Brews and Bites: Whiteville Area Burger Battle

By Justin Williamson

The Whiteville area is home to more than a handful of local diners and grills and we are blessed to be able to walk into every one of these and get quality service and good food.

So let’s have a little fun and take a closer look at the burgers from these establishments here in our small town. Let’s kick off a Burger Battle!

I will be visiting the following establishments to order their standard cheeseburger as served with no onions. I will be paying with my own money and rating them based on my own opinion.

 

The list so far includes Ed’s Grill, Etna Diner, Ivey’s, Jerry’s Sandwich Shop, Penn’s Grill, Ray’s Grill, Ward’s Grill, and What-a-Burger.

(If I have left out your favorite spot or a vendor that you feel deserves to be included, please let me know and I will get them in the contest!)

To keep it simple, fair and balanced, the judging criteria will be as follows:

Burger Battle Judging Criteria

1. Taste (four points)

• 4: Perfectly seasoned beef, rich flavor, toppings enhance the patty.
• 3: Good flavor, minor imbalance.
• 2: Under-seasoned or overpowering condiments.
• 1: Bland or poor taste.

2. Texture (two points)

• Juicy, tender patty with constant doneness; bun soft but sturdy.

3. Build and Balance (two points)
   • Excellent ratio of bun, meat, cheese, toppings; easy to eat and holds together.
4. Presentation (two points)
   • Looks appetizing and well appointed.

10 total points are possible for these burgers with taste being the most important criteria.

The Battle Begins

Getting to the vendors in alphabetical order will bring Ed’s Grille up first, so let’s go:

Ed’s serves a cheeseburger that’s in the classic style of our area: hand formed griddle- cooked patty, American cheese, mustard, and chili on a traditional bun.

Price: $4.54 including tax.

Flavor: 3 – A little short on salt/seasoning, very fresh beef forward.

Texture: 2 – Very juicy, bun was soft.

Build and Balance: 2 – Large patty, tasted all ingredients evenly.

Presentation: 1 – Served on paper, a little lumpy on first impression. Total: 8 Points

Ed’s is off to a strong start, obviously in first place as we begin this journey. Check back next week for our visit to the Etna Diner.

 

 

*I am open to take your feedback or suggestions on a new establishment or content ideas. Email me at: justinwilliamson@coulumbuscountynews.com.

Thanks for reading, Justin Williamson