Burgerim

Burgerim is a small upscale fast food place in downtown Berkeley on University. Although I would classify it as fast food, I feel a duty to acknowledge that it puts a gourmet twist on your everyday fast food experience.  

Like your typical fast food restaurant, you place your order up front from an attendant or on their kiosk. The kitchen will whip up your order in about ten minutes if they’re not too busy. You can eat your food in their small but clean dining area, or you can carry them out to go. 

It is a fantastic place to get a burger, or a chicken, turkey, or falafel sandwich with regular or sweet potato fries, or onion rings. Also available are chicken wings and side salads. In terms of beverages, they serve soft drinks and milkshakes. 

As for dietary restrictions, there are gluten-free buns and several vegetarian and vegan options as well. Many of the sandwiches are even halal.

In my experience, I ordered the angus beef burger, which comes with a beef patty, their "house sauce,"  fresh lettuce, tomato, and onion, topped with American cheese and pickles. I was offered a chance to customize this burger, but I thought it sounded pretty good as it was. I got myself a side of their "Burgerim fries" and a soft drink from their Coca-Cola fountain. 

I was thrilled by the results! The patty and bun were both soft; the patty was savory and tasted like salt and pepper, but the bun was somewhat sweet. The cheese was warm and gooey, but the fixings (the lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle) were crispy and added a nice bite. Best of all, the house sauce was one of the most incredible burger sauces I have tried! It added a gourmet flair to a classic taste. Meanwhile, the thick fries are perfectly seasoned and go perfectly with the burger. 

The prices are higher than some fast food chains, but what you are paying for is quality and attention to detail. These burgers are substantial and taste very gourmet. It isn’t just your basic fast food joint. It is a dining opportunity that will blow your mind!

The portions are hefty, but not overwhelmingly so. I’d say they’re substantial but not huge enough that they are a challenge to finish. The burgers seem to be the optimal size for a big appetite. 

All things considered, this is an incredible place to dine because of the sheer quality of the food served. It's the type of place you'll want to try again and again.