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.
