Frankie samples the Hard Rock Heineken burger

You know when Hard Rock Café do that really awesome thing of creating a delicious burger in conjunction with your favourite beer?

Well, they’ve only gone and done it again!

That’s right, for a limited time only you can be the proud consumer of the Heineken Brisket Burger.

Half a pound of prime beef patty, knighted with Heineken-braised brisket, caramelized BBQ onions, garlic aioli and melted gouda cheese.

Oh Hard Rock, you sure know how to treat a girl.

Not only that, but now I finally have an excuse to say; “Hands off my Hein-e baby!” which I’ve been so desperate to quote ever since I watched that Austin Powers movie.

Entering the establishment, you’re greeted like an old friend whether you’re a regular or a hard diner first timer. Authentically American, you’re never too far from a comically neon-lit sign or a fridge full of pony-necked beer, and you know what? I kinda love it.

We were seated in a booth giving us the perfect viewing platform of both kitchen and fellow diners. For a Monday, the place was hoppin’ with only two tables free from hungry patrons and piled-high plates. The exciting energy from both servers and eaters gave the restaurant the electric atmosphere it’s famous for, the loudly exclaimed; “Mmmm!” and “Ooohs!” teasing and hinting to what awaited us.

No need for menus, we got straight down to business and waited patiently for the new kid on the block; but not before wetting our appetites with the new plethora of exclusively concocted drinks HRC had to offer.

A chocolate box of cocktails were presented to our table, holding 6 completely new creations just gagging to be glugged.



Whilst all 6 were deliciously decadent, notable mention has to go to Angelo’s Passion. A shake-up of Superior Rum, Melon Liqueur, Passion Fruit Real and ginger beer which made for a seriously more-ish sipper.

If you’re keeping a clear head, I highly recommend the Pomegranate Cooler. Refreshing and sweet, you’ll be dubious of the sprig of rosemary which casually comes with, but strangely, it really works!

If an after-dinner drink is more your bag, skip dessert and instead indulge in the Bourbon Milk Punch. Warming flavours of Jim Bean Red Stag Bourbon and spiced brown sugar create the perfect post-dinner tipple and is super great if you enjoy your pud with a side of inebriation (and who doesn’t?!)

Sufficiently sloshed, we were ready to soak up the entire contents of the bar which took new residence in our stomachs with the main event. Bring on the burger.

Before delivery, you’d do well to notice that your table has a sufficient amount of napkins - regardless, ask for extra (trust me).

A fuss-free presentation of burg with side o’ fries is handed over, and is frankly all this offering needs. No gimmicks, no distractions, the smell alone is enough to get your mouth watering.

Handling the beast is a hard task in itself, but roll up your sleeves and get stuck in.

I embraced the burger like an old friend, taking a monster bite to enjoy every flavor the stack had to offer.



Rich and meaty, the thick beef patty and generous portion of soft brisket evoke the collaboration of Americana and classic Roast Dinner flavours you’ve been dreaming of. My fear of a dry burg were short lived thanks to the gooey gouda and sweetly caramelized onion components which oozed from every opening, treating you to a super juicy mouthful with every bite.

The light crunch from the salad and pickle provide gentle relief from the pile-up to prevent it from getting TOO meatalicious (if there even is such a thing?) With the aioli providing a gentle garlicky kiss with every mouthful – irresistibly moreish.

I would avoid eye contact with anyone whilst devouring this masterpiece. It’s drippy, a lil clumsy and totally unrefined, just as a bodacious burg should be. Just be sure to leave your elegance and grace at the door when you come in.



Hard Rock’s side are worth the trip alone so make sure you splurge the extra and upgrade for the Garlic and Herb or Parmesan fries – you can thank me later.

Devouring all evidence of the burger from the plate (and chin, hands and arms…) I was sufficiently satisfied with a sudden craving for a shower.

This latest special from HRC is a serious burger, for serious burger people. You really should try it.

Something I rate Hard Rock highly for is their passion for local produce and their good, honest in-house cookin’. There are not many high-profile restaurants which still adhere to cooking and creating dishes fresh on site every day – but HRC stay true to form to deliver consistently indulgent and flavoursome eats with every plateful.

What can I say? My love affair with Hard Rock’s burgers continues…

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Posted: Tuesday 29th November 2016
ID: 3462 - 1790