Who Invented the Burger?

Who Invented the Burger?

When it comes to “Who Invented the Burger” there are some pretty serious battles over the true original burger maker. But whoever the true prize belongs to, we salute all early burger pioneers. Americans love hamburgers, cheese burgers, veggie burgers, and sliders. We love them spicy, mild, sweet, savory, with the works, and plain. Add some bacon, avocado, maybe even an egg. We all get to have it our way! But, who brought us the masterpiece that is the hamburger? Who invented the burger?

What Is a Burger?

For most people a burger, or hamburger, is a bun and a patty (typically ground beef). There are many topping options, but the most popular are cheese, tomato, lettuce, onion, mayonnaise, mustard, and ketchup. 

How Did Hamburgers Originate?

The term hamburger did (most likely) come from Hamburg, Germany. But this is only the beginning of the story, and the true hamburger had not yet been formulated. In Hamburg, the Hamburg steak (a patty made from beef, garlic, and onions) was served with gravy, onion, and potatoes, not with a bun or even bread.

When Were Burgers Invented?

But America claims the true roots of the burger. It was most likely invented between 1870 and 1890 and popularized at state fairs. Hamburg steaks were popularized by German immigrants. The growing popularity of the hotdog and its portability is most likely why hamburg steaks started to be served with bread.

Who Invented the Burger? | Who Made a Burger First?

While there are many different opinions out there when it comes to who invented the burger, according to the Library of Congress the honor of inventing the hamburger goes to Louis Lassen of New Haven, CT. In 1900, Mr. Lassen put ground beef trimmings between toast for the convenience of his commuting customers. Some scoff at this claim because toast was used rather than bread.

Some other contenders for inventor of the burger are Otto Kuase of Germany and Charlie Nagreen, Oscar Weber Bilby, Fletcher Davis, and Frank and Charles Menches who were all from the US. Since a lot of these burger origin stories were around the same time frame, it is very unlikely there is a true inventor of the burger. More likely many people were inspired around the same time. So the truth may depend on your diehard definition of a burger or it may just be that several people in different places had some awesome ideas around the same time.

If you are looking for an outstanding burger and you are visiting or live in St. Pete’s Beach, Florida, Burger-ish is the burger restaurant for you. We didn’t invent the burger, but you may just think we reinvented it! Enjoy mouth-watering fresh all-beef burgers (or a beyond burger for you vegetarians out there) with Latin-Caribbean fusion flare! Check out your favorite sports on our 12 big screen TVs, live music on the weekends, the monthly comedy show or chill on our gorgeous patio. You can even order pick up or delivery if you just want to try the food and go hang at the beach. Burger-ish also offers yummy wings, sliders, empanadas, crab cakes, coconut shrimp, sandwiches, specialty cocktails and so much more. Check out the menu. You will easily find something for the whole family. Come see us at 4755 Gulf Blvd, St Pete’s Beach, FL 33706. Look for the green umbrellas. We look forward to feeding you! Learn more about Burger-ish.

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