Where to get a good burger in D.C.

Enough about politics. I’ve decided to write this post in English to expand my reader-base and allow my new-found American friends (if any) to read along. Additionally, I want to improve my written English.

So, where to get a good burger in D.C.? This is probably one of the most important questions – both for the visitor and for the settler in the American capital. I’ve found some good places, but feel free to add others to the list.

When I was growing up, as a child of the 70’es in Denmark, I had a lot of prejudices about the United States. Denmark was, after all, the country where radically socialist parties could get 15 percent of the votes, and where the notion of “American conditions” filled the public with horror. Among these mythic “American conditions” is “bad food” – cheap, fast and out of control.

I remember when a college friend of mine came back from a year in Boston, I asked him “So, wasn’t the food really awful? I guess you could only get sloppy, greasy Burger King, right?” Of course, he answered me: “Are you kidding? They have the best burgers in the world!” And of course they have. Color me prejudiced.

When I later visited the United States on several occasions, I of course found out that you could get any kind of food here, from the most disgusting fast food to the most delicious – and cheap – food of any variety: american, japanese, thai, mexican, italian, whatever. Since this is a (somewhat) free market economy with lots of immigration you can get any quality you want from any ethinic kitchen you want. But I’ve always been looking for that perfect burger place. And I am continuing my search here in Washington D.C.

Old Ebbit Grill – Classic power-broker spotting in central D.C., close to the White House and Treasury Department. Burgers were surprisingly good (good fries), cokes were on refill and the service was great. Classy decor, good value.

Luna Grill and Diner – Excellent and cosy diner close to Dupont Circle. Burgers (especially the meat) were really good.

Ollie’s Trolley – Family-owned fastfood look with patina – a trolley/diner? Classic “Ollie Burger” was surprisingly good, but a bit hard for the stomach. Apparently there are people looking for the Oliieburger recipe!
Will be updated, when I eat more burgers!

Coming up – pictures from D.C!