From New York's Garment Industry to Mendocino Burger Maestros

Thank god Jeff and Barbara left the garment industry in New York and found their way to Mendocino. In fact, I try to go in at least once a week to thank them. And as long as I am there, I have one of their burgers.

Actually, I think burger may be too common a term to describe the incredible creation Jeff prepares. Using only Roundman's grass-fed beef (or for a dollar more, you can have natural beef from the John Ford ranch), Jeff char-grills the burger over an open flame (it looks just like the wood-carved sign pictured here). Smothered in sauteed onions, crisp lettuce, tomatoes and cheese, you think you've died and gone to burger heaven.

Along with the burgers, they make some amazing fries (fresh-cut while you wait), and thick malts. Gigantic all-beef dogs, split down the middle, grilled and served up on a hamburger bun; fish and chips; grilled chicken; and steaks are all also found on the menu.

A visit to Mendocino is not complete until you've visited Mendo Burgers.