There are few things most people in the world can agree on – one of them being that there’s nothing quite as scrumptious as biting into a perfectly juicy burger.
Whether it’s the hands-on factor or the perfect bun-to-filling ratio that gives burgers its satisfying appeal, the profound question is this: Are burgers a defined dish, or are they simply a combination of ingredients lying on top of each other?
Also read: Celebrate International Burger Day with all things burgers
So, of course, we had to dig a little deeper. Here are 5 innovative burger creations found exclusively in Cape Town that will make you question the very definition of the dish:
The ‘OG’ Pumpkin Fritter burger
The pumpkin fritter is a Cape Malay favourite and a popular choice of sweet treat to have on the boeka table during the fasting month of Ramadan. The Wynburger‘s innovative chef has managed to create the perfect mashup of savoury and sweet by swapping out the classic buttered bun for two pumpkin fritters topped with a caramel sauce.
Throw in some ‘Kaan Get’ basting, or litchi-infused onion rings for the the Boeta ‘O’ burger, and a range of masterpieces were created.
For an exotic twist, there’s also a ‘Malaysian Persia-Asian’ option that includes a crispy chicken breast with teriyaki sauce and chargrilled coleslaw among other delectable offerings.
It sounds a little strange, but we guarantee you, it works.
- Location: 71 Castletown Road, Wynberg
- Website: wynburger.co.za
The Sushi burger
Have you ever found yourself stuck between getting a burger or having some sushi? Well, now you can literally have both by opting for none other than a sushi burger. The decision has never been easier.
Made with deep-fried sushi rice, seared salmon or tuna with lettuce, carrots, avo cabbage, sesame seeds and a signature sauce; this sushi burger is sure to hit both cravings.
At Aiko Sushi, you are spoilt for choice when craving sushi but looking for something a little bit different. Think doughnuts, pizzas, burritos or fish balls – made with sushi.
- Location: 4 Bree St, Portside, Foreshore
- Website: aikosushi.co.za
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The Mac & Cheese burger
When you’re in the mood for a bit of carbo-loading, this American-style BBQ smokehouse and burger joint is the place to be.
Talladega Grill combines comfort with comfort, serving two universal favourites in one wholesomely satisfying burger. And for the smoked meats connoisseurs, rest assured, all their products are smoked in a custom-built natural wood smoker made with the finest Apple and Oakwood.
In the spirit of all things classic, have one of their gourmet milkshakes. After all, it’s the best accompaniment to any burger, besides fries, of course.
- Location: 343 Imam Haron Rd, Lansdowne
- Website: @talladegagrill / Instagram
The Lab-burger
The start-up company Newform Foods (formally known as Mzansi Meat Co) have succeeded in producing Africa’s first-ever lab-cultivated meat burger.
According to the Daily Maverick, on 12 April 2022, three sliders were prepared by vegan chef Jason McNamara on a bed of The Kind Kitchen. The patties were placed delicately on a bed of lettuce on a roll, with a light coating of mayonnaise.
Think juicy beef burger… but without the cow.
Their vision is to become the largest cultivated meat company in Africa, creating deliciousness by fighting the challenges and negative climatic impacts of ordinary food systems.
While trying this burger is not as simple as walking into a restaurant, you can request a tasting of their cultivated meat online here.
- Location: 35 Brickfield Road, Woodstock
- Website: newformfoods.com
The old-school Mega Slider
The Dog’s Bollocks sticks to the classic bun and protein combo, but only serves burgers of one size: ginormous.
In addition to some of Cape Town’s best pizzas, breakfasts, lunches, cocktails and beers, this brick-lined digs offers a choice of pure beef or vegan patties, or chicken fillets, with caramelised onions and cheddar cheese, dripping in chilli con carne and cheese sauce or spicy Mozambican Portuguese sauce among other options.
For added extraness, you can order some fired banana toppings.
- Location: 6 Roodehek Street, Gardens
- Website: The Dog’s Bollocks | Facebook
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings here.
Also read:
5 Gatsbys that challenge the status quo and where to find them in Cape Town
Picture: Unsplash
