So, this little hamburger joint is just down the street from the Coney I-Lander I posted about last time. Literally, down like a block and turn left and another block and there it is. I had vague memories of coming here as a young child and really not liking the cheeseburger, which is odd because I am a cheeseburger fanatic. But I wanted to try it and see what I thought with adult eyes (or tastebuds, I guess). Anyway, the half-pound burger is a double, two patties, with all the usual burger accoutrements (“Accoutrement! What the **** is this ****?”). It used to be called the “Men’s Burger” and the quarter-pound single patty burger was called the “Women’s Burger,” but, you know, not that PC really, so they don’t do that anymore.
Anyway, Harden’s has been around since 1939 and their claim to fame is a special seasoning they use on the meat; the recipe has been handed down from generation to generation and kept a closely guarded secret. And it’s the reason I used to hate the place. Because it is definitely a really strong, sort of black-peppery taste. It kind of burns in your mouth as you eat the burger. Um, yeah, now, as an adult, I think it’s awesome. It’s definitely a taste I haven’t had before on a burger and it gives the whole thing a unique flavor. As a kid, I would have found it too strong and some people might even as adults, but anyway, I like it and definitely think it’s a burger you should have. And the 1/2Lb. Cheeseburger is even better than the Hamburger. Anyway, yeah, this is a great burger. 4 stars.