All Photos By Gail
Do you like Burgers? I sure do. Burgers have been a bit of a Thing for a while now, so there are many different places competing for your money when you want a red meat fix. There are a few places scattered around the city that I frequent, and each does something special with the simple culinary pleasure that is the hamburger. Now, I am adding a new favorite to that list.
Canadian Burger Chain Big Smoke Burger has just opened its flagship store in Chelsea and I recently had the pleasure of being won over by their no-frills approach to creating a big, juicy burger the way you would make one to fire up on your own backyard grill.
This past Sunday, July 13th, Big Smoke Burger held a private event in their new home on 7th Avenue, at which owner Anthony Fauci pledged a $20 donation for every person in the door from 6-10 PM. All proceeds went to The National Urban Technology Center and the Legacy School for Integrated Studies, located on West 14th Street, to help to transform young lives through the use of technology. So, good burgers for a good cause, woo!
During the fun evening, guests were invited to sample a full range of Big Smoke’s delicious sandwiches and sides, which include first rate hand-cut fries and also Poutine – a Canadian specialty similar to NYC’s own Disco Fries – which adds cheese curds and brown gravy atop a generous portion of fries. These indulgent fries are a meal on their own and are sure to win lots of fans!
The trays of fresh-from-the-grill burgers made the rounds every few minutes – it was sheer burger heaven!
Big Smoke’s menu is divided into a Classic Burgers section featuring Cheese and Double Cheese Burgers, Veggie Burgers and Grilled Chicken Breast Burgers, and Signature Burgers, including the namesake Big Smoke Burger, dressed with Lettuce, tomato, caramelized onions, smoked cheddar cheese and horseradish mayo, which you see pictured above. This burger is amazing, so flavorful and juicy with fresh toppings. Plus, look how huge it is! A fresh Lamb Burger topped with Cilantro Feta spread is also on the menu and many other burgers include toppings such as goat cheese, roasted red peppers, avocado, sautéed mushrooms and variety of delicious mayonnaise-based sauces.
And who could resist a shot of one of Big Smoke Burger’s fresh and luscious Milkshakes? Not this girl!
Outdoor Patio Coming Soon
There’s lots of room to dine in at communal tables and even a small bar, and the restaurant also has 880 square feet of outdoor space which should be open as a partially covered patio by fall 2014.
Meet King
Service is also friendly, quick and personal, which is important and very much appreciated! One of our servers at Sunday’s event was King, who was all about friendly service. Thanks King, I hope to see you again on my next visit!
Update: Sadly, Big Smoke Burger Has Closed for Business.
