Trueburger

Trueburger Restaurant Review:

Trueburger's owners, Bay Area natives Jason Low and Greg Eng, were sous chefs at Oakland's Bay Wolf and other highbrow spots (Jardinière, Absinthe Brasserie & Bar) before opening this down-home gem. The small, clean, casual dining space with room for 30 and counter service boasts "fast food done right," with no preservatives, trans fats or additives, and an impressive cost-flavor ratio. Burgers are the stars, including cheese and bacon-topped versions, and an above-average vegetarian portobello stuffed with smoked mozzarella. All are elevated by toasted, house-made egg buns. Beef is ground fresh daily; burgers are cooked to order, with default toppings of garlic sauce, lettuce and tomato (pickles and onions optional). Kosher, all-beef hot dogs are finished with chili and cheese if desired, as are the addictive, thin-cut fries. Don't miss the rich and flavorful milk shakes, all spun in house, with indulgent mix-ins such as toasted marshmallows and (when available) Twinkies.