Jordan Bailey reviews the quality of Michelin-starred burgers

In London, notable food critic Jordan Bailey recently dined at Heard, a restaurant in Borough specializing in gourmet burgers. The chef, who has exchanged the accolades of Michelin-star dining for the more casual offering of smashed patties, aims to elevate the burger experience to new heights. His review delves into the intricate details of the preparation and presentation, noting that the process of creating a smash burger involves cooking a thin patty directly on a hot griddle to achieve a caramelized edge and a juicy center. Alongside traditional toppings, the restaurant offers gourmet additions such as truffles, miso, and blue cheese, catering to both meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. Bailey emphasizes the quality ingredients and culinary skill present in the food, suggesting that burgers are evolving from simple fast food into exceptional dining experiences. However, he expresses a mix of admiration and skepticism about the burger phenomenon, recognizing that despite the innovations and higher quality, a burger fundamentally remains a burger. The review also touches upon the pairing of specialty wine and beer, curated by Bailey's sommelier wife, intended to enhance the dining experience. Despite the gourmet twists, Bailey concludes that while these burgers are skillfully made and delicious, they inevitably still hold onto their original identity as burgers. In this culinary landscape where fast food meets fine dining, Bailey's review raises questions about what truly makes food exceptional and whether preparation can fundamentally transform a dish's inherent nature. Ultimately, his experience at Heard reflects a growing trend in the restaurant industry where simplicity is reimagined with elegance, yet it remains to be seen how far these adaptations can elevate such commonplace options as burgers. On this journey of redefining classic dishes, Heard's approach showcases how skilled chefs are willing to take risks and innovate upon traditional recipes to offer diners a new perspective on familiar favorites. However, Bailey's honest reflections remind us that no amount of culinary skill can completely alter the essence of a burger, revealing the ongoing dialogue between tradition and innovation in contemporary cuisine.