Burger Time

My best friend is coming in from out of town. He's staying at a midtown hotel, seeing some theater and wants to do some only-in-New-York things. Only problem is that he's not too adventurous and I can't imagine him wanting to explore neighborhoods like the Village or the outer boroughs. His culinary tastes are limited to fast food: burgers, fries and a coke. Where can I take my friend?

John, Chelsea

Without question you should take him to the Burger Joint at Le Parker Meridien Hotel on West 57th Street. The hotel's marble and mirrored entryway gives way to a tiny, wood-paneled joint practically hidden behind a curtain just to the right of the registration desk. The moment you move from big city elegance to small town greasy spoon is just the only-in-New-York moment you're looking for. Prices are high at most midtown restaurants, since they cater to either a business or tourist crowd. But we're talking about the Burger Joint, not DB Bistro Moderne. A cheeseburger with the works, fries and a diet coke is only $8.50. Beer, milkshakes and some damn good brownies round out the "what you see is what you get" menu.

Your friend might also be impressed by the celebrity autographs on the back wall. We noticed Jack Black's the last time we were there. Depending on your timing, you might catch a celeb signing a brick, which will definitely send your friend home happy.

Contact the author of this article or email tips@gothamist.com with further questions, comments or tips.

By Doug Gordon in Miscellaneous on June 9, 2004 11:33 PM

Comments [rss]

steven

I'm a big fan of Cozy Soup 'n' Sandwich on Astor and Broadway, though friends have touted the Jackson Hole Diner up in the 70s as the end-all be-all to burgers.

janelle

burger joint is my favorite. delicious, cheap, and so unlike midtown. definitely go there!

Jen

Two other burgers: Pastis (great great frites) and Corner Bistro (fries are okay, but the Bistro burger - cheese, bacon... - so good).

KeithS

Enthusiastically second the Burger Joint recommendation, just make sure you avoid lunch hour, where the lines into the lobby have gotten downright silly.

Another super (and significantly larger) burger is offered at Blue Smoke. It's especially fun to try different flavor combinations with the different sauces, dips, and seasonings available at the bar and every table. The Magic Dust, while not quite narcotis, is tasty stuff indeed.