New York - December 13, 2006

Double Trouble

Stand and Brgr Open

Things that you can have too much of: sunshine, scotch, sex (with the wrong people).

Things that you can’t: burgers.

So tip your hat to not one but two new burger joints opening this week.

Stand
Decor: Chainsaw-chiseled, communal wood tables. Open space. Black and white art installation provides a nostalgic backdrop.
Pedigree: It’s the latest Village venture from Jonathan Morr (of Republic fame).
Service: Hit the counter for take-out. Sit pretty at the bar with a Road Trip (spiced rum, milk, orange, pineapple).
No. 1 pick: Peppercorn sauce gives ketchup a run for its burger-topping money. Mashed sweet potatoes with Parmesan are heaven-sent.
Off the menu: To-go containers are biodegradable. So you can chow down at home in your underwear — guilt free.

Brgr
Decor: The Chelsea space harks back to collegiate days: banquettes, high-back bar stools, and kegs from Brooklyn Brewery.
Pedigree: Chris Russell — remember him from Moomba? (Full disclosure: He’s an old friend.)
Service: Order at the bar. They’ll bring it to you at one of the communal tables.
No. 1 pick: A beef burger with Roquefort and bacon, topped with sweet onion marmalade. (All hormone- and steroid-free cuts come from a boutique supplier in Montana.) Good options for vegetarians, too.
Off the menu: They’ll be serving the same chocolate chip cookies made famous at Moomba. (Just as fantastic when you’re sober.)

Two good to be true.

Stand, 24 East 12th Street, between 5th Avenue and University Place (212-488-5900 or standburger.com); Brgr, 287 Seventh Avenue, between 26th and 27th Streets (212-488-7500).

  Lunch Spot, Meatheads, Milkshakes, Veg Head