ANNOUNCER: Jackie and Dutch head to Tacoma this week to get their burger fix at the newest addition, The Habit Burger Grill. The California chain has already expanded elsewhere in the PNW, now Tacoma can see what all the fuss is about.
JACKIE: Westgate is about to become the burger destination. With a fast food local onsite and another on the way, PLUS another hidden gem just a hop away, Habit Burger Grill gives you yet another excuse to indulge. On first impression, I was impressed with the fabulously friendly service as soon as I crossed the threshold and the well-kept interior.
DUTCH: It was clean! And I appreciated that I wasn't bombarded with the smell of fried food like so many burger joints. There are several options, each with its own appeal, but when I saw BBQ, bacon and caramelized onions all on one burger, I stopped looking and ordered the BBQ Bacon Charburger. This combination along with fresh lettuce, tomato, pickles and an option for cheese was as flavorful as I had imagined and nowhere near as messy. This is a nice hearty, charred burger that doesn't leave you rushing to the bathroom to wash your hands, a simple napkin will do.
JACKIE: The Santa Barbara Char had me at avocado. Juicy double patties were piled high with gooey cheese, avocado, caramelized onions, a beefy tomato slice, pickles, mayo and fresh lettuce between two perfectly toasted slices of sourdough bread. The only nitpick I could present is that the patty could use a bit more seasoning but the generous accompaniments made up for it. You could also ante up to the bar and load up on peppercinis or jalapenos, if you're the type who likes to go big or go home.
DUTCH: You can expect the basic vanilla, chocolate and strawberry shakes here, made to order and complete with whipped cream and a cherry. In addition, Habit has both coffee and mocha shakes as well. I instantly ordered the coffee shake, which was rich and creamy and the perfect addition to the smoky sweet flavor of my burger. There is also the option to turn any shake into a malt.
JACKIE: Don't skip past the On The Side menu. Crisp, battered onion rings and sweet potato fries can be nibbled upon. And the tempura green beans are a delight, boasting fresh-cut green beans with a light batter that highlights a perfectly, non-greasy crunch. I won't lie and tell you they are the guilt-free treat, but let's face it, you're not here to adhere to whatever it is that is the newest, hippest, diet trend.
DUTCH: Once again, you nailed it Jackie! I will be back for just the tempura green beans. But if you are looking for a true healthy option, there are several salad options including a Caesar, Cobb, or a BBQ chicken where you won't have to sacrifice flavor.
THE HABIT BURGER GRILL, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., daily, 2601 N. Pearl, Tacoma, habitburger.com