Quick Bites: Burgers

Is there any fast food more omnipresent than the hamburger? Well, maybe pizza, but not by much. As to who invented it, that remains a mystery. We do know that the first burger chain was White Castle (they say it was invented by German cook Otto Kause in 1891), followed by Big Boy and then McDonald’s. Regardless, here are a few of the best – and most unusual – in town.

Vinya Table

Surprisingly one of our favorite burgers in the Gables, this wine hotspot’s signature Vinya Burger ($24) is juicy, saucy, and luxuriously flavored. With bread sourced locally from Sullivan St. Bakery, you’re already off to a good start. Then, you add American Wagyu meat from Meat ‘n Bone, aged Gouda, bacon, caramelized onions, and truffle aioli, and you’re in burger heaven. Be sure to eat over your plate – this one drips.

266 Miracle Mile.
305.203.4229
vinyawine.com

PINCHO

Two fried plantains serve as the buns for this blistering concoction, aptly named the Toston Burger ($9.49), and which came out so warm and fresh we almost burned our fingers on it (well worth it). The sticky Provolone cheese is a nice addition to a well-seasoned patty which stands out in the flavor category. Lettuce, tomato, and cilantro sauce round out this specialty creation. If you like tostones, this is the burger for you.

30 Giralda Ave.
305.446.5666
pincho.com

Bay 13 Brewery + Kitchen

What makes the Bay 13 Lamb Burger ($20) special is the patty itself, which is made in-house from – you guessed it – lamb instead of beef. Topped with arugula, tomato, red onions, and a sauce made from feta cheese and dill, the overall flavor profile is almost Mediterranean, with just the right amount of spice. It also comes with a side of crispy French fries and garlic aioli for dipping.

65 Alhambra Plaza
786.452.0935
bay13brewery.com

TAP 42

The iconic Prohibition Burger ($18.50) at Tap 42 is made from a special burger blend and topped with Tap 42’s secret sauce. While we prefer our bacon a tad crispier, the fluffy buns, white cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onions piled on make this a meal you’ll have to unclench your jaw to consume. And on Mondays, it’s halfprice from 4 to 11 pm.

301 Giralda Ave
786.391.1566
tap42.com

THE BAR

The Bar’s signature “The Bar Burger” ($14) embodies the restaurant’s simplicity: a sesame seed bun, lettuce, tomato, red onion, and the humble quarter-pound beef patty. That means no cheese and no secret sauce (although mayo and ketchup came on the side). The show happens almost entirely in the patty. Juicy and flavorful, it rivals the taste of restaurant steak. The red onion complements the rich, hearty taste of the patty with a satisfying crunch alongside the lettuce and tomato.

172 Giralda Ave
305.442.2730
@thebargables

Explore our other Quick Bites for the best local spots in Coral Gables!