Cheeseburger in Paradise

Over the years, I've become something of a cheeseburger connoisseur. I love a good meat patty smothered in cheese sitting inside a bun. So right now I'm sitting here dreaming about going to the new Carl's Jr. that just opened up here. They have this six dollar guacamole burger that is really very good. Mike and I have been watching the building going up and waiting for it to open. The actual grand opening was last night but when we drove by, the parking lot was completely full and the drive through line wrapped not only around the building but also around the building next door. It was complete madness. It seems we're not the only people here who were introduced to Carl somewhere else. When we lived in California we spent many a dollar there and also at a little place called In-N-Out that the natives are crazy about. Truth be told, I was a little disappointed in my first In-N-Out burger because it just didn't live up to the hype. If you're in southern California might I recommend a little place in San Clemente called Mr. Pete's? You won't be disappointed. Also, if you happen to be driving through Amarillo, go ahead and stop at the Blue Sky and order anything. So good.

I think the key to a really good cheeseburger is for the meat patty to be big but not too thick, for the cheese to be nice and melted and I'm sorry but it needs to be a little bit greasy. If you don't see some grease on the paper it should be wrapped in then run away. Also, I like my bun a little crispy around the edges with a little of that hamburger grease soaked up in the middle. I'm talking cheeseburger 101 here. Basic stuff. If you get these things right the burger will be good no matter what. Personally, I like to see a little bacon or avocado or even green chilies snuggled up next to the meat, but a really good burger needs no accessories.

So I'm on the lookout for the best burgers in the area. Right now we're big fans of Dan's Hamburgers. I have to say I've given my heart and maybe even some of my rear end to Dan, but I'm willing to try other places. Suggestions anyone?