My goodness are burger joints in Atlanta exploding! The latest entrant is Grindhouse Killer Burgers, scheduled to open September
8th 14th inside the Sweet Auburn Curb Market in Downtown Atlanta.
A few months ago, as I knocked back a nightcap at Top Flr, I stumbled upon a friendly gentleman and his quest for the most delicious burger. His name is Alex Brounstein and he’s the owner in question. A friendly chap, we had a pretty good conversation. Ever since that night, I’ve been watching the Grindhouse website like a hawk.
In the past few months, a facebook page and a twitter account have sprung up, the website has turned snazzy, and the menu (pdf) plays the role of teaser.
Speaking of which, the menu will remind you of Flip Burger Boutique insomuch as the selection is heavy on the burgers and shakes. Save for the trio of sides, the solitary salad, and the bowl of chili, the food is exclusively burger-tastic. However, Grindhouse is going for a more mainstream experience. You get your choice of protein (angus, turkey, veggie), size (1/3 lb or slider trio), and toppings. If memory serves me, all the burgers are scheduled to be freshly ground. While they have a few designed burgers on the menu, you are welcome to customize the hell out of your order. It looks like most people will get out of there for around $12-15 once you take into account tax, tag, and title.
I’m surprised that they aren’t sourcing their buns locally (Martin’s is the product of choice), but I can’t say that I’m happy or sad about that until I try a patty. Meanwhile, I will tell you that I’m disappointed that all burgers are cooked medium. Why can’t a guy just find a good, tasty, medium-rare burger that hasn’t been pressed to hell?
As for Brounstein himself … it looks like he’s jumped around a bit in his career. His latest endeavors included some time at Robert Charles Lesser & Co. (that’s a real estate advisory firm) and as a pro bono consultant for the aforementioned Sweet Auburn Curb Market.
I drove by before I left town and covertly managed to snap a few pics of the space. Unfortunately, those files are about 1,100 miles away right now, so you’ll have to wait for my initial visit or a trip of your own to see what it looks like inside. Alex seems like a competent guy and he’s most certainly friendly … so that’s a good start! While he doesn’t appear to have any true experience as a restaurateur, I know from our conversation that he’s been doing his research. PR is being handled by the young Lynn Lilly and Blackout Productions (website). If you haven’t heard of Lilly, check out a post about her on Adore Amore. More to follow after the 8th!
UPDATE: Since this post went up, Brounstein decided to move the opening back to the 14th. Hence, the strikethrough above.
Grindhouse Killer Burgers Restaurant Address & Information
209 Edgewood Ave, Atlanta, GA 30303 // 404.522.3444 // Grindhouse website // Grindhouse menu (pdf)
Thanks for the kind words. A few clarifications:
1) The Martin’s bun. It’s the best hamburger bun in America – I searched for a local baker that could replicate it and nothing even comes close.
2) Medium rare burgers – ask nicely and we can probably accommodate. I just had to put that on the menu for health department issues.
3) While we encourage you to customize a unique and crazy burger, we designed the menu to be extremely budget conscious as well. A cheeseburger, fries and a soft drink will cost you roughly $9.50 with tax.
Hope to see everyone out for some killer burgers starting Sept 14th!
Thanks for chiming in Alex.
1) Can’t knock you for that logic. Though I have always enjoyed H&F buns, you have to do what you think is best for your product.
2) So what happens if i’m a jack ass about it? 🙂 Kidding of course. Glad to know you’re willing to accommodate customers.
3) I think anything between $10-15 for a full meal is a fair price point for a full meal. No doubt people will be able to get out of there for less than the $12-15 price point I mentioned.
I went to Grindhouse today for their ‘soft opening’. I had a cheeseburger with grilled onions, lettuce and tomatoes and it was AWESOME! By far the best burger I have had in town!! You must try the onion rings too, this place was great. Had all of this for about $8 – if you are near downtown (or even if you need to travel), try this place out it’s the bomb!
Also, all the people working there are completely laid back and cool – you feel like staying and chatting with them way after you’re done eating. Can’t wait to go back for the grand opening on Monday and try out their chili and milkshakes. If you want a great lunch and fun environment hit up Grindhouse!
Sounds good! I won’t have a chance to get over there on Monday, but I’m looking forward to it shortly thereafter.