BURGERS, BEERS AND TATTOOS AT JERRY’S BURGER BAR

Jerry’s Burger Bar, despite what its name suggests, comprises of two gastropub locations found in Kloof and Observatory. Both of the ‘burbs are generally considered trendy, perhaps hipster, with the self-realisation of being the bearded man, drinking a craft beer in a burger bar in Observatory, sinking in during my recent visit.

Ranked as first out of five top five burger spots in Cape Town in 2015 by prominent Cape Town food blogger Relax With Dax, Jerry’s had a level of hype to live up to, so I visited the Observatory branch for lunch.

The theme of the burger bar is centred around the work of late American tattoo master Norman Collins, also known as Sailor Jerry, because of his distinct tattoo style which is prominent throughout.

The ‘After Burner’ did not do what I thought its name had initially implied, but it did leave an incredible burn in my mouth after the last bite. A chipotle-basted patty, layered with more-fiery-than-usual jalapenos, made it a contender for the hottest burger I’ve had – I’m usually the kind of guy who uses Sriracha in generous amounts so this is saying something. Conceding defeat, I had to wash it down with another Devil’s Peak First Light ale.

While I haven’t had enough of Jerry’s to agree that it belongs in the top five just yet, the ‘After Burner’ impressed me as did the sound of other burgers like the Sweet Baby Cheeses (slices of cheddar, swiss cheese and spicy cheese sauce) and the Jerry (smokey bbq basting topped with Swiss cheese, rocket and jalapeno – a house favourite). I’ll have to be back for those, and loosen my belt for that apple pie milkshake I’ve been hearing so much of!

With its lively atmosphere, TV screens for sport and late closing hours, Jerry’s Burger Bar is here to stay.

OF NOTE
Where 123 Lower Main Rd, Observatory
When Daily, noon – 2 am,
Cost Menu
Contact +27 21 447 8554, www.jerrysburgerbar.co.za

Photography Samantha Pinto/HSM Images