Is there anything more satisfying or comforting than a really good burger? If there is, let me know, but to me there is something so wonderful about finding the kind of burger you could get over and over. That’s exactly what I found when I visited El Perro Negro in Finniestion – I know, it’s ridiculous it look me this long to get there!
I had been meaning to visit their newish residence for months, and after a busy day of Ikea shopping, I figured it was time to treat myself. The space is relatively small, with only enough space for around 4-6 people, so it’s ideal as a take-out lunch, but I wanted to sit down and really enjoy the experience.
The menu is nice and simple, with six burgers to choose from, alongside a selection of chicken wings, sides and sauces. I went for the the Classic with cheese and bacon, which was topped with burger cheese, bacon, caramelised onions, pickles and burger sauce, along with a portion of the Togarashi fries. Togarashi is a Japanese spice mix, and El Perro Negro’s version packs quite a punch, so if you’re not a chilli fan, these may not be for you, but I thought they were damn delicious. The spice mix includes chilli powder, Japanese pepper, roast orange peel, black and white sesame seeds, hemp seed, ginger, seaweed and poppy seed. They are incredibly moreish and leave your lips tingling.
The burgers are served simply in eco-friendly vegware and my mouth was watering as soon as it was placed in front of me. I’m not usually a fan of pickles, but I decided to be brave and leave them in, and it was pretty life changing. For years I’ve been digging pickles out of my burgers and it turns out…I kind of like them? I mean, maybe this is something that is limited to the greatness of the El Perro Negro classic, because it was a perfect combination of saltiness from the bacon, sweetness from the caramelised onion and acidity from the pickle.
The crux of a great burger though, is the patty, and El Perro Negro prides itself on using great quality beef from small farms, raised naturally and hormone free. The burger was beautifully juicy, still just ever so slightly pink in the middle. Honestly, despite being so incredibly full, I would have happily eaten another one. It was SO good. I think next time I’ll be more adventurous and go for one of their more luxurious burgers like the Top Dog or the Black Dog. They also have great lunchtime specials, but even the full price menu offers great value for money.
If you haven’t been to El Perro Negro yet, what are you doing with your life?