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Ann's Snack Bar


Ann's Snack Bar is reputed to serve the best burger in America. News reports indicate that Ann is considering retirement, so Saibal and I rushed over to try her world famous Ghetto Burger before it's too late. A few suggestions for those making the pilgrimmage. First, block out enough time. It's well worth the wait, but there are only 8 seats. Second, don't go in before your turn comes up. If you try to go in before your turn, you will simply be asked to wait outside.


The fries came well before the burger was done. They were pretty good, particularly with the paprika sprinkled on top. However, Ann considers the burger to be the most important element of the meal. She recommends that you don't eat too many fries before your burger arrives so that you can properly appreciate it.


The Ghetto Burger consists roughly of two huge patties, two slices of American cheese, bacon, chili, lettuce, tomato, fried onions, mustard, ketchup, and mayonnaise. They are prepared using a fascinating batch technique---a group of orders are taken at once and all the burgers are cooked simultaneously, just enough to fill the small grill. Each burger gets a great deal of attention.

This is truly a great burger. I think that the chili makes it, providing an distinctive flavor note, to use a pretentious term. The patties are cooked with a healthy coating of paprika, which also contributes to the distinctive flavor.

I finished my entire burger (and considerably faster than Saibal), but I didn't eat many of the fries. Ann forgave me---the burger is what's important.

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