Burgers and Dogs on the Grill

Tis the season for grilling outside! Man, do I love it! I appreciate all the wonderful things that can be prepared on the grill. In our house we have done seafood things, vegetable things, chicken and pork entrees and the ever popular corn on the cob with herb butter.
I tend to favor a really well made burger or good quality hot dogs that show a little grill marks and have that snap when you bite into them. We have certainly tried a variety of brands in our time. But, we have narrowed it down to 2 different hot dogs that we seek in eating. Hebrew National and Nathan's. Both of these brands give us exactly what we're looking for in a great quality hot do. As for finishing these off, I tend to go "old school" with the basic ketchup and a nice grainy mustard. Relish is sometimes used in our house. Chili, onions and grated cheddar sometimes find room at the table. But, chili dogs are a totally different thing for another time.
Burgers are something I could eat every day, once a day. There are some great restaurants that produce an awesome concoction burger. But, some of the best burgers we have had are at home on the grill. We tend to buy a 60/40 or 70/30 ground beef. The lean meats just don't give us the natural flavor we are looking for. Sometimes to produce a more "gourmet" burger we will do a blend with ground lamb, or pork. To add variety, we sometimes will add garlic, fresh herbs, grated Parmesan cheese or Worcheshire (can't say it right or spell it right) sauce to the mixture. Then there come the toppings:

• Smoked Gouda
• Smoked Cheddar
• Bacon
• Avocado/Guacamole
• Lettuce, Arugula
• Spinach
• Tomato
• Mayonnaise
• American Cheese
• Sauteed Mushrooms
• Grilled Onions
• Basil Pesto
• Pepper Jack Cheese

and the list can continue, usually does in our house and what is at the grocery store on sale!

Dining Synergy

Due to the nature of our business as event planners and designers we are eating dinner out a lot more. Whether entertaining clients, having planning sessions or on the job trying to catch a quick bite. We try to experience more than "drive- thru" goodness. We know that time is limited and convenience comes first. But, for us, a few thing remain important... good food and a great dining experience. Occasionally, it is nice to be taken care of!
Having spent time in college studying interpersonal communications and worked as a service person in a restaurant, I find that it all relates to each other. The experience starts with the greeting and should continue from there. Food menu knowledge and preparation are elements that we look for. It is not necessary to become our best friend in five minutes. But, a pleasant introduction and good listening skills go a long way in my eyes. Contemplation is an excellent opportunity to impress me and recommendations are often appreciated. Usually, this means offering an appetizer/starter.
We tend to start high in the gratuity of the total experience and the total amount can fluctuate higher or lower based on the relationship with our service person. Give me a name, a pleasant greeting, some space and a little attention during our time together. While we are aware that the food is key in establishing a repeat location, bad service or a negative experience ways in on getting a loyal customer.