Frisco Burger Inn - El Paso, TX

Frisco burger Inn, in El Paso, texas, allowed me to combine my two passions, burgers and building houses in Juarez. I decided to search out the best burger in El Paso, while on a recent trip to Juarez. El Paso is right across the border from Juarez, so it was an easy mission. After reading a few on-line blogs, I settled on Frisco Burger Inn.

Me being from the San Francisco Bay Area, where we never say "Frisco", the place had one vote in it's favor right away, just for flying in the face of convention. Located in a strip mall, in a somewhat tired looking suburb, east of town, Frisco burger sported a faded sign with a painting of the Golden Gate Bridge on it. The place was so packed, that the hostess pointed to a chair at a two person table where one chair was already taken. My table partner "Ralph" was friendly and recommended the double-meat cheeseburger ($5.49). I got the basket which includes fries ($6.49). I wanted onion rings ($1.70), but Ralph had gotten the last basket of the day. Despite my hints, he didn't offer me a taste. They were also out of milk-shakes ($1.90) and ($2.49).

The table was black laminate top and it was teamed with red sparkly naugahyde chairs. Ralph and I discussed his favorite restaurants in Juarez and my food quickly came. The fries were medium thick, skinless, hot and crispy (4.5 spatulas out of 5). The burger bun was grilled on the outside, an unusual touch that worked. The beef was cooked medium and the burger was juicy. American cheese works well with this style of thin burger. It really hit the spot. I give it a solid 4 spatulas.

Ralph confirmed this was the best burger in El Paso, and judging by the throng still streamimg in when I left, most El Paso folk must agree.

Burger 4 spatulas out of 5

Fries 4.5 spatulas

Frisco Burger Inn

3111 N. Yarbrough Drive

El Paso, TX 79925

915-591-6737

Little Store - Woodside, CA - Guest Review

My good friend Joe Fantuzzi visited the little store in Woodside and had this review.

The Little Store is a historic site in Woodside California in what has now become an residential area. It may have served as a grocery store, hitching post, saloon or all of the above for travellers on buggies or horses going over the mountains to the pacific ocean. It's decor is decidedly western, with red and white checkered tableclothes, black and white photos and other items from the old west.

We had a lovely waitress that greeted us with energy and confidence. She boasted about the Little Store food in a sweet and polite way. The eclectic menu for a western fare had grilled meats and fishes, an assortment of salads, appetizers like quesidilas and burritos and of course many burger sandwich combinations. Nick ordered the Hamburger sandwich for $7.95 and I ordered the Pulled Pork sandwich for $11.95. We accompanied the meal with drinks, Nick had lemonade and Joe had a Fat Tire amber ale.

The hamburger was ordered medium rare, and came quickly with a sesame seed bun, 'best' fries, and a side of lettuce, sliced tomato, cucumber and red onions. The meat was juicy and tender, and didn't need any salt or pepper to make it perfect. Nick added ketchup on the top before sinking his teeth into it. Before 2 minutes passed, the burger was nearly gone, which is not advisable in burger eating decorum. Nick's enjoyment of the burger sans any cheese or sides other than ketchup, let's him rate the pure burger experience at a 4.5 out of 5.0.

All in all, a friendly atmosphere, family ready but with sophisticated fare for all to find the meal they wish.

John Bentley's - Redwood City

John Bentley's in Redwood City is a great place for a romantic meal. So my wife Pat and I went there for lunch on Valentine's Day. We where chatting with Zu Tarazi, our good friend and General Manager, when conversation turned to my burger blog. Being a burger connoisseur himself, Zu recommended the Grilled Angus Cheeseburger with Fries ($10). How could I say no?

Zu told us that they grind their own chuck on site. The burger was a pretty picture when it came, sitting atop a brioche bun nicely grilled on the outside. The cheese was artfully melted down the side of the patty. Onion, tomato and lettuce came on the side. Thin-cut fies cooked to crisp and tasty were stacked on the plate as well.

The burger was cooked perfectly pink and medium. The bun made for a nice combo. I put on a little mustard, mayo and catchup. In no time I had downed the entire burger. I must say it went nicely with the red wine, something I don't usually do at lunch. The burger was very good, but I would have liked a little more seasoning in the beef. (4 spatulas out of 5). The fries were delightful and very crisp. (4 spatulas)

You can't beat the atmosphere at Bentley's. We will be back. And don't miss the grilled hanger steak, which my Valentine loved. And isn't love what V-Day is all about?

Burger 4 spatulas out of 5
Fries 4 spatulas

John Bentley's
2915 El Camino Real
Redwood City, CA 94061
650-365-7777
http://www.johnbentleys.com/redwood-city/home.html