New Yorkers will find it hard to discover a dining establishment with a more straightforward menu than that of Burger Joint on West 8th. As an already well-known restaurant at their other location in Le Parker Meridien hotel, Burger Joint is famous for some of Manhattan's best burgers. To further explain the solid reputation that this 8th Street spot has, there is no signage, there is simply a replica of the original neon sign from the hotel to let patrons know that they have arrived.
Previously occupied by another restaurant, this new expansive space has been completely gutted, leaving traces of the original hand-drawn art work on the walls, the old hardwood floors and the exposed ceiling from the building's original days. With menu choices made from the sides of cardboard boxes and handwritten options, the restaurant serves up delicious burgers with no frills and no complaints. All we had to do was choose if we would like a cheeseburger or hamburger and which classic toppings we would like to accompany our patty. Did we want a brown bag filled with fries - yes please. And for dessert, their classic brownie or a milkshake to wash it all down. Done!
Burger Joint also has a bar and late night hours. Ailbhe Mullen, the manager and charming, business-savvy woman from Ireland, has high hopes for the bar and burger combination. “I have a vision for this space,” she said. "I knew right away when I walked into this landmarked building that there was something about it – I had to have it.” With the kitchen and main seating located in the rear of the restaurant, Ailbhe welcomes the fact that visitors will, initially, believe that this location is more of a big bar serving burgers than a restaurant with a bar. We are certain, however, once word gets out that the same amazing food they have been delighting customers with at Le Parker Meridien since 2003, is now available here, the lines will mimic the uptown location and be out the door.
