By INBAR BERCOVITZ-EFRAIM
Simply put, I love the apple crumble at the Black Bar 'n' Burger [Bx3]. Now, with that off my chest I can more freely tell you about the burgers. After all, such is the singular reason that a burger bar exists. A well-made hamburger is a thing of beauty. As a kid in Beersheba, the hamburgers were not beautiful. Actually, they were downright sad - gray slabs of processed beef, paper-thin with the taste of cardboard. The ubiquitous side-of-fries were soft and greasy. Yet, when your parents took you out for burgers, somehow it became a wonderful experience.
Eating at the Beersheba branch of the Bx3 the other day made me happy. The simplicity of the well-formed patty of pure, ground entrecote that is the Norma Jean (NIS 55) was gratifying. It's juicy but not too greasy with a great texture found nestled on a warm, seeded bun, garnished with the mandatory fresh tomato and lettuce.
My partner was thrilled. The spicy fries made him even happier. We also had the black diamond (NIS 69) - a menu 'must try.' It's made of quality ground beef, stuffed with sweet potatoes and served with over-cooked green beans and grilled tomatoes on the side. Actually, it was tasteless. No worries, it's a new dish and the staff suggested the meh-burger (NIS 48). This juicy little lamb number is served with a great tahina with an orange zest, a perfect combo. Continuing on our way down Meat St. we had the Santa Cinta (NIS 39): salt and pickled lemon accompanied thin slices of sirloin with toasted white bread, too. Yes. And, a fine sign of things to come.
There are a number of interesting burger toppings to choose from - a veritable mental exercise. From the classics, such as garlic butter, fried egg and fried onions to some real keen ones like "smoke and fire," a combination of grilled tomatoes, chili peppers and goose. Also available is a selection of salads, veggie and otherwise (NIS 42-57).
We came hungry, and well, even after all that meat we were into the idea of the NIS 35 dessert menu, on which appears that apple crumble I mentioned earlier. Made in-house from fresh apples and served warm with two scoops of ice cream. Other options include a chocolate souffle, the Don Corleone (three layers chocolate mousse, sinful in its creation), the Bollywood (meringue with chocolate chips), a cheesecake and a sugar-free dessert. Wine is available by the glass, along with the usual selection of beers.
There is a kid's burger (NIS 43) served with fries, juice, and for dessert, birthday cake and a present! And, don't even think about it, you must be 12 or under to order. Another option, suited for all ages, is the 'Three Tenors,' which, you guessed it, is three small burgers available to satisfy anywhere from one mouth to three. But, they sure are small.
Here in Beersheba, the Bx3 is located in the new and stylish shopping mall, One Plaza, which us locals refer to as "the new Big [chain shopping center]." But, upon entering, it wins you over. They're private booths, round tables and a VIP table for 12. Outdoors you'll find the typical sidewalk set-up, with a large screen for major soccer games.
And so, with burgers better than those of our youth, the wonderful experience remains the same proving that age-old adage, "happy burgers make for happy people."
For more information visit www.rest.co.il/_intros/black/new. Other locations include: Jerusalem, Rehovot, Rishon Lezion and Ramat Hahayal.
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