Hidden Burger is the city's worst kept secret. Tucked away at the back of Bottom Line sports bar in the bustling Financial District, you really do have to hunt for it (the sign is small!). We met up with co-owner Wayne Cowley, of ex-NHL fame, to find out more and sample the fare.
A burger joint that goes “back to ground roots,” Hidden Burger launched just last month. Spearheaded by Cowley, who “knew nothing about the restaurant business” before purchasing Bottom Line, it's taking Toronto by storm.
Why? Because Hidden Burger is doing things differently. “One hundred percent done by social media and technology,” they're offering great deals on food via UNOapp technology (yes...there's an app for that). Customers who download the app can order a single patty combo right from their phone for only $10 tax in, which is $2 less than walk-in guests, and bypass the line for pick-up. Via the app, customers also have access to specials, contests and other tasty rewards. Download it here for iOS and Android.
With a focus on consistency, this eatery's serving up a simple menu - cheeseburger, double cheeseburger and veggie burger combos, with homemade fries and a beverage. Substitutions are not an option here...“don't want cheese? then ask to hold the cheese, that's the only choice you get!” The burgers are made fresh daily from “ground chuck, salt and pepper” and the fries are hand cut from Yukon Gold potatoes in a special two-day process. Before you ask, items are available a la carte and the veggie burgers are a secret recipe.
Hidden Burger also offers the Jughead Platter. Perfect for office lunches and backyard parties, it's 10 burger combos (burger, fries, drink and jalapeno dipping sauce) for $100 tax in. Delivery is free and no tip is required, though it's always welcome. The name's a nod to the Archies comics decorating their walls – in each one, “Jughead is eating a burger!”
We're not done yet! While burgers can be easily picked up if you're in the downtown core, delivery is available within 1 kilometre – often by Wayne himself. They've also partnered with Foodora to offer bicycle delivery within 2.5 kilometres.
The burger? Our blogger opted for a single patty with the day's 'secret' toppings – goat cheese and red pepper. The verdict? “Delicious.... both the meat and potatoes are cooked and seasoned perfectly. One of the best homemade burgers and fries we've ever had!”
