Burger Monger in Tampa, Florida

I love cartoon characters and/or mascots from the burger chains’ early days. So I always get excited when some newer indie burger joint like Burger Monger (10412 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa) have their own dude (or dudette) representing the place.

On the flip side of this coin, you always hope that the resto has some good food or it’s just a waste of a character.

My wife Marcela was with me but just wanted something to drink. So I took this opportunity to order her a Hershey Chocolate Häagen-Dazs Milk Shake that she didn’t want (maybe she didn’t, but I needed to try it).

Burger Monger Hershey's Chocolate Shake
Hershey’s Chocolate Häagen-Dazs Shake

I go for a double order of fries (1 pound), a chili dog, and The Burger Monger (their signature 6 oz. Akaushi Kobe Beef patty).

The shake arrives, and I watch the person who claimed they didn’t want any, slurping away. I take a taste, and it’s just like a milkshake version of a Hershey’s candy bar (makes sense, I guess).

The fries are crispy and delicious. Since I don’t end up eating them all, they’re taken to go.

Burger Monger French Fries
Crispy Fries

The hot dog is also Akaushi Beef and topped with an amazing chili sauce. This could be, might be, and is a close contender to the best chili dog I’ve ever had. Honestly, no joke. I loved it, and I’m still thinking of it lovingly like a love affair from summer camp in junior high.

Burger Monger Chili Cheese Dog
Chili Cheese Dog

What about the burger?

There’s nothing like a freshly baked bun to get you excited about what’s in-between it. The burger had a nice char, was very flavorful, and at 6 oz wasn’t too big of a patty. If it’s too small for you, you can go The Monster Monger route which is two 8 oz. patties.

Burger Monger Cheeseburger
Cheeseburger with a buttery toasted bun in the background

I chose to go with good ole’ neon yellow American, which was the right choice. The buns are mildly garlic buttered which I didn’t care for. I’m gonna assume you can ask for it just toasted, which I will do next time.

And yes, there will be a next time.

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