La Birra Bar: 20% tip on all orders?

I visited La Birra Bar in Wynwood today and left with very mixed feelings. Having tried three other popular burger spots in the area the same day, this was by far the most expensive—and unfortunately, the least satisfying.

Let’s start with the good. The burger had some redeeming qualities: the sauce, buns, and cheese were all excellent. It was cooked exactly the temp I asked for. The fries were a highlight—a unique mix between wedges and standard fries, thick-cut, well-seasoned, and perfectly flaky. They arrived piping hot and were a great addition to the meal. I also appreciated the rare inclusion of a fountain soda machine, which many burger spots in the area lack.

Now, the bad. The patty itself was underwhelming—bland and under-seasoned, which is a major letdown for a place that charges a premium price. For a burger to justify being much more expensive than its competition, it needs to shine across the board, and this one simply didn’t.

The biggest downside, however, was the 20% automatic gratuity. For a counter-order, self-service establishment to add that without transparency or an option to opt out is frustrating. I checked the menu and signage and couldn’t find any mention of this policy, which made it feel deceptive. Combined with the already high prices, it left a bad taste in my mouth.

Overall, La Birra Bar is mid-tier at best. While the fries and a few elements of the burger were good, they don’t justify the steep prices or hidden fees. If you’re looking for great burgers in Wynwood, there are better (and more reasonably priced) options nearby.