Burger at Royal Tavern in Philadelphia

Posted by Robyn Lee, March 6, 2009 at 2:30 PM

Last weekend I took a weekend trip to Philadelphia without any fooding plans in mind. And then I ate two burgers within a 24-hour period. I just can't help myself.

The first burger I ate was from Royal Tavern, a bar/restaurant that welcomes you with a chalkboard that shouts, "COME TRY PHILADELPHIA'S BEST BURGER!" (among other non-burger related things). So, being the easily swayed person I am, I did what the sign told me to do.

The eight-ounce Angus burger ($9) was topped with bacon, caramelized onions, smoked Gouda, pickled long hot peppers, and chile mayonnaise on a seeded brioche bun. Autopsy shot after the jump.

This is one of the worst autopsy shots I've ever taken. Sorry.

The first bite of the hot pepper jolted my mouth awake with a slight burning sensation, but it wasn't really a complement to the meat, which I thought tasted bland. Juiciness level was satisfying—not excessive, not dry. Chile mayonnaise added another layer of fatty creaminess. I also liked the soft, toasted bun. But overall, I couldn't say that this is Philly's best burger.

I know I also have to check out Pub & Kitchen, but I'll take other recommendations if you have them—preferably for non-stuffed burgers and burgers that aren't larger than eight ounces, since by that point my stomach is ready to explode. (Even better is if you can recommend restaurants that are vegetarian-friendly for my non-meat eating friends.)

Royal Tavern

937 E Passyunk Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19147 (map)
215-389-6694

Related
Good Dog's Cheese-Stuffed Burger in Philadelphia
Best Burger in Philadelphia at Pub and Kitchen
Philly Burger Roundup

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Tags: AHT reviews, Flavor Guides, Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Royal Tavern