Red Robin

Years ago, Beef Boy and I were with the Maples in Latham, NY furniture shopping. We were looking for a place to eat lunch and we came upon this place called Red Robin. We had no idea what kind of eatery it was, but it looked like a respectable chain where we could get some artery clogging, heart stopping grub. They also had a liquor license, so everyone was happy! As we sat down, viewed the menu, we realized this was a Burger crack house, which also served up endless fries... and I mean, endless fries. We really enjoyed that meal and from that visit on, Beef Boy was "When are we going back?", "You know there's a Red Robin in Millbury... we should go!", to which my response would be "Millbury is about 2 hours away.... simmer down!" When it comes to the beef, he, and I say this will all the love in my heart, is a tunnel focused nag.

Much to my chagrin, recently Mr. Maples happened to be traveling on Interstate 91 and saw that the highway sign now said Red Robin was just opened near the Ingleside Mall in Holyoke. Holyoke is approximately 50 minutes away. Needless to say... I was sunk.

We happen to be going Boston, so the Maples and I were going to surprise him by taking him to the new location. Just before the sign came up, he actually brought up Red Robin. Cripes, could he smell the burgers? Does he have that certain burger sixth sense. Anyhoo... he then saw the sign and was thrilled to be having lunch there.

We were greeted warmly and sat at a nicely located table. After ordering up some adult beverages and not so adult beverages, Beef Boy and I ordered their signature burger, the "Red Robin Gourmet Cheeseburger". We were asked how we wanted it and we both ordered it our traditional medium with American cheese. The waitress replied to our medium request "Some pink?" and we replied yes.

On the menu, the description is as follows: "Red Robin Gourmet Cheeseburger - The original... and also the one upon which we have built our fame! Garnished with crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, pickles, onions, mayo & Red’s pickle relish. You choose your favorite cheese: Cheddar, American, Swiss, Monterey Jack, Bleu, Provolone or Pepper-Jack. $8.49"

The burgers arrived as you see it above. The burger was snugly encased in some wrapping to make eating easier. As we deconstructed the burger, we saw that it came with 2 pieces of American cheese, 2 thin tomato slices, and shredded lettuce. The sesame seed bun was lightly grilled. The onions and pickles were on the bottom portion of the bun, so the burger was surrounded by fresh veggies. Upon noshing into the burger, it appeared a nice medium pink and was juicy. It had a healthy sear on both sides with a crispy edge and both our burgers were cooked consistently. The bun was the perfect size for the patty.

We determined that it was the best drive-in style burger we have yet to consume with its traditional medium thickness that you would find in that type of establishment. It was what that genre of burger should be.

The endless fries were crisp, light, lightly salted, and were cut as a traditional steak fry. A delightful trip was had by all! Beef Boy and I agreed on a rating of 4 1/2 burgers.

We are happy to report it is a Coca-Cola establishment.

Red Robin
27 Holyoke Street
Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 315-4350