THERE is a new star that deserves a place in the Hollywood walk of fame. Only this one is edible.
This month’s special at Honest Burgers is simply called the California, and it is an all-American inspired meal.
It comprises not one but two smashed beef patties, served with bacon, French mustard, double American cheese, grilled onions, brown butter burger sauce, tomato, lettuce and pickles.
It’s a blockbuster of a burger, and towers on the plate – almost as tall as the famous Hollywood sign, give or take some hyperbole.
Honest Burgers says the sear cooking approach keeps the juices locked in, and by cooking it with American mustard, it creates an incredible taste.
It is, they add, a favourite of the stars, and is an icon of the burger world. So does this mean that Sonning resident George Clooney will be dropping in for a taste? Maybe he would if he wasn’t preparing to make his Broadway debut in Good Night, and Good Luck – he won’t be back in time as the burger is only on the menu until Monday, June 3.
This is a large double burger. Presented in its enamel platters, the burger really does tower over the rosemary salted chips, making you wonder how best to handle it. Do you pick it up and eat with both hands? Or have you bitten off more than you can chew with this approach?
Do you eschew the messy face that such an approach takes and instead use cutlery?
To be honest, it’s whatever you feel comfortable with. Just be glad there are napkins on hand to help with any messy eating mishaps.
The portion is overly generous, and finishing the plate is a challenge, especially if you opt for a side dish, such as onion rings. You’ll feel full for the rest of the day – it really does live up to its blockbuster billing.
The California costs £15.30, and if you don’t want the chips, you can opt for a seasonal coleslaw or dressed green salad.
Honest Burgers’ drinks menu includes several locally-brewed beers from Double Barrelled and Siren Craft Brew, which makes dining out even better. Which brewery would George choose?
Honest Burgers is on King Street in Reading town centre, and is open from 11am daily. For more details, log on to: https://www.honestburgers.co.uk/locations/reading/or call: 0118 214 5550.
