Burger Conquest

Thunder Jackson's
http://www.thunderjackson.com
169 Bleecker
New York, NY 10018

THE STORY
Ever since I met Kyle from Thunder Jackon's at Wing-Off 8, I knew we were meant to be the Will Ferrel and John C. Reilly of wings and burgers. On top of part owning TJ's, he is also a partner in Point Break and the man behind Chicken Wing Aficionado. So when he told me I had to come by and try their trademarked "Dirty Burger," I knew he wasn't here to mess around.

Three different times I tried to stop by and have the "Dirty Burger" but Kyle demanded that I only come in on a day when creator and chef Ian Russo was going to be on duty. Ian was the man behind the now defunct but highly rated, foodie fave, Ian Restaurant, known for small plates and the "Dirty Drunken Ribeye." Ian closed the place and took his skills to the "Urban Roadhouse" Thunder Jackson's, where you can now order "dirty" burgers and fries. It's a perfect mix of foodie bar eats and a frat party complete with Das Boot, skiing shots and an electronic punching bag.

THE BURGER
Jackie and I booked in a weekday lunch and headed down to meet Kyle and Ian. Before ordering, Ian came out and told us the story behind the famous "Dirty Burger". All it did was make me hungrier!! As much I love to choose how I get order my burger, I also have a deep appreciation for a restaurant that only serves it one way. If you believe in something, I say stand behind it. The "Dirty Burger"comes one way, like it or not and no matter how close you are with Kyle or Ian, they won't tell you how it's made.

The burger comes wrapped in news paper and with the house ketchup (sweet and almost spicy like BBQ sauce), a delicious truffle mayo and an order of "Dirty Fries." First bite and your taste buds and tongue are confused. The bun is soft and juicy (it's steamed), just like the burger and the whole thing melts like butter in your mouth. Then you take a 2nd bite and all you can taste is the sweetness of the sauce. There is no cheese, no lettuce, no onions, or any other vegetable, just a combo of spices and spreads. Truly a unique sandwich, the "dirty burger" is sweet but savory and it's softer than a pillow. I have never had anything quite like it.