The Juicy Lucy, a mouth-watering burger filled with melted cheese, has been a staple of Minneapolis cuisine for decades. This delectable dish has gained popularity across the United States, with many restaurants and bars offering their own versions. However, the question remains: where does the Juicy Lucy burger come from? In this article, we will delve into the history of the Juicy Lucy, exploring its origins, evolution, and the establishments that claim to be its birthplace.
A Brief History of the Juicy Lucy
The concept of a cheese-filled burger dates back to the early 20th century, but the modern Juicy Lucy, as we know it today, is believed to have originated in the 1950s in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The city’s South Side, particularly the area around Cedar Avenue, was home to numerous bars and restaurants that served burgers with a twist. One of these establishments, Matt’s Bar, is often credited with inventing the Juicy Lucy.
Matt’s Bar: The Birthplace of the Juicy Lucy?
Matt’s Bar, located at 3500 Cedar Avenue South, has been serving burgers since 1954. According to the bar’s owner, Matt Bristol, the Juicy Lucy was created by accident when a customer asked for a burger with cheese inside the patty. Bristol, who had previously worked at a local meat market, experimented with different cheese fillings and eventually settled on a combination of cheddar and American. The Juicy Lucy was born, and it quickly became a staple on Matt’s Bar menu.
A Recipe for Success
So, what makes Matt’s Bar Juicy Lucy so special? The secret lies in the preparation. The burger features a beef patty filled with a generous amount of melted cheese, which is then topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, and a slice of pickle. The bun is toasted to perfection, and the entire burger is served on a paper plate. The simplicity of the dish belies its complexity, as the combination of flavors and textures creates a truly unique dining experience.
The 5-8 Club: A Rival Claimant
While Matt’s Bar is often credited with inventing the Juicy Lucy, another Minneapolis establishment, the 5-8 Club, also claims to be the birthplace of this beloved burger. Located at 5800 Cedar Avenue South, the 5-8 Club has been serving Juicy Lucys since 1928, although the original recipe was slightly different from the one we know today.
A Different Take on the Juicy Lucy
The 5-8 Club’s Juicy Lucy features a beef patty filled with a blend of cheddar and Swiss cheese, which is then topped with a slice of bacon, lettuce, tomato, and a dollop of mayo. The burger is served on a toasted bun, and the entire dish is presented on a plate. While the 5-8 Club’s Juicy Lucy is delicious in its own right, it differs significantly from Matt’s Bar version.
A Friendly Rivalry
Despite the rivalry between Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club, both establishments have a deep respect for each other. In fact, the two restaurants have engaged in a friendly competition, with each trying to outdo the other in terms of Juicy Lucy quality and innovation. This rivalry has benefited burger enthusiasts, as both Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club continue to push the boundaries of what a Juicy Lucy can be.
The Evolution of the Juicy Lucy
Over the years, the Juicy Lucy has undergone significant changes, with various restaurants and bars offering their own unique takes on the classic burger. Some establishments have experimented with different types of cheese, while others have added new toppings or ingredients.
Modern Twists on a Classic
Today, you can find Juicy Lucys with a wide range of fillings, from traditional cheddar and American to more exotic options like brie and prosciutto. Some restaurants have even added non-traditional ingredients, such as peanut butter or bacon jam, to create a truly unique dining experience.
A Burger for Every Taste
The evolution of the Juicy Lucy has resulted in a burger that can be tailored to suit every taste. Whether you prefer a classic cheese-filled patty or something more adventurous, there’s a Juicy Lucy out there for you.
Conclusion
The Juicy Lucy burger is a beloved Minneapolis staple that has gained popularity across the United States. While the question of who invented the Juicy Lucy remains a topic of debate, one thing is certain: this delicious burger has become an integral part of American cuisine. Whether you visit Matt’s Bar, the 5-8 Club, or one of the many other establishments that serve Juicy Lucys, you’re sure to experience a truly unique and mouth-watering dining experience.
Visit Minneapolis and Taste the Juicy Lucy for Yourself
If you’re a burger enthusiast or simply looking to try something new, Minneapolis is the perfect destination. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, the city has something to offer everyone. So why not plan a trip to Minneapolis and taste the Juicy Lucy for yourself? Your taste buds will thank you.
| Establishment | Address | Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Matt’s Bar | 3500 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55407 | (612) 722-7072 |
| The 5-8 Club | 5800 Cedar Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55417 | (612) 823-5858 |
By visiting Matt’s Bar or the 5-8 Club, you’ll be able to experience the Juicy Lucy in all its glory. Don’t forget to try other Minneapolis staples, such as the Jucy Lucy at the Nooklyn Center, or the Lucy at the Blue Door Pub. With so many delicious options to choose from, you’re sure to find the perfect Juicy Lucy to suit your taste.
What is a Juicy Lucy Burger?
A Juicy Lucy Burger is a type of burger that originated in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It consists of a beef patty filled with melted cheese, typically American, cheddar, or a combination of both, inside the patty rather than on top. This unique design allows the cheese to melt and become gooey as the burger cooks, creating a juicy and flavorful experience for the consumer.
The Juicy Lucy Burger is often served on a toasted bun with various toppings such as lettuce, tomato, onion, and condiments. The burger has gained popularity in recent years, with many restaurants and bars in Minneapolis and beyond offering their own versions of the Juicy Lucy. Despite its widespread popularity, the origins of the Juicy Lucy Burger remain a topic of debate among locals and food enthusiasts.
Who invented the Juicy Lucy Burger?
The origin of the Juicy Lucy Burger is a topic of ongoing debate, with two Minneapolis restaurants, Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club, claiming to be the birthplace of the burger. Matt’s Bar, a casual eatery in the Powderhorn Park neighborhood, has been serving Juicy Lucy’s since the 1950s. The restaurant’s owner, Matt Bristol, claims to have invented the burger as a way to differentiate his menu from other local eateries.
The 5-8 Club, a restaurant located in the Nokomis neighborhood, also claims to be the originator of the Juicy Lucy Burger. According to the restaurant’s website, the burger was created in the 1920s by a former owner who wanted to create a unique and flavorful burger. Despite the conflicting claims, both Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club are widely recognized as two of the best places to try a Juicy Lucy Burger in Minneapolis.
What makes a Juicy Lucy Burger unique?
A Juicy Lucy Burger is unique in that the cheese is placed inside the beef patty rather than on top. This design allows the cheese to melt and become gooey as the burger cooks, creating a juicy and flavorful experience for the consumer. The cheese is typically placed in the center of the patty, and the burger is cooked until the cheese is melted and the patty is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
The Juicy Lucy Burger is also unique in that it is often served with a variety of toppings, including lettuce, tomato, onion, and condiments. However, the toppings are not the main focus of the burger – the gooey cheese and flavorful beef patty are the stars of the show. The combination of the melted cheese and savory beef creates a flavor profile that is both familiar and unique, making the Juicy Lucy Burger a must-try for burger enthusiasts.
How do you make a Juicy Lucy Burger?
Making a Juicy Lucy Burger is a relatively simple process that requires a few key ingredients, including ground beef, cheese, and a bun. To start, form the ground beef into patties and place a slice of cheese in the center of each patty. Fold the beef over the cheese to create a seal, and cook the burger in a skillet or on a grill until it is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
Once the burger is cooked, assemble the Juicy Lucy by placing it on a toasted bun and adding your desired toppings. Lettuce, tomato, onion, and condiments are all popular toppings for the Juicy Lucy Burger. Be careful when taking a bite, as the cheese can be hot and gooey. With a little practice, you can create a delicious Juicy Lucy Burger at home that rivals those served at Minneapolis restaurants.
Where can I try a Juicy Lucy Burger?
If you’re looking to try a Juicy Lucy Burger, Minneapolis is the place to go. Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club are two of the most famous places to try a Juicy Lucy, and both restaurants have been serving the burger for decades. In addition to these two restaurants, many other eateries and bars in Minneapolis offer their own versions of the Juicy Lucy Burger.
If you’re not in Minneapolis, don’t worry – the Juicy Lucy Burger is becoming increasingly popular, and many restaurants across the country are now offering their own versions of the burger. You can also try making a Juicy Lucy Burger at home using a recipe found online or in a cookbook. With a little practice, you can create a delicious Juicy Lucy Burger that rivals those served at Minneapolis restaurants.
Is the Juicy Lucy Burger a Minneapolis staple?
Yes, the Juicy Lucy Burger is a Minneapolis staple. The burger has been a part of the city’s culinary scene for decades, and it is widely recognized as one of the city’s signature dishes. The Juicy Lucy Burger is often mentioned alongside other Minneapolis staples, such as the tater tot hotdish and the walleye sandwich.
The Juicy Lucy Burger is also a source of civic pride for Minneapolis residents, who are fiercely loyal to the burger and the restaurants that serve it. The burger has been featured in numerous food publications and has been the subject of several food challenges and competitions. Whether you’re a lifelong resident of Minneapolis or just visiting, trying a Juicy Lucy Burger is a must-do experience.
Can I customize my Juicy Lucy Burger?
Yes, you can customize your Juicy Lucy Burger to suit your tastes. While the traditional Juicy Lucy Burger features a beef patty filled with American cheese, many restaurants offer variations that feature different types of cheese, meats, and toppings. Some popular customizations include adding bacon or caramelized onions to the burger, or using a different type of cheese such as cheddar or blue cheese.
In addition to customizing the toppings, you can also customize the cooking method and level of doneness to your liking. Some restaurants offer the option to cook the burger to a specific temperature, such as medium-rare or well-done. Others may offer the option to cook the burger on a grill or in a skillet. By customizing your Juicy Lucy Burger, you can create a unique and delicious meal that suits your tastes and preferences.