Many French assume that North American food is necessarily junk food. But as I realized when I came to Canada, there is a huge difference between your usual sad-looking fast-food combo and the food served in local greasy spoons.
Yes, there is such a thing as a good burger.
Just go to Dick’s. Inspired by classic 1950s diners, this friendly family-owned place offers all the traditional North American fares: fries, onion rings, burgers, milkshakes, hot dogs, etc. Yes, this is not the place to go if you’re on a diet but hitting a burger joint once in a while can’t hurt, right?
Dick’s took over an old Dunkin Donuts, so the shape of the building will probably look familiar to some. There is plenty of parking space and a little patio with picnic tables on the side during the summer. However, don’t expect a scenic view, unless you consider Merivale Road a scenic place.
Inside, it feels like stepping into the 1950s: rock’n’roll music plays (not too loud so it’s not annoying) and old ads such as Coke’s and Dr. Pepper’s and displayed on the wall. There are six booths for four people, a smaller one for two people and seating space along the window.
The specialty of the place is, of course, burgers. The meat patties are cooked over charcoal and yes, it does make a big difference. Many unique types of meat are available, including kangaroo, bison, ostrich and the good old-fashioned beef patty. Even though I’m not a strict vegetarian, I must admit I have a fondness for their veggie burger. The patty is made with black beans, herbs and spices—try it, it’s surprisingly tasty and spicy! Fries are hand cut and onion rings are made fresh. The portions are huge, and we usually split a regular order between the two of us.
Food is made to order but service is relatively fast and extremely friendly. I personally find prices are fair considering the portions and the quality but those used to Mcdonald’s will find the prices higher. For a burger, fries and a drink, it’s about $10 to $13.
Give it a shot and experience burgers the way they should be!
The Good
- Generous with coupons! There is often a way to get a good deal (check out the “coupon” section on their website).
- Caters to vegetarians with their awesome Veggie Burger!
- Friendly family place with great service.
The Bad
- Not a place for large groups: the booths are for four people, six maybe if you can squeeze in a bit.
- Closed on Sundays.
- A bit out of the way for downtown people.
At a glance
1485 Merivale Rd (dickshamburgers.com)
Mon-Wed. 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Thu-Sat. 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
I’m guessing the beef one should be heavenly 😀
Do you eat beef?
They have all kinds of meat, even fish 😉
YES I DO! But there are very few places in Bangalore that serve beef burgers 🙁
I know beef is not an Indian staple food for religious reasons, but what’s the story exactly? Are places still allowed to serve beef? Who eats/doesn’t eat it?
So, technically cow is an Indian Goddess. So its sacred, but he opinion varies from place to place. A lot of Kerala (where I’m from), is *very* beef friendly. Other states, not so much.
I see, makes sense. Any reason why Kerala in particular is more “beef-friendly”?
Never found a reason. Maybe its because people are less strict about this. Maybe because there’s a number of Christians in the state.
Sounds like the kind of place I’d like but I checked and can’t find one in Toronto.
No, it’s not a franchise but an independant place 😉
Looks really juicy and yummy there 🙂
There is definitely a difference between the regular fast food chains and local establishments. As you have said, they might be greasy, but still, the local joints make it way better, even here in Buffalo, that is the trend. Which is why whenever I want a burger fix, I never ever go to those chain stores, but to one of the local places here.
Yep, same here! The difference is amazing… I wish I could take a picture of McDonalds’ burger and one of Dick’s burgers, it’s not even close even visually!
I love me a good burger! There are few things in the world that can be more satisfying than that!
For the record, I just saw a video about the supposedly best burger in the US : yummy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyMo4KFrlyw
Since you traveled in North America, I know that you know what I mean: real burgers are awesome!
Oh! You’ve just made me super hungry! 😀
…Sorry? 😉
Hmm, I’ll have to try this place! I LOVE tasty greasy spoon diners!
Have you been to Hintonburger yet? We went and it was pretty good. Just a little shack though, it’s not really a good sit down place.
Haven’t been there, although I’ve heard of it. I guess it’s a bit out of my way. Did you taste the burgers at Five Guys? It’s such as hype here!
I love 1950’s diners and agree there’s a world of difference between a real hamburger and a fast food one.
I know! I wish more Europeans knew that good burgers do exist.