Top 5 “Gourmet” Burgers

I've gone on a hunt in search of the best gourmet burgers at affordable prices, and the results are...

TOP 5 GOURMET BURGERS (@ A FRACTION OF THE PRICE)

1. Andrew's Hamburgers

This, in my opinion, is the reigning King of all burgers. You don't have to go far for this, it's in Albert Park, and you can call to pre-order before picking them up! For $9 (with the lot), you get a juicy, chunky, herbed beef patty, cooked to perfection, topped with caramelised onion, fried egg, crispy bacon strips, fresh tomato, & melted cheese wrapped in a soft sour dough bun. Add to that some generous portions of crispy, well-seasoned, thick cut chips and you're on your way to burger heaven..

2. Urban Burger

When this burger joint first opened in 2003, it filled the gap for a heap of burger afficianados all looking for a highly accessible gourmet burger. And this is why this joint remains successful till today, with over 8 locations in Melbourne, Australia. Personally, I like the beef bambino; its a nice size for most ladies who don't want to go overboard but still crave the hearty goodness of a open-flamed grilled burger. For $5.90, you get a tender mini prime beef burger served with salad, relish & aioli in your choice of wholemeal or sour dough bun. If you're after bigger flavours, go with the Urban Legend ($10.90) comprising of 100 % prime beef, crispy bacon, melted cheddar, dijon or seeded mustard, salad, relish, & aioli.

3. Grilled

Another popular burger franchise to check out is Grilled with over 24 outlets across Australia & growing. They sell themselves as "healthy burgers" with "preservative-free patties" and certainly live up to their word. Each burger is freshly grilled to order so you know its made just for you; and you can expect interesting flavours that's sure to whet your appetite. Get a "Hot mama" for $11.50 and you'll bite into luscious flavours of 100% lean beef, roasted peppers, dill pickle, tasty cheese, tzaiziki, salad and harissa paste.

4. Burger Monster

I chanced upon this star find in my recent stroll along Harbourtown and was surprised by the juicy succulent quality of beef, generous size and value-for-money burgers offered at this joint. Located in Harbourtown Shopping Centre at Waterfront City, Docklands, this is a new "kid" in town and a sister to their original outlet at Little Collins St. The menu is basic with the classic cheeseburger, chicken or vegan burger but the tastes are bountiful.

5. Cafe Vue

Offering reasonably priced lunches on the go, this place serves up a pretty mean burger with fries ($10) on a rustic wooden board, in lovely & quaint al fresco dining style as well. The soft, sweet brioche bun and beefy burger are a draw; the only comment I would have is the petite size of the burger but it should suffice for most. If you're ravenous, I say go to the other places above.