Restaurants

Self-respecting Londoners will probably steer a wide berth around Burger Shack’s location, yet it’s worth asking what this place offers tourists. Well, northerners will appreciate the unlikely appearance of chips and gravy on the menu in the guise of ‘wet fries’; Americans will find the spirits and mixers well-priced; and families will easily get a seat (on a Saturday lunchtime there were only three tables occupied, while nearby Hamburger Union was packed). With pictures of movie stars on the walls, likeable pop-soul music in the background, and – unlike most ‘gourmet’ chains – table service, the Shack is pleasant enough. Unusually, staff ask how you want your burgers done, and relish is considerately put to the side. Vegetarians have a decent choice too: beanburgers, quorn burgers, big mushrooms or falafels. Flaky supermarket-style buns aside, it seems all Burger Shack is missing is customers.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2009