Welcome to Legitsville. I never knew a burger could be this great. It's perfect in every way. The very existence of this burger makes me want to move to Cumberland. Like... Right. Next. Door.
The case for the price: I'd pay at least $20 for a burger like this (it's just $11). The attention to detail and the thoughtfulness of what goes into it is well worth the price. After you factor the local ingredients, the homemade pickles and sauce and the overhead of Cooks, no one is getting rich off this burger. It's good, honest and authentic food served with a passion for making the BEST. If you don't want to pay for that, go to a chain and eat something from a factory.
The case for processed cheese: As a cheese lover, real cheddar is one of my favorite things. BUT NOT ON A BURGER. Real cheddar "sweats" and doesn't remain creamy as it cools. This ends up in a separated, congealed mess that wouldn't do this burger justice.
The case for simplicity: If you're looking for chipotle pesto wasabi mayo and avocado pineapple salsa on your burger, go to Chili's or some overhyped hipster joint. Cooks is making real burgers for real people. The fries are homemade and handcut from kennebec potatoes. The real deal.
The people at Cooks are making something very special here. The home made coleslaw is amazing and the fries are #WINNING. The space itself is energetic and friendly. If it's busy when you arrive, just get in line and tables open up all the time. I'd stand in an empty parking lot in minus 30 to eat their...
Read moreCOOKS is the quintessence of burger joints. Not just for the Comox Valley, or Vancouver Island, or BC, or Canada but for all burger joints in the world. What they have to offer is the extremely scarce experience of extraordinarily delicious, yet straightforward options. It is a lost art to have a menu where every item can hold its own, while balancing simplicity and distinct character. COOKS lets their menu speak for itself. The priority to serve you a top-of-the-line meal is apparent, and their knowledge of the mighty burgers history is evident. They know very well that it must be paired with a cold-beer or a premium milkshake and fries with a personality. Sadly, I have to drive an hour to visit them so I have yet to ever pair a brew with my burger on their perfect pretty patio. Would I love it if they franchised and started World Burger Domination? Mayhap. But I assume what makes them special is their team and leadership, so unless they receive access to state-of-the art cloning technology, I will find solace in their one and only Cumberland location.
tl;dr: Go to COOKS. Eat anything. Leave full and happy. Look at their funny social media accounts. Get sad and hungry cause you're not at COOKS. Repeat.
(Thank you COOKS. Your restaurant and marketing bring me joy. I hope you and your team thrive forever or for however...
Read moreDuring my extensive travels, I have sought out the ultimate comfort food: the hamburger. Among the countless contenders, Cook’s establishment stands out above the rest, offering a burger that is unparalleled in quality and taste. This no-frills eatery focuses on a limited menu, ensuring that every dish is crafted with exceptional skill and using only the finest ingredients.
The simplicity of their offerings is a testament to their dedication to perfection. The menu is straightforward, free from any fusion or bizarre interpretations of the classic burger. The burgers and fries are delivered promptly, maintaining their heat and freshness, which is a rare delight in the fast-paced world of dining. Hot hamburgers; imagine that!
While the experience is nearly flawless, there is one minor suggestion for improvement: the provision of more substantial napkins. Given the caliber of their burgers, a napkin that can withstand the juicy goodness would be a welcome addition.
In conclusion, if there is a better hamburger out there, I have yet to discover it. This restaurant has set a new standard for me.
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