Valentine’s Day is THIS Sunday. In case you haven’t booked a restaurant, have little money to do so, or if you are married to a one Backyard Blogger,White Castle has just what you’ll require. Reserve your table for two, which will be complete with candles and flowers. Oh, and you won’t have to wait in line for your Sliders; the Castle will also spoil you with tableside service on this lover’s eve.
There was a time in my life that I would not step foot nor pedal near a Burger King. I recall being burnt out on Whoppers; something to do with my grandmother discovering that she loved them and always wanting to go on a Whopper-run when we kids came over.
But, I got over it, or she did, and I would occasionally visit the BK. It’s always been pretty low on my list, though.
Lately, I have gone to Burger King more than I typically would. The main reason for this is, it is the closest fast food restaurant to Shelby Farms from my side of Memphis. One last stop to get something to snack on or feast on, if I’m starving before taking Backyard Baby to the park.
Although I’ve wavered in my taste for Burger King years in and out, one thing remains constant for the King. They have it their way. Despite pressure to push healthier fast food or smaller portions, despite media controversy over their commercial ads, they continue to do it their way. The Whopper has gotten Angry, the King torments teens in their sleep, flirts with housewives.
So, here are some observations I’ve come away with during these recent comebacks to Burger King:
The Cheesy Tots are worth it. They are a well-rounded snack for the on-the-run and hungry. The outside is like a chewy yet crackly crust you’d find on top of a ramekin of hot mac & cheese. Perfect for sealing in the runny, savory and substantial hash brown casserole packed inside.The first time I got them I waited too late to eat them, so by the time I did, they were cold and not justified. I could tell, though, so I vowed to try them again. Yes; these are best eaten right after you sit the bag in your car, while you are driving down the road. Ketchup is great on them, but not required.
I like the BK Burger Shots. Ever since “burger shots” have become the new chicken tender in restaurants I have been skeptical. I hate chicken tenders. Just order a whole chicken breast or hamburger, since you are eating the equivalent anyway. I was also apprehensive for the sake of Krystal and White Castle; they have earned their fame and my respect for doing these little burgers right. Why should someone else take that and water it down? One day, I was in the mood for a burger, but did not want to eat a heavy meal. So, I ordered the Burger Shots from BK (partly, because I could justify it as doing a BYB.com taste-test) and, to my surprise, I liked them. The patties were thin, like I hoped, but they emitted a great smokey flavor throughout the small sandwich. Each bite gave off an aroma of being at a cookout, possibly more effective than a Back Yard Burger could be at that.
I leave you with this; another of my Burger King observations as of late. This is the commercial I have loved to watch with utter disapproval. My condemnation keeps me coming back. That is just how BK would have it.
