The Fascinating History of the Burger: How McCray’s Keeps It Classic Yet Innovative

The burger might seem like a simple dish, but its story is anything but ordinary. Over the years, the burger has evolved from its early beginnings as a working-class meal to a beloved culinary staple enjoyed across the globe. At McCray’s Tavern, this classic dish on our menu is given the spotlight it deserves, combining tradition with innovation to provide an elevated dining experience.

From Hamburg to America’s Heart

The origins of the burger can be traced back to Hamburg, Germany, where minced beef patties, known as Hamburg steaks, were a popular dish. Immigrants brought this concept to America in the late 19th century, serving ground beef patties that were often paired with bread. But when did the burger as we know it today come into existence?

The addition of the bun is where the magic happened. Several stories claim to be the "birthplace" of the hamburger, including Louis’ Lunch in New Haven, Connecticut, and a small stand at the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis. Regardless of its exact origin, the burger’s simplicity and versatility allowed it to spread like wildfire across the nation, quickly becoming a staple of diners, fast food chains, and backyard cookouts.

The Modern Burger Evolution

Today, burgers range from quick and affordable eats to gourmet creations worthy of a fine dining experience. While the essence of the burger remains unchanged, variations have emerged to satisfy diverse tastes. From plant-based patties to stacked wagyu delights, today’s burger culture honors its humble roots while pushing culinary boundaries.

At McCray’s Tavern, the burger is more than just a menu item. It’s a celebration of this rich history, with an emphasis on using high-quality ingredients, innovative toppings, and thoughtful preparation methods.

How McCray’s Tavern Keeps the Burger Classic Yet Innovative

The Tavern Burger That Steals the Show

McCray’s Tavern has perfected the art of the burger with its signature Tavern Burger. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. The patty is the star of the show, hand-packed with premium ground beef for that unbeatable flavor and juiciness. To keep things classic, it’s cooked to order, ensuring the perfect level of doneness every time. The burger is then topped with melted sharp cheddar for a rich, tangy bite.

To elevate things further, McCray’s incorporates crispy fried onions and a dollop of their house-made tavern sauce. The sauce adds a creamy and slightly smoky depth of flavor that perfectly complements the burger. Nestled in a toasted bun and served with a side of golden fries, this dish strikes the perfect balance between comfort food and culinary artistry.

Fresh Ingredients, Thoughtful Combos

One of the things that sets McCray’s burgers apart is their dedication to fresh ingredients. Greens are crisp, tomatoes are perfectly ripe, and even the pickles offer a satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft bun and rich patty. The simplicity might sound traditional at first glance, but it’s in the execution and attention to detail where McCray’s shines.

Seasonal and Rotating Specials

Innovation doesn’t stop with the Tavern Burger. McCray’s frequently introduces special edition burgers that showcase creative flair and bold flavor combinations. From BBQ bacon burgers topped with tangy house BBQ sauce to spicy sriracha mayo creations with crispy jalapeños, the menu evolves to excite returning customers while staying true to the burger’s roots.

Options for Every Craving

McCray’s understands that variety is important, so their burger menu includes options for every dietary preference. For vegetarians, creative alternatives like black bean burgers are crafted with the same level of care and zest as the meat-based options. Guests can also customize their burgers, swapping cheeses, adding avocado, or even doubling up on patties for a towering feast.