When it comes to burgers, Leeds has it all – from the cheap take away joints (that you really regret going to in in the morning) to the classier ‘gourmet’ options. So, when I went to Twisted Burgers Co.’s pop-up, in Jake’s Bar’s Call Lane kitchen, I didn’t expect anything out of the ordinary. But, I couldn’t have been more wrong!
Twisted Burger Company, it’s in the name; eating there is anything but your usual burger experience. With the likes of ‘Limp Brizket’ and the ‘Notorious P.I.G’ on the menu, you may wonder what exactly you are about to consume. However, there is nothing to fear, as you cannot possibly order the wrong thing. After a long, long time looking at the menu, fighting the temptation to order absolutely everything, I decided to try the “Holy Cluck” – 2 chicken patties, sausage, guacamole and jalapeno salsa, all served on a potato bun with a side of ‘Harley House Fries’, generously covered in a spicy Cajun Seasoning.
How to describe this culinary experience? In one word: incredible. The flavours complimented each other perfectly, with the spiciness of the jalapeno and the creaminess of the guacamole adding a certain Mexican twist to the traditional chicken burger.
My friend went for the ‘Notorious P.I.G’ – a real monster of a burger with a double bacon patty, American cheese and BBQ sauce. After all, you simply cannot go wrong with bacon. As a side, she chose the ‘Spice up Ya Life Fries’. Just a quick note – these are not for the weak. The ghost spice and paprika may make you feel as though your mouth is on fire if spicy food is not your thing. But, for the heat-seekers among you, dive right in. The portions are relatively large, especially the fries, so come with an empty stomach so that you can properly enjoy your ‘Twisted Burger’ experience.
For the vegetarians among you, the Co. won’t disappoint. There are two vegetarian options, both of which look equally delicious. The ‘Drop Dead Double Stuffed Falaf-Hell Burger’ layers up two falafel patties and grilled aubergine, topping it all off with sweet chilli and lime sauce, red onions and minted sour cream – a true explosion of flavours. The cheesier option is the ‘Simple Life’ – a double halloumi patty, roasted red pepper and jalapeno salsa. This may be the only time I have regretted giving in to my need for meat.
Whilst at Jake’s bar, we also got a chance to try their cocktails, a luscious alcoholic complement to our culinary consumptions. The “Vanilla Laika” was a winner – combining vanilla vodka and blackberry liquor with apple and lemon juices to create a sweet and fruity concoction. These were enjoyed in a cosy underground space whilst we nursed our full stomachs. With its own distillery making unique spirits, Jake’s arguably serves the most original cocktails in Leeds.
Overall, the Twisted Burger Company experience down at Jake’s Bar was a welcome change from the run of the mill beef and bun. To ensure you fully enjoy the experience, get there early and be ready to demolish the feast that awaits– the bar is a popular location for students and locals alike, so it gets very busy in the later hours. Celebrate the end of exams in style. Don’t leave until you are well and truly ‘Twisted’.
Sofia Dedyukhina
Burgers are served 5-10pm Monday to Friday, 12-10pm Saturdays.