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QSR Magazine Column
Given that prime-grade beef, usually only found at steakhouses, is piling up in Sam’s Clubs, it shouldn’t be surprising that burger innovations are taking center stage these days.
Hardee’s shrank its Thickburger several months ago but Burger King recently introduced miniaturized Burger “shots,” more in line with the mini burgers now common at casual dine restaurants like Ruby Tuesday’s, TGIFriday’s, and Chili’s.
Then, just this week, BK opened its first of many Whopper Bars at Universal Studios Theme Park in Orlando, where burger lovers can custom-build their burgers with a choice of 22 toppings.
Recent months have also seen the opening of chef-run burger joints. TV personality (oh yes, and chef) Bobby Flay opened two Bobby’s Burger Palaces in New York and New Jersey, and Chicago Chef Michael Kornick is getting ready to open a new burger bar concept despite the economy, and despite the fact that several other celebrity chefs have opened burger concepts of their own around the country in recent years (and despite the fact there are already tens of thousands of burger joints throughout the country).
America may cut back on steak, but we will never abandon the burger, right?
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2 Comments to 'Burgers: The New Bailout Package'
March 18, 2009
Just went to Apple Pan in LA yesterday. A cult place near Hollywood that’s been open for decades. Counter seating only with limited menu of burgers, classic sandwiches (tuna or egg salad) and pie. Sitting at the counter with my colleagues, I felt transported out of the famouns “Nighthawks” painting. The burgers were phenomenal, but they are also known for pie. Dare I say, “Pie is the new depression food!” Two pie shops have opened within the past few months in Cgo, including Hoosier Mama. One of my friends said her little boy just request “pie” instead of a birthday cake! There’s just something so right about pie for the times…comfort.
http://www.hoosiermamapie.com/
May 29, 2009
I remember a few years ago about the Hardee’s “Thickburger” coming out. Someone likened it to Heart Disease and Cardiovascular Ailements
times three !
I’ve not had one, but always thought it interesting that Hardee’s did this, when other restaurants and fast food establishments were going “heart healthy.”
Good article.
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