Best Grand Rapids Burger! Choo Choo!
I’m pretty sure I have just been introduced to the best burger in Grand Rapids. I would have made the argument for Cottage Bar, but Choo Choo Grill blows there burger out of the water. Have you even heard of this place? I wasn’t aware until I was introduced by co-worker Dan Willey last Friday (That’s right…I promised the shout out by name!).
Located on a very large lot in a very small red building (Old Train Station I do believe), on the corner of Leonard and Plainfield, the Choo Choo Grill has been serving up one of Grand Rapids best burgers for a very long time. Any Grand Rapidian needs to experience the Choo Choo just once…then you will be addicted for life.
Did I mention this place is small? The Choo Choo has nothing more than a grill, a malt machine, a counter than fits maybe 10, and two booths. You have to come early or late. Never be on time or you’ll be waiting to be seated.
When I went on Friday, I went with a group of four. We left around 11:30 in hopes of beating the lunch crowd. We were lucky to find the last 4 seats available at the bar as another couple had just finished. Before I had a chance to review the mish mashed menu board I was approached for my order. Once you do review the board you notice that you really can only have three things…a burger, steak fries, and a shake. I opted out of the shake to make sure a food coma didn’t kick in later in the day (I would soon find out that was inevitable). I went with the standard half pound burger cooked to order. The option to take on the Legend will be saved for my next trip (consisting of two half pound patties before the toppings are added).
The burger was absolutely delicious. It had the right combination of beef to bread to grease and left me wanting more. This was a prized experience I look forward to sharing with family and friends. Enjoy! – Jon
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Before you crown a Kent County’s Best Burger winner, try Bud’s Hamburg on Remembrance across from the old D&W. If you bring any women, make sure they dress conservatively or Bud will take an eyeful.
One correction and a couple opinions on the Choo Choo. The little red depot was actually an office for purchasing coal and oil from the RR company. There is an alternative to a shake: they serve root beer in a frosty mug which is quite enjoyable. You also need to experience their breakfast. It comes complete with bad jokes and good conversation from the regular clientèle.