Burgers getting the artisan treatment isn’t exactly new. But none have taken the creation of the juicy stack quite as seriously as Carne.
It starts with a name that inspires confidence: chef Mauro Colagreco, the brainchild behind this innovative burger joint. His acclaimed eatery in France, Mirazur, has been awarded three Michelin stars, and ranks first on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. And naturally, he wouldn’t just serve up any normal stack; chef Mauro believes that even the humble hamburger can be prepped with care for the environment, and went about creating a dish that uses sustainable ingredients: meat from grass-fed animals, and organic vegetables from local producers.
Sample a taste of his unique burger creation at the 80-seater outlet in Singapore – the first international outpost for the gourmet burger joint. But don’t expect fancy table service; the vibe here is loud and lively, and service is largely self-served. Place an order, pick up a buzzer, and collect it from the open kitchen (the smell of smoke will permeate the space) once it is ready.
Buns are baked fresh daily by local farmers, then layered various fix-ins: fresh greens from local and organic farms; smoked hormone-free bacon; local cage-free eggs; and free-range, grass-fed Angus beef patties.
In other words, expect to pay good money for a burger at Carne. A classic burger, with a patty and veggies, goes for $19.50, and the complete experience, stuffed with veggies, cheese, bacon, and egg, will set you back some $28. For the hefty price, expect to get a chunky 160g patty, cooked medium rare with a juicy pink middle.
Also worth a try are two exclusive burgers: the crispy chicken burger ($18) spiced with chilli-pickled cucumber, and the beef and chimichurri burger ($24) brightened with herbaceous notes from the green sauce. But the sleeper hit has got to be the veggie burger ($16); the bright colours alone are worth marvelling at. Juicy portobello mushrooms, charred halloumi cheese, and tangy tomato tapenade come sandwiched between orange-hued, turmeric-spiced buns.
Since you’re already splurging, don’t forget to top up $10 for sides of fries and a drink. The triple-cooked fries are first steamed, frozen, then fried, resulting in a crispy yet fluffy strip that will convert those who aren’t typically fans of the thick-cut strips. Then, wash it all down with some grapefruit mate iced tea ($5.50), sweet milkshakes ($10), or some Carne beer ($10) made in collaboration with Trouble Brewing.
