Ray's Hellburger

Ray's Hellburger

1713 N. Wilson Blvd., Arlington VA 22209 (map)

Ray's Hellburger is a phenomenon. In recent years, 'serious' burger joints have become a trend, and Ray's still outshines most. If you want to know what a burger should be, drop in for a very affordable and satisfying lunch. The burgers are made with the trimmings of steak from Ray's the Steaks steakhouse. They trim them further and grind them right there at Hellburger. Fresh as you can get.

My recommendation...go for medium rare with lettuce, tomato and Heck Sauce (slightly spicy, mayonnaisey goodness). The dill pickle spears are very good, and I'm picky about that.

It's loud, and at first it seems like you'll never get a table. They strictly enforce ordering prior to sitting, but it works. If you don't mind eagerly eyeing tables as people try to finish their meals, and having no precedence assigned to who gets to sit down next, you'll sit plenty of time before your food comes.

The root beer on tap is a special treat.