5 Napkin Burger

The Sage Questions
Date Spot? Casual, Yes
Good for Groups? Yes
When Parents Visit? No
Cost? $15 burgers
Wines under $100? Excellent beer and whiskey selection, some wine
Location: 45th and 9th

Rating: 3

5 Napkin Burger is an excellent spot to go for a casual meal or drink if you find yourself (God forbid) in Hell's Kitchen. The decor is "meat-locker chic", with meathooks and small bistro-style tables strewn about a tile floor. It is warm, and it is loud. The signature "5 Napkin" burger is a ground sirloin burger that is just chewy enough without being dry, and is sublimely meaty. It comes covered in gooey comte cheese and slightly sweet sauteed onions on a big fluffy brioche roll. If you attempt to pick it up, you may need a great deal more than five napkins. My advice? They give you a steakknife - don't be a hero, just use it.

The excellent bar at the back features an arm's-length list of scotches and bourbons, as well as a great many flavored vodkas and local microbrews. Wine is one thing they're a bit light on, but if beer or whiskey doesn't do it for you, they do make a killer fruity cocktail as well.

If you're either in the neighborhood or looking for that next great burger fix, don't miss this place.