Burger crew meeting called to order on Saturday, Jan 30th, 2022.
Members in attendance: Angela, Trev, Marty, DK, Wayne, and Innie,
Guest appearances: Marissa and Marty
This is the second attempt for this burger crew to eat at For The Win. The previous attempt resulted in a fail when we arrived to find the restaurant had unexpected plumbing issues and had to close for the day. We had to settle for Blue Bird Burgers. There was no settling on this perfect “winter” day in socal. We were able to order ahead and enjoy the burgers at a park nearby
I. Ordering
Angela, Trev – Double Cheese Burger
Marty – Single Cheese burger
Innie – Single cheeseburger jalapenos
Wayne -double cheeseburger with bacon and fries
DK – Single with cheese jalapenos and bacon
Marissa – single with cheese with bacon, lettuce tomato
II. The Burgers
First reaction from the group was “good good.” We found the pepper forward patty nicely seasoned and the course grind gave a mouth feel that was very popular with the group. The cooking of the patty was a tad inconsistent. There were some excellent bits and other parts could have been seared more but to make up for that un-evenness, EVERYTHING was gooey. (Side note: Innie found her burger on the border of too salty. We determined her salt tolerance is lower than genpop)
The onions were very onion-y and carmelized. DK and Marissa didn’t notice the onions at all. I personally think this is good thing. I think carmelized onions is one of those ingredients that’s only noticed when not present. It does a thankless job in elevating the burger taste profile.
Pickles on the other hand had good acid and were plentiful. Lastly, don’t upgrade to add tomatos and lettuce. Simply not worth it. If you like spicy, the jalapenos are worth it. (the Koreans agreed). You also can’t go wrong adding bacon.
The bun was squishy and gooey keeping in the theme of gooey for the entire burger. We suspect it was a bit extra goo since we got the burgers to go. We suspect the experience will be different if we were able to enjoy the burgers fresher at the restaurant.
Overall we found the meat to bun ratio really great in both the double and the single burger. You can’t go wrong with either and can choose based on whatever mood you’re in.
III. Fries/Brussels Sprouts
Fries weren’t that great. They felt over fried and a bit cold. This seems to be a victim of taking food to go versus enjoying fresh right away. If eating there I would recommend the fries, if taking to go it’s worth considering passing on this option and opting for the brussels sprouts!
These brussels sprouts were DELICIOUS. They were roasted to perfection then tossed in a super tangy vinegrette. They were a huge hit with the group and the bonus of feeling “healthy” by eating something green.
IV. Miscellaneous
FTW is in the corner of a tiny strip lot. Parking is very limited. We were the first ones there and it still took awhile to get our orders.
While waiting for your food you can check out the liquor store nearby.
It was nice and clean inside, tables were planks on cinder blocks, wine and beer available.
V. Value
The members were asked how much they would pay for their burgers. The answers ranged from $10 to $11.50
VI. The Verdict
The ratings from the crew were 3.9, 4.1, 4.1, 4.2, and 3.7. The burger was pretty good but not a unanimous GREAT. The “Win” is like the win a sports team gets over a weak divisional rival. (I.e. the Dodger’s beating the Padres or the Diamondbacks)
Next meeting Feb 26 – Crack Burger in Long Beach