PS We Ate You: 2013 Burger Cup Burgers

Every month, we like to shine a spotlight on the most delicious dishes we've stumbled upon recently. In preparation for the next round of the Beijinger Burger Cup 2013, we’ve been eating only burgers. Here's a review of what we loved.

blue cheese Portobello burger
The Big Smoke Bistro, RMB 68
A half-carnivorous, half-vegetarian split, this burger contains a cheese-coated mushroom on one side and a beef patty on the other. The standard lettuce and tomato accompany, along with a bright spot of chipotle mayonnaise, all on a sesame seed bun. Truffle oil French fries round out an already satisfactory plate.

dry rub avocado burger
The Local, RMB 75
Juicy, spicy and fortified with half of a ripe avocado, plus lots of house salsa piled on. The fixings are plentiful with onion, tomato, pickles and a slice of cheese. Onion rings are a welcome change from the usual fries and these leave
nothing to be desired – crispy, but not greasy.

Frost burger
Back Alley Bistro, RMB 42
Served on something more akin to an English muffin than your standard bun, this burger has a true homemade feel. With standard fixings on the side and ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise in squeeze bottles, it immediately evokes memories of backyard barbecues.

cheeseburger
Rumi, RMB 85
Promising cheese, sautéed mushrooms, onions and French fries, from the first bite it delivers and continues to impress with each subsequent mouthful. The thick, doughy bread plays a fine supporting role, holding things together and allowing you to enjoy the meat. There’s just enough moisture to keep you happy.

the original burger
Let’s Burger Plus, RMB 68
The beef patty comes on a toasted bun with organic lettuce, tomato, onion and pickles. The meat is juicy, the garnishes fresh and crispy and the bun is pre-smeared with a bit of mayonnaise and ketchup. Fries are extra, but of the thick, steak-cut variety, a rare treat in this town.

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Photo: Amy Jiang