Just barely upgradable from 3.5 to a 4! I become so disappointed that the so-called best burgers in Cowtown are just NOT that great!
Let me do the splits...
History (4 stars)
* over 100 years old, the National 'Nash' Hotel was a transient hotel in Inglewood until it became a rubbydub dive for a few decades, and finally stood empty until a recent developer refurbished it completely into a middle-class resto-bar venue that's now quite attractive.
The 'Nash' burger and fries (barely 3.5)
* on my first gentle attack, the barely wide enough bun fell apart and squished this tall burger out all over the plate, and, despite my reluctance, forced me to clean up the mess with knife and fork.
* the patty was thick and solid, medium-rare real, and yet not all that noteworthy in flavour. I am still puzzled that almost no restos mix spices, herbs and diced delicacies into the meat before it's cooked! Do they not know that that is the secret to a truly great burger? Guess not...
* the 'foraged mushrooms' claimed the principal flavour in this thing! Although nicely cooked and tender, since when are mushrooms to do more than just complement other flavours and textures?!
* the shropshire cheddar hid in the mess, as did the butter lettuce, but the yellowed pickles added muted flavour.
* the small amount of onion jam looked interesting but added little.
* the fries were average decent, but a little parsley gave them colour.
* the bun ... oh yes, the bun, again. If you want to have a better burger - although also not great - try Burger 320 in Bridgeland. The Nash could take a lesson from them on how to make or buy buns that won't collapse with the slightest hand pressure.
The decor and atmosphere (4.25)
* excellent seating arrangements, with the bar separate from the dining area. Come in twos to party size and no problem accommodating you.
* table service was attentive and efficient.
* music ranges from duster to light jazz and soft rock, and under the vaulted ceiling at a volume that can both be heard and talked over.
* fairly busy on a sunny warm Saturday afternoon, but likely mid-week quiet and pleasant.
* parking is decent, esp for many non-payment sidewalk stalls?
Once again, disappointed.
For $20 not counting tax and tip, this burger is only okay. Certainly photos make it look better than it is, cos it ain't about price, but what the price should represent!
Surely someone can do better than plunk a big meat patty between a fall-apart bun among barely okay condiments, and call it a signature creation.
'Tis a shame!
Conclusion?
If you want big, go to Naina's on 17th Ave. near Stampede grounds.
If want flavour, go to The Rock at the other end of 17th SW near 14th St.
If want somewhat better, even go to 320 in Bridgeland and be intro'd to a bun that easily clamps the buger together.
None of these others are that far a drive from Inglewood, and certainly offer much better value.
Contrary to what Arnold said, I won't be back! read more