Ninth Stop: District, Danforth St

We had heard a rumor that the secret of the District's burger is that they mix butter into the meat to keep it moist no matter how it's ordered. In the world of burger blogging, this struck us as a very good thing. So, naturally, we had to include it as one of our targets.

The atmosphere couldn't be any better. Just as you wouldn't ever know it was a cool place from the outside, once you're inside, you pretty much forget where you are and what's going on in the outside world. It's like a little oasis of sophistication without being stuffy or pretentious or highbrow. The staff is delightful, accommodating, and most likely overworked, by the looks of it. The menu is pretty insanely impressive (with things like "Buffalo Chicken Livers with Blue Cheese"), and they serve food late night. Before our burgers, every one of us couldn't help but order the oysters that were on special and incredible tasting. Please, please, go eat there, regardless of the fact that you might be inclined not to after finishing this review.

We never confirmed that this butter rumor was true or untrue, however, the meal solidified that there are a lot of good things going on with this burger. The meat was decidedly high quality and had good flavor. The bun was a buttery brioche that practically melted into the meat, and the toppings weren't overdone with anything more than lettuce, tomato, bacon, and a roasted red pepper spread that was practically tasteless. So all the elements of a 5 star burger were there. They stocked the kitchen thoughtfully and skillfully with everything it takes to make the perfect burger. Then, the meat hit the grill, and, sparing no cliche, shit hit the fan.

We all ordered our burgers medium or medium-rare. They all came back burnt on the outside and, for the most part, well-done on the inside. The first bites told it all. We all had little praise for the cooking job, even though we were trying to be generous and optimistic, since we were really having a good time otherwise. We even had an unfinished burger left by a fellow who, well, finishes everything, always. When asked why, his response was: "It tasted like burning. My medium-rare showed up as a hockey puck." It was ultimately disappointing to have this final, yet important, step ruin what could have been a very excellent thing.

What more can be said? There's little that can be done to save an experience like this, aside from going back, crossing your fingers, and hoping you get a different grill chef.

Scores out of 100

Taste: 63

Atmosphere: 97

Overall Experience: 77