Ahead of the beef battle, Simon N. Ostheimer spoke to ringmaster and organiser Jay Leshark about the upcoming competition.
Why did you start the Facebook page Phuket's Best Burger?
At the time I was presenting a weekend radio show called the Weekend Brunch, where I would discuss food related topics from around the world. One week I wanted to know about the history of burgers. This opened up a can of worms, and meant each week I had something new to talk about, including a interview with a guy from America called Hamburger Harry who has a hamburger museum and a hamburger motorbike, and from then on I became slightly obsessed with the humble hamburger, and started my quest.
What is Burgerfest, and why are you holding it?
Burgerfest is a day to celebrate the burger, with burger eating competitions, bobbing for burgers, and then to finally crown Phuket’s Best Burger. Who doesn’t want to spend a day enjoying a burger, a drink or two and some live music? The initial plan is to host the first one on a small scale and then see how it grows.
There are so many restaurants, resorts, bars and even individuals who think they have the best burger on the island, so what better way to prove this than to have a burgerfest? This is really just for fun though. Yes, we will crown what the judges believe is Phuket’s best burger, but it's more about bringing the community together. I know that all the competitors will take it very seriously, but most importantly to me, is that this is a fun event – and that I get to try a few good burgers.
What, for you, makes the perfect burger?
This is what I love about burgers – everyone has a different opinion on what makes a perfect one.
What, for you, makes the perfect burger?
This is what I love about burgers – everyone has a different opinion on what makes a perfect one.
I dislike tomatoes in burgers, and I love gherkins, but the key part to any burger is of course the patty; the meat should have good meat to fat ratio of around 80/20. Condiments wise, bring on the yellow mustard, Thousand Island dressing, ketchup and mayo, maybe not all at once though. Bacon – well we all know bacon makes things taste better and cheese, good old American sliced cheese or jack cheese is perfect.
If I am honest I am not a huge fan of gourmet burgers, but hey if you offer me one I am not going to say no, but not sure I would pay US$2,000 for a burger with gold leaf, lobster, caviar and black truffle brie. Head to the Honky Tonk restaurant in London if you want to try that.
Finally, don’t make them too big – you want to get a full taste of everything in one bite.
Burgerfest 2015 is on Saturday March 21 at Royal Phuket Marina.
Burgerfest 2015 is on Saturday March 21 at Royal Phuket Marina.
For more information visit facebook.com/phuketsbestburger
Class Act Media are proud sponsors of the event.