I’m thrilled to share that I created the burger for tonight’s $10 Burger and Beer special at Trenchermen. Each Wednesday the Wicker Park restaurant features a different burger, and this week they invited me to design it. This project has been one of the most enjoyable since I started The Kittchen four years ago—and at $10 for a burger and a beer, it’s a fantastic midweek treat.
So what’s on my ultimate burger? It starts with a juicy beef patty finished with melted gruyère, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, tender sautéed spinach, and a smear of whole grain mustard, all served on a buttery homemade roll. The gruyère melts enough to bind the components while still offering a distinct, savory bite. The whole grain mustard adds brightness that balances the earthy mushrooms and spinach, and the caramelized onions contribute a sweet, rounded finish.
To pair with the burger, the Trenchermen mixologists created a cocktail inspired by some of my favorite flavors. Called “Winter Is Coming”—despite the unusually warm weather right now—it blends vodka, rosemary simple syrup, cranberry juice, and ginger beer. I suggested a riff on a Moscow Mule, and they turned it into a refreshing, balanced drink that complements the savory burger.
You can join the celebration tonight at Trenchermen Bar. The burger special is offered one night only each week, with a new burger featured every Wednesday. Trenchermen is located at 2039 W North Avenue, just a few steps from the Damen Blue Line stop. I’ll be there with friends and would love to see you—$10 for a burger and a beer is a great reason to treat yourself midweek.