Hops" on skates but no staff on skates this night. They actually are looking for "Car Hops" that can skate!!

Our order arrives..... wrong! Two Cheeseburgers. No Bacon on any of them. We send one back and get one with Bacon. I have heard they screw up a lot at this location, so it was expected. It was not that good but I did not think it would be. One thing though they put shredded lettuce on a burger your eating in the car. I was picking that off myself a lot. I asked my girlfriend if she do Sonic again. She said " Only for the treats." Enough said.

Food Network and the State of Wisconsin

2009-05-26T13:22:00.000-07:00

I caught word that the Food Network was doing a "Best of/Most Interesting Burger in Wisconsin" for it's June/July issue. Actually every State. Here is a link so you don't have to go waste money on a magazine. 50 States 50 Burgers. Of course here I will be talking about the burger picked as Wisconsin's "Best/Most Interesting."

Let me start off my saying that Food Network contacted Doug Moe, writer for the Wisconsin State Journal. George Motz has used him as a source, as have I. Well they could not use Doug because he was not a "Food Critic." Are we not all critics of food! They wanted to be consistent across the country with their sources so they use food editors and critics. Here is Doug Moe's article, Brat Burger

The Burger chosen for Wisconsin was from the Great Dane Pub & Brewing Co. The Burger is called, The Great Dane's Brat & Bacon Pretzel Burger. That's a mouth full and so is the Burger. It is interesting. Here is what is printed in the menu:

A one-third pound U.S.D.A. choice ground beef patty and a one-quarter pound bratwurst patty grilled with caramelized onions and topped with applewood smoked bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, lettuce, pickles and tomato. Served on a pretzel roll with a side of Peck's Pilsner mustard. $9.75

The pretzel roll was the best part of this Burger.....Burger, it was a Monster. Now in Wisconsin Bratwurst or "Brat" for short, should look like a sausage link...NOT A PATTY. We just had Brat Fest over the holiday weekend in Madison WI. They did not serve Brat Patties. I was thinking this Brat Burger would have a Traditional Brat spilt lengthwise and put on top of a Burger. We use to have something like that where I work. We called it a Turtle, because the Brat/Burger look like a Turtle... with the bun the Brat stuck out a little and look like a Turtle poking its head out. Sorry side tracked.

I order it and get some fries, you get a choice of sides. I order my Burger, medium.
Well my Burger comes and it is huge!! I open my mouth as wide as I can and try to take a bite. The first bite mostly pretzel. Everything is starting to slide around and making it hard to eat. Let me tell you this, by looking at the patties it was hard to tell which was which. They looked a lot alike. Which is bad. I had no pink in the burger patty oh wait that is the brat patty. The burger patty has no pink either. You want to take a bite to get all the flavors to blend together with the burger but it is hard. I don't even remember tasting the bacon. I remember seeing it though. Well I finish the beast, the Bartender ask "How it was? I wanted to say "I can name you 10 Burgers off the top of my head that are better then that." All I said was "Good." That was a stretch.

This is one Burger I will not have again and will tell people not to have. This Burger just did not work well. Too much of this and too little of that. What this and that is I don't know. Everything did not blend well as I said. All I can say is the Pretzel Roll was the best part of the sandwich, I said that before didn't I. Maybe to get a point across.

Have you Burger lovers notice a scary trend??? Gourmet Burgers, Non-Traditional Burgers. Look at some of the national chains like Red Robin etc.... What is happening??? What happen to ordering a juicy Bacon Cheeseburger or a juicy hot Hamburger made right in front of you!!! Some chains have it right, like Five Guys. If you want to experience Hamburger America folks... you got to go to the Ma and Pa Joints!!!

Time to get on my soapbox, oh wait I am already!

Now here is a little word to the Food Network. Leave your little office in N.Y. City and go out in the real world. Get out there and try some Ma and Pa Burger Joints. They usually make the best Burgers and are hell lot cheaper then the Build a Monster Burgers. Don't phone it in or email it either Food Network. I am sure some of the places listed in the 50 are great Burgers. They may even be Ma and Pa Joints but I doubt you even had one bite of them. I love going out to research Burgers. Sure I stay regional but hey George Motz travels this nation why can't you. On runs I meet nice people. I hear great stories. I take family and friends with me on Burger runs and they love it also. So next time you do a list Food Network try leaving your own zip code! You took a swing and missed big time for the State of Wisconsin best/most interesting Burger.

Sorry I had to do that. OK I will get off my soapbox now.

I have decided to try some research at some of the chains/fast food. I have done Five Guys and Culver's is big here. Don't worry I will still be doing the Ma and Pa Joints. Actually doing a run this weekend, end of May. I just have to see why a trend towards chains/fast food?? It may be fast but is it good?

I like burgers but WOW

2009-05-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

I like burgers but this is too much. Heart Attack Grill in Tempe AZ. I get burger related stuff sent to me and I thought I share it with you Burger Lovers. I have not done any research on Burgers lately but don't worry, I will be posting some Burger Joints I have visited soon.

Twin Cities Burger Trip Stop #4

2009-03-29T08:50:00.000-07:00

After eating at the Nook, I was off to the Band Box, downtown Minneapolis. I hop into my car, type in the address for my GPS and I am off. I miss my turned so the GPS takes me on a different route. I am sure glad I had a GPS on this trip. Every trip actually. I get to where I want to go but I don't see a sign. I drive a bit further down the block and find the Band Box. I park around the corner and go inside. This is your typical diner from way back. The Band Box is the oldest diner still in operation in Minneapolis. If my memory is correct I think it open in 1932 or is it 38'? There is just one table full, me and 3 others at the counter. The man to my right is getting an omelet.... It is huge!!! I order a hamburger that is it and a coke. Now this patty is frozen but George told me to check it out anyway. I get my burger and it is hot! Now the Burger was good, I should have gone with cheese, maybe being fresh would help also but the Band Box is Hamburger America. It is what it was like 60+ years ago. You would go to a diner or Hamburger shack, get a Burger cheap, quick by people you knew. Nowadays it is Fast Food joints with commercials and gimmicks. That is why I like to go on Burger Hunts, find a Ma and Pa joint and enjoy their Burger.

Now each Burger experience is different for me. Maybe the cook was off that day or staff. I pointed out that I liked the 5-8 Club Lucy better then Matt's Bar. The thing is Matt's has more character as a place then The 5-8 Club. I am not out to find the best Burger. I point out that I enjoyed it, it was great or it was sub par. As I posted earlier, people ask me what is the best Burger I have had.... My answer changes each time. The Burger is part of it, what else I enjoy is the atmosphere and people I meet.

Now after that Burger I go back to my hotel room to rest. I then head out to The Wienery. I saw it on the Food Network. I was about to walk in when I changed my mind. I had Burger overload, so I head back to my hotel. I actually did not eat a Burger till the following Thursday, that is 5 days without a burger, which is odd for me!

Overall a great time in the Twin Cities. I have to get back there, I learned about some new places I have to try.......Another road trip to the Twin Cities, Yes!!!

Band Box Diner
729 S. 10th St.
Minneapolis MN

Twin Cities Burger Trip Stop #3

2009-03-28T10:44:00.000-07:00

Stop #3 was Saturday morning March 14th. After filling up on Burgers on Friday surprising I was ready for a Burger. I grab my GPS and headed to Caspers & Runyon's Nook, The Nook as it is known. I got there just a few minutes after 11 am. There were already 6-8 tables full. I sat at the corner of the bar, which seats 10-11 people. A regular takes a seat a few stools down and asks Nicole, the bartender it they opened early? "Nope, just everyone came at once." Good sign right!!! They open at 11 and it is busy already. The grill area is tiny and 3 guys are working the grill area!! How they do it I don't know. I mean small maybe 8 x 10 area!?!? I mean you have to side-step, shuffle through the area. It is like the guys are taking small dance steps to move around. Now it is 11:15 and there is a waiting list to be seated. There is a fake water spill on the bar, I fall for it!!! I ask for a bar towel, the bartender just smiles.

The jukebox is playing anything from Classic Rock to Stevie Wonder. When she has a chance I talk to Nicole and ask what to order. She likes the Paul Molitor, which is a Lucy stuffed with Pepper Jack Cheese. I am tempted but I want to stay simple. So I order the Nookie Lucy (American Cheese) and fried onions, no fries went with coleslaw. I have other Burger stops today. By this time 10-12 people are standing in the corner and by the door waiting for tables to open, this place is packed!!

I get my order, Nicole tells me to wait a bit before I start. After a few minutes I take a bite. The cheese starts oozing out the Burger. The Burger is medium and is the way it comes unless order different, which is good. I don't like well done, which Matt's Bar does. The 3 ladies to my left are waiting for a table and are eyeing my Burger. I wave my hand over my Burger to waft the aroma towards them. The lady seated right next to me goes "Ohh that smells good!" " I can smell the onions." I have to say this is one juicy Burger and not just because of the cheese!

I make small talk with Dave, who is seated to my right. Is every guy named Dave here?!?! Once again you get little bits of information of what to try and where to go. He like me is a rookie at the Nook. He tells me to try The Gopher Bar...."If I am not Burgered out I will try." I tell him.

Overall a great place. I still cannot believe how busy it was, right away. It is a small place but still it filled up fast. So get there early if you can. Once again a neighborhood bar that makes a great burger. The place is filled with nick-knacks and beer signage. I wish I took a menu, they had some history of the place on it. My opinion is The Nook makes a better Lucy then Matt's Bar. Matt's is way to done for me. I would say go to The Nook and The 5-8 Club if your looking for a Lucy.

Next stop, The Band Box which was suggested to me by George.

The Nook
492 Hamline Ave. S
St. Paul Mn 55116

Twin Cities Burger Trip Stop #2

2009-03-22T12:10:00.000-07:00

Second stop March 13th a Friday is The 5-8 Club. After leaving Matt's Bar I head South on Cedar Ave. to The 5-8 Club. It is only a 2 mile drive, quick right, not during rush hour!! I get there and the parking lot is full with overflow into the street. I park across the street at a church and enter through the back. Think Supper Club when you think 5-8. Where you enter is the "sit down area" and it is full, 5 pm and packed!!! Well I am not sitting here, off to the bar. I go to the bar and thankfully I get a seat, the last one at the bar. The small bar tables are also full. I get my beer and start small talk to the guy on my right, Nick is his name. We talk a bit of NCAA Hoops, then burgers. I tell why I am here and that I just was at Matt's Bar. I also tell him I plan on going to The Nook. He tells me that is a good place and that he goes there a lot. The guy on my left hears our conversation, his name is Dave and he joins in on the burger talk. Dave tells me that "Man vs. Food" filmed here recently (The show is on the Travel Channel) and that he got interviewed while they filmed. Now I have to DVR the show, March 25th I think, and see how he did.

After some more Burger talk I buy a round of beers for the 3 of us. Lets say Nick drank his without a thank you, talked with his friends and left. No thank you or even offer to buy a round, beer. I don't like Nick.... Dave I like!!! We chatted some more and he bought me a beer as a Thank You. He did not have to, a Thank You would have been enough. While we chat the waitstaff is thinking of what to write in my Hamburger America book. Bobbie, my bartender is a blast!!! She is a smart ass that will dish it out but will take it also (Love ya Bobbie!)

By this time I am hungry and Dave is also. I look at the menu, at The 5-8 Club you can stuff your Burger with different cheeses. Matt's is American Cheese only. I am thinking of trying Swiss Cheese. I check to see what Dave likes to order....Swiss...good! So I order a Juicy Lucy with Swiss. I also can order to my liking, not like Matt's. I order it Medium Rare and fried onions. As a side I get JOJO's. (Pictured is my Lucy and JOJO's) Dave usually gets a Lucy but not tonight. He goes with a California Cheeseburger, which is lettuce, tomato, mayo and Swiss as a cheese.

My order takes longer so Dave gets his first. Not long after though I get my order. As you can see my Lucy has a toothpick in it with a colored top. That tells the cook, staff what kind of cheese is inside. I start on my JOJO's to let my Lucy cool. Let's say the JOJO's could feed 2-3 people easily! Now it is time for the Lucy. I take a bite..... OH MY was it good!!! Cook to order, medium rare, so some pink. Not like Matt's a Hockey Puck... or well done. The 5-8 Club's Lucy was good, moist and messy!!! Bobbie asks how it was?? I say "Great, better then Matt's!" There I said it. I get so full I have a hard time finishing my JOJO's. Burger coma sets in, yep sleepy. I get a shirt from Bobbie and she and Lisa sign my book. I tell you what they wrote but that is for Dave and I to know! My meal was cheap, 5 beers (Nick you owe me one!) a Juicy Lucy and JOJO's just over $20 but my time there was priceless.

A big thank you to Dave and Bobbie for a great time I had sitting at the bar at The 5-8 Club. If you missed it I said the Juicy Lucy is better at The 5-8 then Matt's got it!!

The 5-8 Club
5800 Cedar Ave. South
Minneapolis MN 55417
612-823-5858

Next stop... The Nook

Twin Cities Burger Trip Stop #1

2009-03-17T18:02:00.000-07:00

March 13th 2009 My first stop Matt's Bar, Minneapolis. I get there about 4 pm. I have my Hamburger America book and the bartender asks where I am from. I tell her "I am from Madison WI (Waunakee actually which is a burb' of Madison.) I told her I was up in the Twin Cities for the weekend doing Burger research. Gigi, the bartenders name, asks if i do Burger research every weekend. "No" I say. "I had some free time and wanted to visit the Twin Cities for some Burgers." " So it is a hobby then?" she goes. "Yes you could call it that." I say with a laugh.

I order and Jucy Lucy and a beer...............minutes later........my Jucy Lucy arrives. I ask Pauly the cook, "How long should I wait?" "As long as you want but take little bites to start." He tells me. I guess I followed the directions correct, I did not burn my mouth on the hot cheese!!! The bun is good and the cheese oozing out is something special. Yes I make a mess, the cheese pools on my wax paper. The cheese pooling reminds me of Solly's Butter Burger and the way the butter drips and pools on the plate. I use my Burger to wipe up the cheese before it hardens. That is all I ate at Matt's, I had to save room for another place that night.

The Burger takes longer to cook then normal, about 5-6 minutes per side. Sure the Burger is well done but the little surprise inside is worth it. It is so runny it is almost like melted butter. It got busy when I got my Burger. I would say about 5 booths were full and a table in a 20-25 minute time. Gigi told me that by 6 pm there may be a line out the door. A good sign right!! Paul gives phone orders about 15 minutes to pick up. That is a good time when there are 14-16 Burgers in the griddle (Pictured, wish it was better.) They must have served 16-18 people in a half hour not counting carry-outs.

Once again a neighborhood bar where they know your name....sounds like some lyrics to a sitcom right! Again the last few minutes I am at a place I get some good quotes/info. A man comes up to the bar to pay for his family's meal. He tells Gigi that his son (about 8 yrs old) told him that was the best burger he ever had. He told his Dad this in the bathroom!!!! The wife of the man sees my Hamburger America book and we chat a bit about what I am doing. They ask what is the best burger I have had. Now I hate that question but I answer it. I tell them "Bud's Bar in Sedalia CO and Solly's in Glendale WI." I swear I answer it different each time haha. After some more small talk I purchase some T-shirts from Matt's as a little reminder of the place stuck in the 50's. I also get my book signed by Gigi and Pauly. I have a nice collection of signatures in the book now!! If you like a well done Burger, this Burger is for you, so go have a Jucy Lucy and check out the decor at Matt's Bar.

Matt's Bar
3800 Cedar Ave. South
Minneapolis MN 55407

Next Stop #2 The 5-8 Club.

Five Guys with my Brother.

2009-03-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

My brother has gone with me on a couple burger trips around the area. I also take him to places I liked. This time I took him to Five Guys. He loved the burger!! I told him I never take him to a place with a bad burger. He had the Cheeseburger with Fried Onions, while I did the Bacon Cheeseburger and we split a larger Fry. While I was there I heard a cook say that another one would be opening in the area. Watch out Mickey D's here comes Five Guys!!

My Burger

2009-03-08T09:38:00.000-07:00

So how did I come up with the title Waun-a-Burger, then have a Burger!! Well there is a burger named The Waun-a-Burger. I work at bowling center and that is one of our burgers. The bowling center name, The Waun-a-Bowl. A few business names in Waunakee start with Wauna. What is a Waun-a-Burger?? Well pictured is a 1/2 lb. burger, you also can get a 1/3lb. The 1/3 lb comes on a toasted small squishy bun, where the 1/2 lb comes on a par baked roll or French Round (got me?? but it is good.) We tried to use Brioche once for the 1/2 lb. and people hated the change so we went back to this "Big Bun". The patty is fresh, never frozen. It is a char-broiled burger, that's right. In my travels I notice using the griddle is more common. The Waun-a-Burger comes with two cheeses, that is American and "white" American. We call the white, Swiss. Why I don't know. Also on the burger is a slice of deli ham, which is cooked on the griddle. I use a deli slicer to slice ham myself, thank god I have not lost a finger yet!!! On the side of the Waun-a-Burger you get lettuce, tomato and pickles. What makes it extra good is a side of Ranch. I have been using Chipotle Ranch.....yummmmm. In the picture you will see a large order of fries with the Chipotle Ranch for dipping. That's my house burger and thanks to Matt for making it for me. The Burgers at the Waun-a-bowl are the best Burgers in Waunakee WI. If you are in Waunakee, stop in at the Waun-a-bowl, ask for Todd and we can talk burgers and maybe Matt will be on the grill that day!

Little side note, another Burger Trip coming up.... This time the Twin Cities!!!

Burger road trip

2009-02-07T12:57:00.000-08:00

Around Thanksgiving I was at Dotty's Dumpling. There I ran into owner Jeff Stanely. I actually go there every few weeks now. I know most of the wait staff by name, is that good or bad!?!? I was talking burgers with Jeff and he gave me a place to try. Paul's Tavern in Dubuque IA. Now I have gone on a one day burger run before that is an hour drive, this would be about an hour and a half plus drive. This will be about 195 round trip. I have been trying to get there for the past two months but weather or something else came up. Finally I had a nice day for the drive from Madison WI to Dubuque.

I get to Paul's about 12:30 pm. Be ready when you walk in! There are wildlife trophies everywhere. All the wildlife trophies are Paul's. Paul's Tavern has about 4 booths and about 16 stools. I take a seat at the bar, I could not get a seat close to the cook. I look up and there is a Polar Bear staring at me. There is about 12 of us at the bar with people coming in and going out. I get a soda and tell the bartender I will order in a bit. What I want to do is just sit and take in what is going on. Little did I know that I will get a lot of info talking with the staff. I think I learned what to ask when I was on a burger research with George.

Now the oven/broiler was made by Norge. I was told it was called a Broilator. I search the web and found Norge but not the broilator stove. I did find an ad though, Norge. When you open the door, the pan slides out towards the cook. The burgers are cooked on both sides by a flame, so no flipping. The burger is fresh and made by hand daily. It is a 90/10 blend and I was told it is about 1/4 lb. The burger is served on a toasted white squishy bun (pictured are my burgers and bun.) They will cook to order and the toppings are cheese, tomato, onion if you want. The Broilator can hold up to 8 burgers at a time. This Norge Broilator was made in 1932 and was new to Paul's in 1948. The original owner Paul is 82 and now his brother Tom has own the place for 18 yrs. Dave another brother works there also and who gave me most of the information about the burger and Paul's. I was told most of the staff is family by a regular.

My burger was HOT, I ordered a Hamburger and a Cheeseburger. No toppings just some yellow mustard. I liked the Cheeseburger best. The toasted white squishy bun was a nice touch. It was not lightly toasted this was done. The price is cheap also, 2 burgers, 2 sodas and a beer under $10.

This place is unique and some people may call it a dive. To me it is a it is a local bar that has it regulars and has not changed in a long time. Nothing fancy here, just a place people go to talk, drink and have a burger. Saturdays are the busiest day for burgers. The day before Thanksgiving and Christmas they offer free turkey and dressing. They serve more burgers that day then they serve the turkey and dressing. Could it be because the next day people will be having it for dinner, I doubt that. Who would pass up a free meal and order burgers instead? Dumb question, I would! What I will remember about Paul's besides the animals mounted on the wall is the way my burgers where cooked. Hopefully I can find some more info on the Norge Broilator. As I am getting ready to leave the jukebox starts to get played. I better get going before one of the regulars grabs me for a dance, I think to myself. I shake hands with Dave and tell him I will be back. An hour and a half trip seems short when you have a good time.

Paul's Tavern
176 Locust St. Dubuque IA
563-556-9944

Harmony Bar & Grill

2009-02-03T14:37:00.000-08:00

This event happen on January 17th 2009.

Took my seat close to the griddle as I could. I usually try to do this when I visit places. I do this because I get to watch and second I can talk to the cook or waitstaff. To me it is another Wisconsin Tavern. The decor is great! Once again look at the ceiling, the decorative molding, it is like the Main Depot. Harmony is also a great place to hear Jazz.

Now they sell a lot of Walnut Burgers.... which is a veggie burger. No go for me!! I order a Cheeseburger and fries. The burger is a 1/3 lb. fresh patty. Watching it cook on the griddle, it seemed bigger then a 1/3 lb. The griddle must be on a low setting, it seemed the burgers were on it along time. I am talking 5 minute plus a side it seemed.

The Cheeseburger arrives...I am starving, no breakfast. The Cheeseburger comes on what I call a kaiser bun. It is not a hard roll like you would think but a lot of bun. I am thinking too much for this burger....maybe a 1/2 lb. burger but not a smaller one. Like I said it was on the griddle along time... That being said it is a flavorful, beefy burger. Not dried out and not the juiciest burger either. The burger hit the spot though.

Overall the Harmony is a people's place, neighborhood bar. Blue Collar, hardworking people mixed with the "Professionals." It is a place people got to relax and unwind. I know I will be back. Maybe next time I will try a Walnut Burger....HA HA!!!

Hamburger America Gear

2009-02-03T14:23:00.000-08:00

Well time to catch up with things. Been awhile since I put a post up. Have to flash back to Christmas. My family knows I am a burger nut and they even encourage it. Heck my brother and Dad have gone on a few burger hunts with me. Pictured is some clothes I got for Christmas. That is a Hamburger America T-shirts, notebook and apron. I guess they are buttering me up so I take them on more burger hunts.

George Motz interview

2008-12-21T19:37:00.000-08:00

Fans of Hamburger America. If you want to hear George talk about his film and book try this: Mr. Media It is about an 55 min. talk about burgers, his research for the book and film.

Village Bar once again.

2008-12-14T09:49:00.000-08:00

I met my brother at the Village Bar the other day. He has been with me on some of my burger hunts. He has never been to the Village Bar. We get there after 1 pm and the small parking lot is full. We get inside and grab a table. I go up to the bar and put out order in. 2 cheeseburgers and fries. If you do make it there, sit at one of the taller tables. There are some rare collectibles under the top of the table. If you read my post about the Village Bar, you remember me talking about the seasoning. Well it is Lawry's Season Salt. I saw it with my own two eyes. This gives the juicy burger even more taste. Once again I had a great burger at the Village Bar, my brother loved it also. I will have to take him on more burger trips!!

Burger research with George Motz

2008-11-30T19:09:00.000-08:00

A week before Thanksgiving I get a email from George Motz asking if I was up for some burger research. It would be the Friday after Thanksgiving. Well of course I said yes. We were to meet in Watertown WI at a place called Zwieg's. I have been to Watertown a couple times for car shows to show off the Corvette but never to eat. It was a 40 minute drive for me but it seemed short. We were to meet at noon but I got a call from George on the way there that he was running late. So I took a little detour down to Jefferson to see if Wendl's was open. You will know it as Peterson's in Hamburger America book. Now I don't know if the shack was closed for the season but the sign said "Closed Nov. 27 & 28." Well there goes that idea of going there after Zwieg's. Wendl's is just south of Watertown in Jefferson, a short drive.

Well I get at Zwieg's about quarter after 12. I walk in and take a seat in front of the griddle. I like to see the action. I have to wait a few minutes for George so I just sit back and observe what takes place at the griddle and the people inside. For one thing I could not believe the amount of "To Go" orders. I swear every 5 minutes a person came to pick an order up. The one thing I did notice was the waitress/cook knew everyone by name. You be walking in the door and she would be putting your order on the bar and say hi then tell you the total.

George walks in with an arm full of cameras, equipment and the book. He takes and seat to my left. We say hi and he puts his stuff on the bar. He tells me he followed a truck with a deer on the back. I laugh, "It is deer season here." I say. By this time Glen and Mary Zwieg have come over to say hi. After the introduction George goes right to work. Asking questions about this, about that. He look liked a seasoned journalist asking questions and writing down notes. Mary answered most of the questions, Glen felt comfortable at the griddle. I learn a lot about the place but I won't get into it ....Top Secret stuff you know. It may be in revised edition of George's book.

Well he gets his information he needs. Now it is time to order. I order a double cheeseburger with fried onions. George does the same. George is still writing his notes but still observing what is going on. I point out the our sliced onion is put on the patty as it is on the griddle. Then it is flipped to finish the burger and onions. Sort of like El Reno in Oklahoma, which I have never been to but I read it in Hamburger America and remember that!!

Our burgers arrive and George takes out his cameras. He gets a white piece of paper, in this case wax paper for lighting, and holds it to the side of the burger. So I sit there waiting. He takes picture after picture, telling me "Just a few more Todd." Then he says "OK done." I reach forward, grab my burger and take a bite. You will notice the onions right away but the flavor of the beef really comes through. We have our burger down in no time flat. While listening to the questions that George had ask I learn that the beef had arrived fresh no more then 20 minutes. Talk about fresh beef. After finishing we start to pack up but George tells me this is where you can get some good nuggets of info. The last 5 minutes of research for him is where some of the good stuff happens. Like I said I will leave that to his book!!

We go outside and take some pictures of the place (pictured above.) I don't know how many pictures he took that visit but it was a lot. Next we are off to Lake Mills. A quick 15 minute drive. I follow him down a two lane highway. We get behind a car doing lets say 45 in a 55. Well that slows us down. It was a hilly, curvy highway, so passing was going to be hard. Well when George got his opening to pass he did, legally of course. Must have been the NASCAR fan in him haha.

We get to American Legion Post 67 in Lake Mills. He points there it is. This place is small I thought he was pointing next to the diner next door. Post 67 is only open on Fridays during the summer months. George takes some photos and points out that this is Hamburger America and that two of the smallest places in his book are just miles apart. Wendl's in Jefferson the other.

Had a really fun day and learn a lot watching George. Now if I can learn more about photography all will be good!!

To read George's Blog of the day click here Wisconsin Burger Research

Five Guys again.

2008-11-30T18:41:00.000-08:00

This event happen Nov. 18th 08'

Well I said I go back to Five Guys and I did. I was in Madison for my Corvette Club meeting. I was early so to kill some time I went to Five Guys. This time I ordered a Double Bacon Cheeseburger with fried onions. I got there about 5 pm. There were about 5 people already seated with about 4 others waiting for there order. I joined the people waiting off to the side and snacked on some peanuts while I waited, which can be addictive. Once I got my burger there must have been additional 3 in line and more coming in. I took my seat at a side bar and read some of the articles on the wall. I happen to look across the street. There was a KFC/Taco Bell. Combine I don't think there were 6 people eating. At Five Guys it was getting busy. Once again another hot, good burger. If you have one near you, you know. If you have never been to one, get to one.

Three Burgers in a Day, "Burp"

2008-11-22T11:16:00.000-08:00

This event happen Nov. 8th 2008

Blue Moon Bar & Grill
2535 University Avenue
Madison, WI 53705
608-233-0441

I have gone on a Burger Trip before but that was over a couple days. Well that cloudy day I was on a mission to put down three of the Best Burgers in Madison.

The first stop was Blue Moon Bar and Grill. I have ate burgers a couple of times at The Blue Moon. I don't know how many burgers they serve in a week but it has to be a good number. I have learn from doing this blog, I have to work on my reporting skills to ask more questions to the owners/cooks!!! I should have taken a picture of the grill area. Two fryers only and a small griddle. With such a small grill area you may be surprised that Blue Moon is always up there with the other Best Burger in Madison (Dotty's, Plaza for example)

I order a "Best in Town Burger," with name like that I can't go wrong correct!! I add cheese and get a beer. I order it medium. I always feel sorry for people who order their burger well done. I would guess the burger is about 7-8 oz. I sit and make small talk with people around me at the bar. The Badger football game is on, so that is most of the talk.

I get my burger in a basket with dill pickle spears (pictured.) I don't add anything, no Ketchup or Mustard. I am trying to wean myself off Ketchup. Don't want to cover the flavor of my burger. Learn that from Louis Lunch spot in Hamburger America. Ketchup is such a strong flavor. Mustard I will do now and then. I take a couple bites. Nicely cooked, crispy on the outside, juicy with some pink in the middle. Tip my hat off to the cook!! Ordered it medium, got it medium. The bun is big and is like a kaiser bun but not hard. I have my burger done in minutes. Want to order another but doing other burgers later in the day.

Now Dotty's gets all the praise in Madison but The Blue Moon is not far behind. If you do make it there, Blue Moon makes good Chili also.

After eating a burger at Blue Moon, my plan was to go do a Plaza Burger and then go to Dotty's. I have had both burgers before and have talked about them here on my blog. It is just after 2 pm when I get to the Plaza. The Plaza Tavern is doing good business. I order a Plaza Burger and a glass of Point Beer. I think I got an extra helping of Plaza sauce on this order. It was extra messy!!! I won't go into detail about the burger I have done that before, Plaza Burger. All I will say it hit the spot.

I walk past Five Guys on my way to Dotty's. I want to go in but I am sticking to my plan. I get to Dotty's in no time, about a five minute walk. It is packed at Dotty's. I even had a hard time finding a seat at the bar. I do find a seat and order a "Classic Burger" with cheese. Jeff Stanely the owner is at the end of the bar. He is watching the Badger game. I have not talked or seen Jeff since George Motz was at Dotty's for the book tour. Before I know it he is gone... His daughter is there also, working. Rachael is busy but she makes time to talk to me. She knows I am a burger nut from other chats. Like I wrote before... Dotty's.... Rachael makes a trip to Dotty's enjoyable. I always like chatting with her, when she is not busy!!!

My burger arrives quicker then I thought it would with the size of the crowd. I am still wondering after my first bite if I can finish this burger after having two others. Well after a few other bites I realize I can. It is good and there is a reason it is a top burger in Madison. That was the KO punch though. When I got home later I did fall asleep for a couple hours.

So there you go, I did the three Burger spots that get the most word of mouth in Madison.....in one day!!! So which one is best????? Well here is my answer, opinion

Each one is best in its own way. Oh I am dodging the question, no wait. The Plaza Burger to me is a Specialty Burger, special sauce. The burger at Dotty's is on a open flame, which is not that common. Blue Moon is the traditional flat griddle. Also each experience is different each time I visit. For one you get a different cook sometimes at these places, which makes a difference. If you do need a true answer I would say Blue Moon was the best that day...maybe because it was my first one of the day!!!!

Cheeseburger in Paradise

2008-11-22T10:57:00.000-08:00

Back in Oct. I went to Cheeseburger in Paradise. I had set up a get together with some guys from my Corvette Club, Mad City Vettes. The beer was good, cold and it was fun to talk to the guys. The Cheeseburger on the other hand was a let down. I think I liked the fries better. I just did not like it. It was one of those burgers where the bun is better then the burger, which is not good. I go there to socialize and down some beers but not order a burger. The other guys liked their meal, nobody else had a burger though. The Cuban Sandwich looked really good. Go to Cheeseburger in Paradise as a group and have fun but stay away from the burger. You think if you had a name like "Cheeseburger" you make a good one.... wrong!!

The Village Bar & Main Depot

2008-11-02T11:15:00.000-08:00

The Village Bar 3801 Mineral Point Rd. Madison WI 608-233-9956

Once again I am going off Doug Moe's list of places to get a good Burger in Madison WI. My first stop is The Village Bar. It is a small place, probably seat a dozen at the bar and about a half dozen tables. This bar was made famous when a cabbie took Jerry Seinfeld here when he asked about a good burger. Now my cook/bartender is Nick. He made my visit to the Village Bar enjoyable. I order a Cheeseburger and a beer. Nick walks over puts my patty on the griddle, adds some seasoning. Turns around to make small talk with me again. Within a couple short minutes it is flipped, cheese added and my bun thrown on the griddle to warm it. Ta Da that simple. It comes on a small paper plate, no fancy china here. I really like the seasoning of this burger. It reminds my of a Lawry's season salt. Which it maybe I could not tell. They get their burger from Sentry's Grocery store, ground that day I do not know but they are not frozen patties. I had a nice time there and the burger hit the spot. When you sit at the bar you can see a local golf course and the people chasing a little white ball. I will have to get back to the Village Bar and talk with the bartenders again and have a burger.

Main Depot 627 W. Main St. Madison WI 608-257-3100

Ok this place is a typical tavern in a small town in WI. The only thing is this in a city of 250,000. Just think back to 80 yrs ago. The griddle is small, the decor is awesome. Take a look at the ceiling, decorative molding from way back. The beer is cold but pricey for a small bar. I got there @ 1 pm and ordered a Cheeseburger and fries. I hear the burger hit the griddle. A little butter on the bun and it also goes on the griddle. The bun is the star of this burger. Think Brat Bun but shaped as a Hamburger Bun. The burger was OK, nothing to cheer about. That is why I said the Bun was the star. Always a bad sign. I would not put the burger in the Top Ten of Madison Places for a burger. I know there has to be better ones out there then this one.

Now the tavern itself is great. If you go make sure you take in everything. A lot of nick knacks and UW-Badger stuff. I could see coming here for a cold brew before going to a Badger game. The Kohl Center is just a few blocks away.

The picture on the left is the Village Bar, the right Main Depot.

Sweeney's Oakcrest Tavern

2008-10-21T20:37:00.000-07:00

This event happen on Labor Day Sept. 1st 08'

Sweeney's Oakcrest Tavern
5371 Old Middleton Rd, Madison, WI 53705 608-233-1243

Going off Doug Moe's article I went to the Oakcrest Tavern. The Oakcrest was slow when I got there, which was good. There was about 9 people counting myself. The Burger here is Char-grilled, which I like. Some people do not. The beef comes from Knoche Food Center. Lets say a local Butcher. Local... it is across the street!! The patty is made from steak trimmings and ground daily. The Burger comes on a whole wheat bun and your typical choices.

I order a Cheeseburger and small fry, with a Coke. I don't make any small talk with anyone, which is rare for me!! I just look over my notes from other Burger Joints. Yes I do take notes while I am at a place. I may not be the best blogger but hey I take notes!!! Trust me you do forget things.

My Burger comes and you can see the juices bleeding into the bun!! Look at the picture, that is not ketchup!!! I ordered it medium and it came that way. The Burger did not WOW me but it still it was good. Now if I remember right fresh ground patties will almost have a pebble like structure when cooked. (George if you read this send me a heads up if I am right!!) Well this burger did have that, tender and fell apart easy. Overall a good burger but like I said it did not WOW me.

Stadium Sports Bar & Eatery

2008-10-21T20:04:00.000-07:00

This event happen on Sept. 13th 08'

Stadium Sports Bar & Eatery
1419 Monroe St. Madison WI 53711
608-256-2544

To start it is a 7 oz. fresh ground patty, on a whole wheat bun. Busy for 3 pm on a Saturday. The Badgers Football game is a late game, what gives?? Ohhhh Badger Volleyball crowd is here. I learn there is a tourney at the Field house. I order a Build Your Own. What I ordered is simple, a 7oz patty with american cheese, small fry and a beer.

Being a Bar Manager I make small talk with my bartender. Well she is going to Italy for 10 days, Western to be exact. Florence is one stop for her. I will have to see if I can catch her here again and see how it went. The Burger comes and I can tell it is cooked to how I ordered, medium rare. I can see the juices pooling on the Burger. How can I see the juices if I ordered a cheeseburger. Well the cheese is faceing the bottom bun. The whole wheat bun comes with..... it looks like a sesame seed bun on Barry Bond Juice. The first bite reminds me of the Burger at the Plaza minus the sauce, juicey and tender. All I added was yellow mustard and pickle slices. The pickles slices have a good kick!! This is a good Burger, I'd pick this over the Oakcrest Burger.

The atmosphere is great. Sports Bar with 25 + TV's! Oh don't come on a Badger Football Saturday. It is called Stadium Sports Bar for well being next to a stadium, Camp Randall. This place is packed on football Saturdays.

My Five Guys visit.

2008-10-03T19:51:00.000-07:00

Aug. 19th 2008

Now I have known Five Guys was in Madison WI but have never gone to it. Well after learning that Five Guys is popping up every where, I decided to go. Five Guys in Madison is on State Street. A street well known in Madison. It is lined with Apts, shops etc... It is also next to the UW-Madison. You could spend a whole day people watching. Which I was doing, that is why I walked right by Five Guys. Ok I walked one block pass it. "Oh well." I thought to myself. "I can always go over to the Plaza Tavern for a burger." A quick back track and I was back at Five Guys. First thing you will notice once inside is the red/white decor of the place. It was 2 pm so I missed the lunch rush, which I always try to do. I ordered a Cheeseburger and a Coke. Which is a double patty with cheese. I also got fried onions on it (Just look at the picture!!) My customer number is #1. I am saving that receipt. I am not the first of the day but having #1 makes me special right!!

My wait is 3-4 minutes. I read some of the articles that hang on the wall. I could also munch on peanuts... in shell. My number is call "Number One." I grab a seat along a side bar. I open my brown bag and open the foil around my burger. My first bite.... Wooooo this thing is juicy, messy and HOT!!! The burger is dripping with cheese and onions. Once again look at the picture!! The taste reminded me of something almost like Mom would make in the skillet for me when I was a kid. That is always a good sign...Burger Flashbacks!! I had one with the Butter Burger also. I have to comeback to try others here.

If you get to the Madison location, try to sit at the bar by the front window. That way you can people watch. Did I mention the UW-Madison is right next door!! I love summer!

The Great Burger Road Trip Day 2 Cont.

2008-09-28T14:41:00.000-07:00

Aug. 5th afternoon. Well I get up to Green Bay about 1 pm. I have a room about a 1/2 mile from Lambeau Field. I have my lead from Glenn to try a burger joint. He told me to try Kroll's. Well there is one downtown Green Bay and one next to Lambeau Field on the West side of the stadium. I go to Kroll's West by the Stadium, no burger though I want a Beer! I have a few pints and watch the circus that is Brett Favre and the Packers on the news. I then head over to Training Camp. I will not go into detail but any football fan should visit Lambeau Field. As pictured above is Donald Driver taking a ride on a kids bike to practice. One of the traditions of training camp is players riding bikes to practice. So I take in the camp and the other events of Training Camp. Around 6 pm I go to the Stadium View Bar and Grill that is East of the Stadium. I go there most the time if I am at a Packers game but have never ordered food. I have a beer and order my burger and fries. I order it medium rare, "Sorry" the Bartender goes " All orders are cooked medium well." I say "Fine." My burger arrives and it is the driest thing I have every ate. I should have said no to the burger when they told me how well it was going to be done. The bun was the star of this burger. Now I would still go to the Stadium View for the drinks and atmosphere of a game day but I will never have a burger there again. Off to my hotel and fall asleep to a John Wayne Western on TV.

The next day I am up early to catch a Packers practice. I kill time till 11 am when Curly's Pub opens inside Lambeau. Well I get there and check the prices for a burger.... Ahh no when you have to pay $10 for a burger forget it. I then head across to Kroll's West. I order and Burger and a Cheeseburger. I like to compare the two sometimes, if I have room. The roll is toasted and they also put butter on there burgers. Lets say it does not come close to the Butter Burger at Solly's. You can taste the butter....barely. I should have listen Glenn and gone to the one East of Lambeau in downtown Green Bay. Live and learn I guess.

Off to home. I am burgered out!! No burgers for me thank you, for awhile anyway. The whole trip was about 350 miles. Less then what was planned thank God. Was going to do Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay and the Twin Cities. Glad I listen to that little voice in my head!!

Overall a great time. Met Glenn and got to visit Lambeau Field. Still many adventures to come.

The Great Burger Road Trip Day 2

2008-09-13T10:25:00.001-07:00

Aug. 5th 08'

Tuesday morning up at 7 am, turn on Sportcenter to see what I missed on the Brett /Green Bay Soap Opera. Solly's opens at 6 am on Tuesdays for breakfast and I want to catch Glenn at work. I have missed him twice!! A quick 1 mile drive down the road and I am there. It is close to 9 am and there are about 12 cars in the parking lot. I take a picture of the building (used in previous post) and head inside. There about 15 people at the horseshoe counter. I go to my left to see the grill and who is running the show.... The one and only Glenn Fieber!! Now the omelets and other breakfast goodies look good. He is even putting that good old Wisconsin Butter on the hash browns ( Mental note, get here for breakfast.) The waitress comes up and I ask "Is it too early for a Burger?!?" (I know the answer) "No" she goes. I order a Butter Burger without. "Cheese?" she asks. "Sure" I say. By now people are leaving and saying good-bye to Glenn. He knows everyone by name!

I introduce myself and shake hands. Then he puts on his gloves back on and goes back to working the grill. Ahhhhh but there is small talk between us. Where I am from? What Burgers I have tried? Are you going to the State Fair? I tell him I am going up to Green Bay for Packers Training Camp. He tells me to try Kroll's, east of Lambeau Field. What a guy he gives me a lead!!

My Butter Burger arrives and I take a picture. The Butter Burger is not a good model. George even told me it is a hard burger to take pictures of. So sorry no pictures yet of the Butter Burger....yet!. I eat one half of the burger in seconds. Once you have one you will know why it disappears so fast. Glenn asks "How was it?" I say "Great, I could eat another!" "Good to hear." he goes. I sit there with my Coke and read the local paper. People are leaving again and Glenn says bye to all by name. He takes time from the grill to sign my Hamburger America book and to have his picture taken by me.

I finish my Coke and leave $$ from my bill. "Hold on" Glenn goes. "I have another Butter Burger for you, on the house." The Man himself, The King of Butter Burgers gives me "one on the house!!!" "To go?" he asks. "No, I will eat it here." Mmmmmm Butter Burger.... I did make a mess this time. Some butter dripped onto my left lap. I get up and I thank Glenn. He calls me by name as I leave, thanking me and to come again. People like Glenn is what makes Burger Joints special. Cares for the product but even more cares about his customers.

Off to Green Bay!!!

The Great Burger Road Trip Day 1

2008-09-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

This event happen Monday Aug. 4th 08'

My first Burger Road trip. I was planning on doing Chicago, Milwaukee and the Twin Cities. After some thought I just stayed in the State of Wisconsin. Anyway I was down in the Chicago area a few days earlier for a Corvette Show so once a year is enough for me! I started out heading east from Madison on I94 towards Milwaukee. It was close to 5 pm and I wanted to try to hit Milwaukee after rush hour. So a quick jaunt down Hwy 26 to Jefferson. I was going to Jefferson to visit Wedl's (known as Peterson's in the book Hamburger America.) Hwy 18 in downtown Jefferson was under construction, so I parked on a side street and walked over. Wedl's looks like a house but notice the red shack, yes it is red now. I walk up to the shack, the girls were inside the main building cooling off. They quickly came out and stepped inside the shack. I ordered a Double w/onions and a Pepsi. I swear it was only two minutes and I had my burger. I put some pickles slices, yellow mustard and some ketchup on the burger. I have had Wedl's before, plain. I would do that again. Skip the condiments or just go with pickles. I think the strong taste from the mustard and ketchup masked the peppery taste. My first bite... wow was it hot. I had to pop open my Pepsi and take a drink. Juicy Burger... I had to check myself for drips and stains. Oops there goes a onion on to my shirt then hits the ground. I am sitting on the bench along side the east side of the main building, shack side. I look around to see if anyone saw me make a mess. Nope, just a mom and her kid waiting for their order. I finish my burger and walk back to my car. That hit the spot I think to myself. I drive back to I94 and head east again toward Milwaukee.

I get to Glendale and find a hotel 1 mile from Solly's Grille. Well first my GPS tells me to make a U turn at a busy intersection, which I don't. Bad move on my part, I am now on a on ramp back to I43 North. Well a 2 minute delay and I get myself back to the hotel I want to stay at. I go all out... a Suite with a Jacuzzi!!! I get settle into my Suite. Now it is time to find a Bar. I am a Wisconsinite you know. When I read the review of the hotel online, someone said that the hotel I was at was in walking distance of shopping, food etc.... Well I walked around the area. I even got in my car and drove around. I could not find a Bar!!! This is a Burb' of Milwaukee com'on! Sure there was shopping and food but no Bar. Well back to my room. I get into my swimsuit and jump in the pool. I do some laps to work off the Burger I had at Wedl's. After 20 mins. or so I go back to my room and fill up the Jacuzzi up. Ahhhhhhhhh.... George must live like this all the time on the road. Ha Ha Ha!! Off to bed dreaming of what tomorrow will bring me... A Butter Burger from Solly's.

Hamburger America Book Tour

2008-09-01T08:12:00.000-07:00

This event happen on Saturday night May 10th 08'

Well the "Big Cheese" was in Madison WI. Yep George Motz himself was at Dotty's Dumplings Dowry for his Book Tour. I must have gotten there about an hr before his arrival. I was not in the mood for a burger for some odd reason, so I just ordered some Deep Fried Cheese Curds. I also had a few pints of brew. Another fan was there also. He had a Hamburger America DVD. We chatted a bit about burgers etc... Jeff Stanely the owner was also there along with a few friends of his. One was an actor from New York. He was in the area to film a new Johnny Depp movie. We chatted about burgers, mostly I wanted to know about NY burgers. He mentioned the Corner Bistro. I had him sign his name to pg 170, which is about the Corner Bistro. I also got to talk to Jeff. We talked a bit and then he signed my book. I think he was amazed at all the signatures I had gotten.

It was then time to talk to George. I think we started talking about Bud's Bar in CO first. I lived 20 minutes from Bud's when I worked for the US Forest Service as a summer job during college. We also talked a bit about Corvettes and NASCAR, blogging and taking pictures. He agreed with me that the Butter Burger is not an easy burger to photograph. By this time people coming in to eat were coming up buying a book and chatting a bit. I myself must have talked to a half dozen people about burgers. I was having so much fun I almost forgot to ask George to sign my book. Now I have most people sign in the back of the book. George's is up front and unique. I will have to post a picture...maybe.

If you want to read more about George's weekend in the Midwest, you can click here: Book Tour Days 9-11

The Holy Grail... The Butter Burger

2008-08-23T10:29:00.000-07:00

This event happen on May 4th 08'

Solly's Grille (pg. 296-297 Hamburger America, Motz) Well I am a very lucky Guy. One of the places mentioned in the Documentary Film Hamburger America is just a hour + drive for me. Solly's Grille is in Glendale WI, a burb' of Milwaukee. A chance to use my new GPS Garmin. I am glad George but addresses in his book!! My Garmin got me to Solly's with no problems, even the arrival time was right on the money.

The first thing you will notice is the yellow horseshoe counter. I take my seat at the counter. Now I try to get to places after their lunch rush, so I get there at 1 pm. There are about 6-8 customers counting myself. Once again I go on what my Hamburger Bible (Hamburger America) says.... I order a Butter Burger "without." That is no stewed onions. I also get a Coke and a side of fries. A couple is to my right a few stools down. She is eating a Butter Burger. He is eating a Cheesehead. The Cheesehead burger has grilled mushrooms, stewed and raw onions, swiss, american cheese. I got full just looking at it!! There is a good picture on Solly's website in the gallery section. Speaking of pictures.... The Butter Burger is a tough model to take pictures of. So sorry no pics of the Butter Buger, yet.

Well within a few minutes my order arrives. Just like the picture in the book. Cut in half on a small white plate. I take a bite.....................

Have you ever ate food that takes you back to a time when you were younger. Well this bite did!! I thought of my grandmother's cooking, real butter with everything she made. By the time I come out of my hypnotic trance, I have one of the halves gone already. Let me tell you something. BURGER LOVERS MUST EAT THIS BURGER!!! It is soooooo good you will want another one, which I did. "Another Butter Burger please." "This time with stewed onions." Again the first bite is heaven. You wonder if you have to eat fast because the butter is melting, which is a good thing. Lets just say you don't have to scarf it down to avoid a mess. Oh you will clean your plate. Save some of the burger to wipe the plate clean!

I have my book to for the owner Glenn Fieber to sign. Bad luck again for me, Glenn is not there. The waitress says he will be in on Tuesday. Well I have her sign my book anyway. I tell her I will drive the hour + to catch Glenn. The waitress tells me about a guy that takes a train up from Chicago once a month to get a sack full of Butter Burgers. Well having the book makes customers around me ask questions about the book and the film. I sit and talk with them for awhile.

Fast forward to Tuesday May 6th. I get there about the same time as I did on Sunday. Glenn is already gone!!!! Oh well " A Butter Burger without and a Coke please." As I wait customers again ask me about my book I have with me. One of the customers is a 80 year old woman. She has been eating at Solly's since she was 15 yrs old. The customers and I talk burgers. They tell me about other places to try around the area. What a fun time and a great burger. I can't wait to have another one. Like I said any burger lover or fan on Hamburger America should visit Solly's Grille!

On the drive home I took a side trip to Jefferson WI to go to Peterson's (pg. 294-296 Hamburger America, Motz) I get there and the name is now Wendl's. The Peterson's sold it to the Wendl's in 07'. Two young men are inside, one is Robert Wendl. He is the one in pictured in the shack on pg. 295. I order a single to go. While I wait I have Robert sign my book. I get my burger and walk with my brown paper bag back to my car. I take a seat in my car and take a bite. George hit it on the head when describing the taste... Peppery. I like pepper and this was not too much for me. I finish the burger in no time, which means I love it.

What a great day!! I missed Glenn at Solly's but I had a Butter Burger plus a Single from Wendl's. Life is Good!

Dotty's Dumplings Dowry

2008-08-22T19:04:00.000-07:00

This event happen April 15th 08'

On the hunt for Burgers..... On my list Dotty's Dumpling Dowry in Madison WI. (pg. 291-292, Hamburger America, Motz) I have lived in the Madison area for most of my life. Never have I had a burger from Dotty's. Heck I probably have driven by it 100 times. Well it is April here in WI. Cool, windy and I am wishing it was June. First thing you will notice about Dotty's is the interior design of this place. From stained glass windows, to model aircraft. If you look above the Bar you feel like you are at a flea market. I take a seat at the bar and order a beer first. Yeah the big guys of beer are on tap, Bud and Miller. Take a closer look, Dotty's has 20+ taps.... so man up and try a different beer here. I went with Hoppalicious (from Ale Asylum a local Brew House.) I then ordered my burger. The "Build Your Own." I just added mustard, pickles with a side of Fries. Just a heads up.... The serving of Cheese Curds are a meal by itself at Dotty's, like most places in Wisconsin. Now the Burger is grilled on an open flame. I order my medium (which is the standard practice here.)

I get my burger. Now I work at a Bar that serves "Flamed Grilled" burgers, so I like the taste a "Flame" gives a burger. The burger was good, you could tell it was fresh down to the bun. I have had bad burgers and I left happy from Dotty's.

Once again I have my Hamburger America book with me. Jeff Stanely the owner is not there to sign my book bummer right. Well I do get someone to sign it though...... Jeff's daughter Rachael. This opens up a conversation about burgers and the bar business. Rachael is one reason I would go back to Dotty's. She knows her stuff and is a people person. This place has been voted "Best in Madison" over 20 times by readers of Madison Magazine and Isthmus-Daily Page. I can see why...not just the good burger but the place makes you feel like you are visiting a good friend.

My first Subject.... The Plaza Burger!

2008-08-12T14:02:00.000-07:00

This event happen on Tuesday April 4th 2008.

Subject: The Plaza Burger @ The Plaza Tavern, Madison WI

Just about a little after 1 pm I entered The Plaza Tavern. The Bar was full with about 4-5 booths full also. The reason...well the Burger and the Brewers were on. It is opening day and Bill Hall just hit a 2 run HR. I have my Hamburger America book, which I just purchase a a few days ago. Going on what George Motz order in the book, I did the same. The Plaza Burger and Deep Fried Cheese Curds. Within minutes I have it. It is cut in half. The first bite you are thinking hamburger then the sauce hits your taste buds! Tangy is a good word. It is strong but not overbearing. I am wondering where my burger has gone. I finished it that fast. It is that good. I should have not ordered the the Curds, I could have saved room for another Plaza Burger.

The Staff notices I have the Hamburger America book on the bar. "Cool." one of the waitress goes. Dean Hetue the owner is working. He comes over... "I thought it came out later in the month!?!?" He is grinning ear to ear. I ask if he would sign my book.... and he does. I let him read about his place (pg. 292-294 Hamburger America, Motz) His first words are "Good they gave Mary credit for the sauce." He is still smiling. I ask when George was in. "He was in about a year ago." Dean says. We chat a bit about Doug Moe's article in the Wisconsin State Journal. Which I missed... but with the internet you can find everything... You will find the article under the Burger Links section.

I will be back for a Plaza Burger, no curds next time I want to save room!

Side note- You will use your burger to clean the sauce off the plate.

My first Blog Post!

2008-08-07T20:05:00.000-07:00

Well I did it. I started a blog. What am I thinking. I have to put time into this thing!!! I have to learn my way around the system. So that means I have to learn how to add, delete, copy/cut/paste, links, hyper text..... So be patient with me as I point and click to learn how to make this blog. The layout (colors) are suppose to remind you of a hamburger. Bun, lettuce and burger. The text makes the grill marks and the color red and yellow.... Well of course ketcup and mustard. Ok maybe I point and clicked too much on how to use this. Now the subject matter for this blog will be Hamburgers or Burgers for short. You will see why I picked that subject and who, what influences my love for Burgers. Buckle up it should be a fun ride.....once I figure out things!!! Stay Tuned