BURGERIM
BRINGING THE ‘2 OR MORE IS BETTER’APPROACH

It’s a pretty much an American standard that two is always better than one when it comes to a good thing, and at Burgerim, an Israeli burger chain that has set up shop in the States, the concept is that there’s always more than one.

Burgerim is an international fast casual franchise where the gourmet mini burgers burst with flavor. The mini burgers (they don’t like to use the word “sliders”) are actually made of 2.8 oz patties and come in 11 different patty types. A single order includes at least two mini burgers and you can choose from the duo, trio or 16-pack of gourmet mini burgers. The standard Duo order comes with two mini burgers, Burgerim fries and a soft drink of $9.95.

Burgerim means “many burgers” in Hebrew and the name is fitting, but it’s not all burgers as the menu is quite vast, offering something for everyone. But let’s start with the burgers, which come with your choice of three artisanal buns: Burgerim bun, gluten-free, and whole wheat. There are six specialty sauces to choose from, including house sauce, BBQ, and spicy mayo, as well as nine freshly prepared toppings ranging from sunny-side up egg, pineapple, sautéed mushrooms, and avocado. Patty types include
dry-aged beef, Wagyu beef, salmon, veggie, lamb, and Merguez, among others. 

The lamb is a definite winner as it’s juicy while not tasting too gamey. Another favorite of mine was the veggie, go figure, which is made with green lentils, carrots, onion, tofu and breadcrumbs. The flavor was just spot-on. The Merguez (spicy beef) and the chorizo were also favorites. Other options include beef, turkey, chicken, dry aged, salmon and Wagyu. The salmon has proven very popular although I found it too fishy for my liking.

The burgers by default are cooked medium well and are actually compact patties that aren’t dry or too wet. There’s a good consistency among the patties that I tried although I did like adding sauces to the burgers, including the house BBQ sauce. I’m a sauce guy so I always like adding a little something-something.

If you’re looking for sides, the Burgerim fries are actually hearty round-cut potatoes, although the onion rings and sweet potato fries are more standard yet very tasty. Starter items include a pleasing Beef Chorizo Sausage Wrap, but it’s the chicken wings that are really dope. Choose from sweet chili sauce, BBQ sauce, crunchy garlic or buffalo sauce. Be careful as these wings come with some heat, but they’re very pleasing, especially with a cold beer.

The sandwiches are full size as there’s nothing “mini” about them, including the hearty Grilled Ribeye Sandwich, and the Crispy Chicken Sandwich. The salads are also oversized and can be a meal on their own or perfect for sharing. The Basket Salad made with fresh arugula, sliced strawberries, glazed pecans, and goat cheese tossed with a raspberry vinaigrette dressing is very rich, so while it may not be the healthiest option, it is very satisfying.

According to Juan Munoz, VP of Operations, he wants customers to take away a feeling that they got their money’s worth.

“I want people to feel that they got quality and had the best experience, including customer service and the best food possible.”

Do note that Burgerim delivers and offers 50% off to all on-duty police, firemen and paramedics. With the potential of being a great neighborhood joint, it may not be a destination location for folks all over town, but if you find yourself in Hollywood, it’s worth the effort to satisfy your burger or sandwich fix. Although more locations will soon open, including Montclair and Azusa, so you won’t have to trek so far depending what part of town you call home.

Burgerim is located at 5001 Melrose Avenue. Open Sun-Wed 11am to 10pm; Thurs-Sat 11am to 12am. Takeout and delivery call 323-848-4848.

Photography Courtesy Of: Burgerim

Story by Jose Martinez