On a mission!

So last night I failed in my endeavor to enjoy a juicy burger from "Ray's Hell Burger," but today I ran into a friend making rounds on the hill who also had heard about the new joint and was eager to try it out himself. Luckily both of us had no firm plans except possibly go watch the Congressional Baseball game in 95 degree heat, which can be fun especially since the Democrat Members usually do a great interpretive performance of the "Bad News Bears."

However the heat deterred us, and we decided to hit up the burger joint. This time we went earlier, about 6:30, and fortunately the line was manageable. The place is narrow, barely decorated, but in the back, the kitchen is completely open behind the counter, and you can watch the whole process. They are literally grounding the beef and making the patties as you order your burger, and the beef used is the same prime aged heaven he serves up right next door. All the patties are 10 oz., so a good size burger and that is the only size it comes in. They have a few set preps, but most build the burger starting with the seasoning which is either au poivre, diablo, or basic grilled. Then he has an extensive selection of cheeses and different toppings you can add for a few dollars more. I decided to opt for one of the preset ones because it had everything I wanted. I ordered what is called the BIG POPPA, which is done au poivre, rolled in peppercorns, with danish bleu cheese, caramelized onions, and sherried mushrooms. I got the burger med/rare, and ordered a mini pitcher of Old Dominion Root Beer which they have on tap, and since they have no regular beer. Just a selection of fancy sodas and also massive root beer floats. On a side note, root beer on tap is delicious, it was a great compliment to wash down the burger

After the ordering they take your name and you have to fumble back into the dining room to find a seat. After a few minutes they call your name and you have to waive them down to bring you the burger. They have no fries, but it is served with corn on the cob and a watermelon slice (if you want a salty side, there is a selection of potato chips)

The burger was massive with all the toppings, so I felt the need to cut it in half. It was magnificent, it was literally the freshest and tastiest ground beef I have every had. At times the flavors were competing with one another and it got a little intense with all the peppercorns, bleu cheese, onions, and mushrooms. My one complaint though is that the burger is almost too juicy and the bun falls apart a bit, so it can get messy. However, for 8 bucks, and some damn tasty root beer on tap, it is well worth it, and I will be back for more. FYI, cash only...

Cheers,

BR