Now that's how you do a burger!

You may recall I had a wee little post about the debacle that was the White Castle Slider.  I feel I have to balance such a scathing review with another burger-joint review  (and no, this will not be a future calling for me).

This past weekend we packed the family up and headed to Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky, Ohio.  We had a fantastic time, and everyone had a blast splashing the hours away at the water park.

Right across from GWL was another venerable American hamburger establishment: Steak 'n Shake.  Steak 'n Shake has been around for over 75 years, and is most famous for its steak burgers.  It offers a kitchy aesthetic appeal  predominated by white and black striped awnings on the outside, and a stainless steel diner look on the interior.

It had been at least 15 years since I visited a Steak 'n Shake, so I suggested we head there for lunch.  After our White Castle experience Chris was a tad nervous to venture outside the McDonald's comfort zone of burgers.  I assured him that although my memory was hazy,  Steak 'n Shake burgers were the real deal.

As we perused the menu, I contemplated the lighter fare (i.e salads and grilled chicken sandwiches)  then I realized - this is a bloody burger joint!  Order a burger and to hell with the calorie count! 

I ordered "The Original Double 'n Cheese", a two patty burger with cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, ketchup, mustard and mayo.  Opting for a more exotic option, Chris chose the guacamole burger described as: "two hot-off-the-grill Steakburgers with cheese on a toasted bun and your choice of toppings. Includes fresh, made-from-scratch guacamole, cilantro, squeezed lemons and limes and spicy chipotle mayo."

This is what my meal looked like (minus the shake - we saved that for dessert)  I take no credit for the photo because again - forgot my darn camera!

I tell you - this is the real deal.  An ooey, gooey, greasy hamburger paired nicely with what Steak 'n Shake calls "thin and crispy fries", but what I prefer to call frites.  My first bite of double patty cheesy awesomeness was quickly followed by another and another.  I was considerate enough to offer Chris a bite - if only to ensure I could try some of his.  Chris's burger was surprisingly flavourful with a touch of spice at the very end.  The only thing missing was vinegar for the fries (I had to remind myself that we were in the States and that asking for vinegar for the fries might very well lead to tar and feathering).

After we were all done with the grease, we had to wash it down with a shake. The selection of shake possibilities is mind-boggling.  Chris ultimately decided on the M&M shake, neglecting to take into consideration the problems diced M&M's cause when drinking through a straw.  Nonetheless we prevailed and drank that sucker down without hesitation.  Let me tell you.... the shake was just as good as I remembered!

All in all, a much happier dining experience for the James family!