What’s not to love, between the kid-friendly playgrounds, the fun neon signs, and photobooths? Oh yeah, and the killer burgers? You can choose from a menu of neighborhood-named burgers, or build your own from a sizeable but pretty conventional range of ingredients, also with veggie and chicken patty options. Sweet potato fries tend to outshine the bland regular fries; there’s no upcharge to substitute, so go for it.
The overall success of a Phil’s burger owes largely to the bun, which reminds us of a fluffy Hawaiian bread. Its sweetness contrasts the other flavors, giving depth and definition to grilled onions, cheddar or blue cheese, and chipotle or barbecue sauce. Patties are juicy, beefy, and charred to inspire a primitive lust in even the most delicate soul. The few non-burger options are also good, including a butterflied-and-grilled foot-long hot dog bathed in chili that’s a far cry from the cheap goo you find elsewhere. The mini sampler is a great way to try a few different versions, but to really capture the burger’s greatness, we recommend multiple, full-sized visits.
In addition to sodas and beer (Live Oak on tap), there are a few glasses of cursory Texas wine. Shakes are made with Amy’s Mexican Vanilla, chocolate, and fresh strawberries, but they’re underwhelming compared to the ice cream next door. Save the calories for the “crush’ns.”
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