There has been a lot of talk about the Rockpool Bar’s wagyu burger. Ever since Panu and I started our search for Sydney’s best burger, we’ve had numerous recommendations for many a burger joint, but none as much as this burger. We’d actually tried to order this burger last November when dining in the restaurant area, but alas, we weren’t allowed, so now three months later, we’ve finally done it.
And what did I think?
Well. Three things.
Firstly, the burger is as good as they say...
The burger is good. It’s more than good. Cooked medium rare, the Gruyère cheese oozes all over the wagyu patty which does a fabulous job of melting in your mouth. I hardly noticed the bacon (this is a good thing as it doesn’t take away from the burger at all), and the caramelised onions and pickled zucchini made perfect innards, though I did think the zucchini an odd choice at first.
The buns were lightly toasted but still soft. The relish was tasty, and absolutely not overpowering.
All in all, a wonderful, tasty, juicy, awesome burger.
… but secondly, it’s ridiculously expensive…
It costs a bomb. At $24 for the burger alone (it comes with two slices of tomatoes and lettuce on the side), adding fries ($12) and a drink would make this meal $40-$50 per person. That’s kind of ridiculous when at Glass Brasserie, you can get also a very good burger with fries and a drink (beer/wine/soft) for all of $20.
… and thirdly, I just want a simple cheeseburger!
Lastly, as much as I appreciate this burger and all its gourmet deliciousness, all my heart (read: tummy) craves is a simple cheeseburger. Look at this from #MEATEASY, London (now Meat Liquor):
And this from Shake Shack, NYC:
You see what I mean? Simple soft bun, nice patty, oozy cheese. Voilà.
So. The verdict so far:
- If you want a great gourmet burger and aren’t concerned about the wallet, head to Rockpool Bar.
- If you want a good gourmet burger and a great value meal, head to Glass Brasserie.
- If you want a simple cheeseburger, the best I’ve found so far is at Lotus Bistro, followed closely by Jazz City Diner.
Rockpool Bar and Grill (note that the burger is only available in the bar area)
66 Hunter Street
Sydney, NSW, 2000
(02) 8078 1900
website
