Burger Battle Week Two: Etna Diner

By Justin Williamson

Week Two of the Whiteville Area Burger Battle takes us to the Etna Diner. This is a local establishment that has garnered a huge following over the years. Let’s dive into a burger!

Contest setup:

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 current contestants are Ed’s, Etna Diner, Ivey’s, Jerry’s, Penn’s, Ray’s, Ward’s, and What-a-burger.

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.

Texture (two points)

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

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

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

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

Price: $4.68

Flavor: 4 – Well seasoned, hints of salt and pepper in each bite. Texture: 2 – Patty was moist, bun was soft. A nice easy bite. Build and Balance: 2 – Large patty, tasted all ingredients evenly.

Presentation: 1 – Served on paper, a bit greasy to handle. Total: 9 Points

This places Etna Diner in first place among our current entries. The current standings are:

Etna Diner: 9

Ed’s Grill: 8

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