[Photograph: Daphne's Greek Cafe]

The usual targets of my reality checks are the burgers purveyed by the big burger chains, but this week I wanted to take a peek at a smaller chain's burger that recently caught my attention. Daphne's Greek Cafe has introduced their Pita Burger, which they say is "redefining the great America sandwich."

The restaurant chain was the brainchild of former pro soccer player George Katakalidis. While sitting on the bench with an injury he decided that he would channel his entrepreneurial impulses into a fast-casual Greek restaurant. The chain has now spread through California, Arizona, and Colorado.

The Pita Burger ($5.99 with fries though prices can vary slightly by location) gives you a choice of protein (beef, chicken, or veggie) and comes with lettuce, tomato, a choice of fetas, Greek-style sauce, and is served on pita. I ordered my mine with beef and the Fire Feta (like in their beauty shot). Take a look at how the real thing looks after the jump.

[Photograph: Damon Gambuto]

The Pita Burger I got had a much thinner beef patty than the beauty shot, but still was quite attractive. Although the flame grilling made for an overdone burger, the rest of the flavors weren't bad. I'd recommend you skip the Fire Feta as it's a bit overpowering, but otherwise I thought this was a pretty good burger for a fast-casual chain. The pita-as-bun tactic was surprisingly good as it was spongy and full flavor. I don't think they've redefined the burger, but this Greek food chain does make a better than expected classic American sandwich.