Cheryl's Global Soul, Brooklyn

I wasn't expecting to find a burger at what had been described to me as just "a good sandwich shop." Cheryl brings more to the table than your average sandwich. I was tempted to order the baguette stuffed generously with cured meats that the man next to me was indelicately devouring, but being in a burger mood...

There's not much to Cheryl's burger (with cheddar) but it comes out with that free-form look of having just been patted together in the kitchen rather than taken from a frozen stack. VW recently told me how much she likes burgers that are not quite in the round- this way some edges cook a little differently and you get some crispiness on the outside and a nice tenderness at the center. I think she makes a really good point and I agree wholeheartedly. This is what made Cheryl's burger pleasant. But it wasn't enough to make it great- just good. Usually I'm not a fan of the brioche bun, but Cheryl has a nice one. I added some spicy mayo to my burger and this gave it a little more interest- but you have to ask for it. The fries were delicious and there are plenty to share.

Cheryl's Global Soul
236 Underhill Ave., Brooklyn
347 529 2855

Corner Bistro, New York City

"You have to go to Corner Bistro!"
We heard this more times than we care to admit.
Now, we're ashamed we didn't go sooner.
We avoided the usual line that snakes out the door and down the street of this west village watering hole by going on a rainy Monday afternoon. They're not lined up for the drinks here.
Ask for a booth in the back and order the Bistro burger: classic bun, raw onion, juicy 8-ounce paddy, cheese, heap of bacon, tomato, lettuce, bun- in that order. This one challenges the jaw but goes easy on the wallet (it's only 6.75! In Manhattan!).
There are no frills here. In fact, it feels a bit like time stopped ticking away long ago. But there's a friendly, convivial vibe and it seems like the guys working there would always be happy for another regular or two.
Hopefully you'll have the pleasure of being served by Luis. He'll make you feel right at home.
-Be sure to say hello.

Corner Bistro 331 West 4th Street @ Jane Street, New York City
212 242 9502
Cash only.