Yes, I've joined the bandwagon -- Umami Burger is the greatest burger joint in Los Angeles. All the hip foodies are raving about this 10 table, trendy eaterie on the corner of 9th and La Brea -- a mere 3 blocks from my apartment (which I don't live in - humpf). And the word is out -- there is almost always a line outside.
Umami is used to describe the 'fifth basic taste' along with sweet, sour, salty and bitter. Some say the literal Japanese translation is "pleasant savory taste" or "delicious flavor" and in any case, this restaurant's name is no misnomer.
Everything is made fresh on site, except for the ice cream sandwiches which they get from MILK, Poppie's favorite lunch spot that I mentioned here.
But back to Umami -- the selection of burgers offers many garnishing toppers, such as manchego, stilton, truffles and bacon. Slather the homemade condiments -- ketchup and aioli were the most notable -- on top of an ambrosial, perfectly cooked patty. And the bun, oh that bun. Soft, flavorful and sturdy. It was that kind of experience where you take the first bite, groan at your taste buds delight, continue to hold on to the burger, make wide, satisfied eyes to your dining companion and take another massive bite before swallowing the first because it is just too damn good to be true.
I was so fascinated with the burger that I ate it without pause. Thus AFTER,I sampled the tremendous beer battered onion rings and the (always preferred) Mexi-coke. Yes folks, this is a rave review.
What must be said is that the service is pretty lousy. It was over 100 degrees the day I went, which can make anyone cranky, but buddy, don't take it out on your customers. And if you are going to be such a tight-ass about pulling up an extra chair, at least stick to the rules of good service like not forgetting to bring me my water, my side sauce, my fork. . .
However, let me guarantee that the food entirely outshines any service hiccups. You must go.
0 comments:
Post a Comment