George Motz, author of Hamburger America, discusses the vision of his burger joint and the importance of regional burger styles. Topics include limited burger menu, traditional hamburger assembly, smash burgers, Oklahoma onion burger history, burger buns, condiments, non-burger menu items, and future plans for guest burger chefs.
George Motz opened Hamburger America to showcase the diverse regional styles of hamburgers and educate the public on the true essence of an American hamburger.
George Motz emphasizes the importance of simplicity, high-quality ingredients, and traditional condiments in creating the perfect burger experience.
Deep dives
George Mose's Mission: Preserving the American Hamburger
George Mose, a self-proclaimed burger scholar and enthusiast, has opened his own burger joint in New York City called Hamburger America. The restaurant aims to showcase the diverse regional styles of hamburgers and educate the public on the true essence of an American hamburger. Mose's menu features a limited selection of carefully crafted burgers, including the Oklahoma Fried Onion Burger and the classic Midwestern Smash Burger. The ambiance of the restaurant is designed to evoke a throwback feel, capturing the spirit of traditional burger joints. Mose also plans to invite influential burger chefs to create their own signature burgers, allowing customers to experience a variety of burger styles.
The Art of Crafting the Perfect Burger
At Hamburger America, George Mose pays attention to even the smallest details in creating the perfect burger experience. He prioritizes simplicity, using high-quality ingredients like Martin's potato rolls, which strike the perfect balance between softness and sturdiness. Mose emphasizes the importance of the right condiments, including mustard, pickles, and onions, which have been integral to the history of the hamburger. He opts for traditional American cheese, highlighting its melting capabilities and engineered taste. While the menu stays focused on burgers, side dishes like shoestring fries complement the main attraction. Mose's dedication to delivering an exceptional burger experience extends to using handcrafted spatulas and fostering a welcoming atmosphere for diners.
The Significance of the Hamburger and Preserving Culinary History
George Mose's burger journey is driven by a deep appreciation for the hamburger's significance in American culinary history. For him, the hamburger is a uniquely American gastronomic icon that deserves to be taken seriously. Mose believes that burger places should be preserved and supported, similar to how the Japanese government preserves their food traditions. He hopes to elevate the status of hamburgers through his restaurant, book, and documentary series, spreading awareness of the importance of preserving burger culture. Mose's work has even been recognized by the National Archives, further validating the cultural value of the hamburger. His ultimate goal is to foster an appreciation for the burger and inspire others to recognize its culinary significance.