Did you know that Santa Barbara, California is known as the “American Riviera?” I didn’t either. That’s what happens when you send The Hubs out to do a guest review. He comes back with a little nugget of info, along with a whole lot to say on a topic. In today’s guest post, The Hubs reviews the Habit Burger Grill – the latest addition to the burgeoning burger scene here in Bergen County, New Jersey. Enjoy!
Two of my favorite places on earth, each baring similar names, sit on opposite sides of the world and in more ways than one. The French Riviera and the Riviera Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. I guess you can say I’ve got a habit for rivieras. So when I was asked to grab a taste of the recently opened the Habit Burger Grill in Fair Lawn, New Jersey, I knew I was in for a treat. The California-based burger chain founded on the American Riviera in Santa Barbara, CA established its first East Coast home right here in Bergen County, New Jersey and has received rave reviews. I was interested to see what all the buzz was about, considering my love for all things burger. And well, all things riviera.
The history of the Habit
One bite of that hot, juicy Charburger and suddenly I was in Santa Barbara, where the original Habit opened its doors in 1969. The Fair Lawn location is in the newly opened Promenade Shops located on Route 208 North. The space is similar to other nearby burger places. Orders are placed at a counter in the front of the store and a buzzer is provided which alerts “addicts” when their order is ready. There is both indoor and outdoor seating available on a first come first served basis. The place was certainly “Creating Habits.” Virtually every seat was full. We arrived around noon and the line continued growing. In fact, by the time we left, the line was longer than when we arrived. While this did make the restaurant feel a bit cramped, I think it bodes well for their future success not to mention their very, very tasty burger.
Taking a bite of the Habit’s Charburger
I had a double Charburger and Roc’s grandparents each had regular Charburgers. They all came with fries and a fountain drink. We also got an order of onion rings to share and Roc enjoyed a kid’s meal with chicken nuggets from their kids’ menu. It was really delicious and I’m already ready to go back and try some more Habit.
Chicken nuggets and fries for the little guy.
The menu includes a great choice of beach-inspired recipes—like a fresh-grilled albacore sandwich made with line-caught tuna; a chicken sandwich topped with crisp bacon and velvety avocado; and crisp salads made to order. As they say on their website, “One bite of a Charburger transports you to a place where cool ocean breezes sweep gently through majestic green palm fronds.”
Well, there are no palm fronds in Fair Lawn, at least not yet, but there is certainly much Respect for the Burger.
If there is one thing to caution mom a la mode readers about, it’s parking. Parking spaces at the Promenade are as precious as those juicy Habit burgers, so consider an early lunch or dinner. And prepare yourself for your new habit.
Bustling scene at the Habit
-The Hubs
{The Hubs is a contributor to mom a la mode. Monetary compensation was not received, but a gift card was provided for review purposes of the establishment. All opinions are those of the guest contributor.}
The Ultimate Guide to Crafting the Perfect Burger
A burger is more than just a meal; it’s an experience, a cultural icon, and a culinary canvas where flavors meet creativity. Whether you’re a fan of the classic cheeseburger or enjoy a gourmet twist, mastering the art of crafting the perfect burger is essential for any food lover.
1. Choosing the Right Meat
The foundation of any great burger starts with the patty. Ground beef is the most popular choice, with an ideal fat content of 20% to achieve that juicy, flavorful bite. For those seeking a healthier option, turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives are excellent substitutes. The key is to ensure your patty is well-seasoned with salt and pepper, enhancing the natural flavors of the meat.
2. Perfecting the Patty
When shaping your burger patty, aim for a thickness of about ¾ inch. This ensures a balanced cook, keeping the inside juicy while achieving a perfect sear on the outside. Make a small indentation in the center of the patty with your thumb; this prevents the burger from puffing up and ensures even cooking.
3. Grilling vs. Pan-Searing
The debate between grilling and pan-searing a burger is as old as the burger itself. Grilling offers that smoky, charred flavor, ideal for summer cookouts. Pan-searing, on the other hand, allows you to achieve a consistent crust and retain more juices, making it perfect for home kitchens. Whichever method you choose, cook your burger to an internal temperature of 160°F for a perfectly done patty.
4. The Bun Matters
The bun is more than just a vessel for your burger; it’s an integral part of the experience. Brioche buns are popular for their slightly sweet flavor and soft texture, complementing the savory patty. Toast your buns lightly on the grill or in a pan to add a bit of crunch and prevent them from becoming soggy.
5. Toppings: The Final Touch
Toppings are where you can truly personalize your burger. The classics like lettuce, tomato, and pickles add freshness and crunch, while a slice of cheddar or Swiss cheese melted over the patty adds richness. Don’t be afraid to experiment with caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even a fried egg for a gourmet twist.
Conclusion
Crafting the perfect burger is an art that balances flavor, texture, and creativity. By choosing the right meat, perfecting your patty, and selecting quality buns and toppings, you can create a burger that’s not just a meal, but a culinary masterpiece. Whether you prefer a classic cheeseburger or a gourmet creation, the perfect burger is always within reach.
Fantastic items from you, man. I’ve bear in mind your stuff previous to and you’re just
extremely wonderful. I actually like what you have received right here,
certainly like what you are saying and the best way through
which you say it. You are making it enjoyable and you continue to take care of to keep it wise.
I can’t wait to learn far more from you. This is really
a terrific website.
Some good burgers!