My burgers were friendly delivered to my table by one of the owners of Petey’s, Peter Karalekas. We sat and chatted about his history and un-relentless vision for his burger empire, he lamented about his days in California and was passionately drawn to create a neighborhood burger restaurant for his native New Yorkers. I sat amazed at the bountiful bed of crispy hand cut French fries before me, flanked by a paper wrapped cheeseburger that was oozing gorgeous American cheddar and Petey’s special sauce, and a spicy Cajun Fire burger creation, both of which were making my mouth water with desire and greed.

While on my quest for the best burger, in my opinion, there are several different types of burgers. There are your haute-couture type burgers, bistro burgers, alternative gourmet burgers, home-style diner burgers and your fast-food smashed burgers. If you go to Petey’s expecting anything else other than the latter, you’ll be disappointed. Petey’s is an excellent smashed style burger with a hellishly good taste and flavor that will have you wanting more. Despite the sometimes-controversial comparison to In and Out burger, I found Petey’s beef to be the superior quality that is grounded and supplied by La Frieda’s Butchery -a renowned favorite of Shake Shack and Spotted Pig burger architects.

For all you In and Out fans instead of going West, try going East over the river you won’t be disappointed!