Blog: Burgers, burgers and more burgers in the Gables

By Irela Bagué / Citizen Contributor

If you have ever craved a good burger, then Coral Gables is rapidly becoming one of our community’s top places to find one.

I recently visited BGR the Burger Joint, which opened recently in the old Fat Burger space at 232 Miracle Mile. Although I do miss Fat Burger, at least folks can still find a good burger in the same spot just with an ’80s twist on the music and decor.

BGR, originally from Washington, D.C., is now a chain offering a blend of prime, dry-aged, all-natural, hormone-free, grain-feed beef (that’s a mouthful…literally). Apart from the traditional burger you can also try veggie, tuna, Greek and even a lobster burger! They also offer a 9-pound burger for free to anyone brave enough to eat it all in one sitting. It comes with a complimentary bottle of Maalox (LOL). I went for the traditional cheeseburger and was pleasantly surprised with the quality of the meat.

I also liked the freestyle soda fountain dispenser; kids will love mixing Sprite with strawberry soda. And parents can also enjoy a cold one -- they offer draft beer as well as some wine selections.

For those who want a more gourmet-style burger, try One Burger located at 367 Alhambra Circle next to The Globe. This place has been in the Gables for years and consistently serves up tasty traditional and gourmet burgers. They pride themselves on being anti-fast food style and only use the very best ingredients. My favorite is the Frita Cubana seasoned Cuban style with finely chopped raw onions, house-made shoestring fries and tomato sauce.

Speaking of fast-food style, who can say “no” to those Five Guys burgers, not even President Obama can. The Gables location is conveniently located across the University of Miami at 1540 South Dixie Highway. As greasy and high-calorie as these burgers may be, they are just irresistible. I like the simplicity of their menu; they just serve burgers, fries in a bag, hot dogs and grilled cheese sandwiches…oh, and the peanuts.

Last but not least is Burger Bob’s at the Granada Golf Course, 2001 Granada Blvd. The little, out-of-the-way diner has been a local secret spot forever. Bob Magruder will make sure that your burger is made to order and is the perfect size, not too big and not too small, just right.

So, the next time you’re in the Gables with a hamburger craving, there are plenty of places to visit to satisfy your appetite.