Zaitzeff

It is a complete mystery to me how this could possibly make it on anyone's top ten list. Unless, I suppose, that top ten is is over-rated burger joints with weird locations, peculiar table configurations and no bathrooms, but I strongly doubt that. Putting Zaitzeff on your top ten list is criminal. You are not doing your job, so I need to eat more burgers. My scorecard totaled a measly 52.

The burger, frankly, was not very good. It was quite large, spilling out over the english muffin is was precariously wrapped in. The burger was overcooked, "we do everything medium". The fries were plentiful, and the mix of sweet potato with yukon gold is nice, but they were soggy and unsatisfying. Although advertised as Kobe beef, it was bland, uninteresting and suspiciously reminiscent of the bad bits of the cow.

The location did not help, the entire front was open to a particularly unappealing corner in new york. Although I was not brave enough to venture to the bathroom, I understand it was a complete disaster. The staff claimed they didn't have a bathroom, "but you can...." and trailed off pointing up the starts. I think you have to sneak past people chopping stuff and spreading swine flu.

The beer selection was small, but very cold, so that was great.

Sweet holy moses this place sucks.

Corner Bistro

This place was AWESOME! Especially compared to last week's debacle. The only thing I regret is that I didn't really learn anything this week.

The menu is simple enough that even foreigners and other brainless people with no brains should be able to order the food they really want. The only ambiguity was what the "bistro burger" consisted of, but the helpful staff was obviously prepared for our inquiry and briskly informed us that it's a burger with cheese AND bacon. Be careful when ordering wine in this place; one unfortunate patron in the next booth found out the hard way that if you ask for Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, you end up with generic red wine. Beer is easier to order and very cheap.

The venue is a no-nonsense feeding facility with fast moving lines and no frills. The place was totally packed at 7pm and we had to wait in line for around 20 minutes. Every square inch of the table we sat at was covered with both kinds of carved-graffiti: hilarious and vulgar. There was also some excellent bird watching for those not afraid of a dirty look or two.

The burger itself was a no-nonsense affair. A simple bun, cheese and deep fried bacon with the usual garnish of lettuce, tomato, onions and pickles. Patty is thick and juicy and delicious. The fries are great though the portion is smallish.

Overall, I enjoyed the experience thoroughly. The shortcomings in the staff and the ambiance seem deliberate and just add to the experience. I will be going back...