K and I stopped in to Best Burger and BBQ on our way home from a short hike and driving loop around the Columbia River Gorge. I was hankering for a burger and recently had heard there a many places popping up deep in Gresham that would fill the bill. We decided on Best Burger because we knew exactly where it was already and didn't have to hunt for it. Really happy with our choice.
We were ordering to-go because we had our four-legged hiking partner with us and don't like to leave him in the truck on warm days. We hurried in and were greeted warmly by a hostess/server and handed two menus. The place is small and the you can either be seated in the not-quite fast food looking dining room or order from the counter at the back of the restaurant. Behind the counter is the open air kitchen and a door to an Asiany themed full bar called Woks Up, which also boasts 4 full sand volleyball courts out the back patio. I had hoped for a patio where we could bring the pooch but there is a giant "No Pets Allowed" sign and so there I had my answer...
The menus are a little overwhelming and we were in a bit of a hurry and I imagine with my sunglasses and sweaty ponytail looked a little lost. It was at that moment that the owner, Adam introduced himself and his co-owner, Shannon to us. He then asked us how we were, how we had heard about them and if we needed any help. Very nice. Very aware of his customers and their situation. In a moment we had decided on the Hawaiian 1/4 pound and the Ranger 1/2 pounder. Oh, and a basket of Garlic Parmesan Fries ( a basket easily treats two).
The Hawaiian was pretty much what you would expect; a very tasty burger with provolone cheese, a ring of pineapple and teriyaki. The hamburger buns are sweet, soft and sturdy enough to hold up to the sauce without being dry. I loved being able to enjoy the burger with just the right amount of "juice" and not get too sloppy with a soggy bun. I do however, enjoy a teriyaki that is a little less salty than what is on this burger. That may just be my personal preference.
The Ranger is their prize winner. We had the 1/2 lb. version of this wonderful cheeseburger topped with beef brisket. Warily, I poked at the brisket. It looked like it may be a little dry. I was wrong. Oh So Wrong, and delightfully so. This brisket was moist and flavorful, fully complementing the meat deliciousness of the hamburger. I want to come back for this one. My only problem with it is that a portion of the proceeds for this particular burger goes to the USS Ranger Foundation, dedicated to bringing the decommissioned aircraft carrier to rest in the Columbia in the Troutdale/Fairview region. I don't think this is a good idea but enough about politics, back to burger. And fries. Oh the fries. Hand-cut fresh potato french fries, golden brown and covered with parmesan cheese and just enough garlic to clear your sinuses but not everyone around you. Straight up yum.
We'll be back when we have a little more time to spend. Linger on the extensive (maybe too extensive?) menu and possibly check out those volleyball courts in the back. Oh yes, we will be back.
