REVIEW: The Burgernator

Rate: 3.5/5

Hidden behind a forest of overhanging Hoya plants and a billboard sign stands, The Burgernator. Located in the vibrant and bohemian neighbourhood of Kensington Market, Toronto. The famous burger joint got its name from one of the owner's favourite action movies, a forgotten title with Arabic roots.

The Atmosphere 

Inside, a hand-drawn burger emblem graces the black chalkboard painted wall. Its dark interior gives a grungy-mystic feel and gets customers in the mood for just chilling out. Missionary slogans like, “The burger is our weapon. The city is our battlefield”, and “Duty Calls”, give the place it’s combat look. 

But this isn’t the first burger place to open in Toronto, so what’s all the hype about? And after so long, how is the place still popular? Firstly, it’s about the service. 

Berk Deveci, manager at The Burgernator simply says: “This one [burger restaurant] is the fastest food in Toronto, others are not fast… also the stuff is good!”.

Diners know exactly what they’re in for and in the spirit of fighting hunger, customers que up to embrace the words, “Grab a burger and lets burgernate!”.

Minimal tables, a sauce station and a self-ordering system are just a few things that add to the kick back and relax vibe.

The family run business is all about the food and the people which sets it apart from big burger chains in Downtown.  

Regulars and inquisitive students (who can enjoy 10% discount) eye up the menus, keen to place their order but it’s almost certain that one burger is being favourited above all. 

The Real Deal

A list of 17 mouth-watering burgers are available, all of which have weapon related names. However, the golden ticket is the E-NORMOUS six-ounce burger selection, on the Burgers of Mass Destruction menu. And the star of the show? The Atomic Burger, ($8.99). Get ready to stimulate your taste buds and hold back the meat sweats because this burger is by far the king of burgers and it’s not even about the meat load. If you’re a lover of cheese… as in real cheese (The Burgernator doesn’t endorse processed food), you’ll be obsessed with this creation. 

A ground beef patty seasoned in home made spices is layered with tomato and lettuce. On top sits a slice of creamy, deep fried, herb crusted, cheese. That’s right and it really is as tasty as it sounds. Cheese will ooze out and with a splash of homemade burger sauce it hits the spot! The Burgernator is the only place in the area to offer a signature dish that has a deep-fried cheese blend.  

Deveci says, “There is no burger,like the atomic burger!”. Not only does the place proudly emphasise its locally sourced ingredients but Deveci says: “Everything is Halal” as “the owner is Lebanese, Muslim.”

Something lighter

If your eyes are too big for your stomach, the Classic Arsenal menu is a little less heavy offering four-ounce burgers. An option we can vouch for is the, Baconator Burger, ($10.99). Of course, this delight is a patty-bacon mix that comes with tomato, lettuce, cheddar cheese and a zing of pickles. It’s an all rounded, hearty choice. All burgers are wrapped in a fresh, brioche bun and are plated on mental trays.

Vegetarian options are limited but here the focus is quality over quantity. The go to meat-free choice is the AK Veggie 7, ($6.99) made of a vegan patty, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, homemade guacamole, lettuce, tomato and pickles.  

But let’s not forget about the fries that are made from house-cut potatoes. Salted to perfection, fluffy on the inside and crispy on the out, the fries fill you up but don’t leave you bloated. A combo deal is offered at the low price of $3.99, which includes fries and a drink.

And if you think you can handle more, this place offers a sweet treat named, The Explosion. A sugary deep-fried Mars bar served with a choice of vanilla ice cream or drizzled chocolate sauce. If that’s not enough to send you into a food coma then I’m not sure what is!

From the flavoursome food to service with a smile, The Burgernator is sure to be one for the long-haul. Another plus is that tips really are optional, yay! A rare sighting in Toronto where tax and tips are either included in the bill or expected. So, if you’re feeling big enough to take on the challenge, come prepared with an empty stomach and a big appetite.