Update on Best Burgers in Houston

"I ate the burger you were afraid to order."

That's what (my self-appointed side kick) Abbie told me moments after finishing the Monster burger at Stanton's. For the record, I wasn't scared, but the statement was both made and funny.

I have always maintained that if you're going to run your mouth, you better be prepared to back up what you say. As much as I run my mouth (Leighton told me last week, and he actually seemed surprised when he said it, that I talk a lot of shi%t. Way to step out on a limb, Frenchy) I'm always prepared to back it up. But I have to give respect to other people who do the same. There are a lot of people who do not back up what they say (I'm not naming names, but you know who you are).

Which brings me to my point. Abbie, who runs her mouth and rarely backs it up, and I went to lunch last week. After hearing good things about Stanton's (both from long-time reader Crystal and various Internet reviews) we were both interested in trying a new place for burgers. Also, the line at Lankford Grocery was around the block.

By way of background information, Stanton's big claim to fame is being home of the monster burger. 2 huge patties. Bacon. Numerous slices of cheese. All the veggies, including red and white onions. When the man at the counter heard Abbie order, he did a double take. He was shocked. So, at Stanton's, you order inside and take the food to go. There are no tables. We did not know this, so we decided to eat in the car. The photo above is taken inside my car on the arm rest. The monster burger is nearly as wide as the arm rest. To call it a monster is apt.

I ordered the Rio Jalapeno burger. The man at the counter cautioned me that the burger came with bacon. I was ok with that, even if I was somewhat surprised. The menu said nothing about bacon, but bonus bacon is bonus bacon. It's like finding $10 in your pocket.

Both burgers were good. Not better than Lankford Grocery. Not better than Miller's Cafe, or Christian's Tailgate. I suppose it would be on or close to the same level as Southwell's. I maintain my burger theory (which I stole from Nathan's hot wing theory. Thanks bud.) Anyone can make an average burger (or wing) but it takes something truly special to make an incredible burger. By the same token, it would take either an out of control fire or sheer incompetence to make a really bad burger (or wing). To be noteworthy, you have to try something bold. Stanton's monster burger is just a big burger which tastes pretty good. 6.5 to 7 out of 10.