There are food trends, and then there are foods that become part of American culture. The cheeseburger is one of them.
For S. Barrett Rinzler, founder and CEO of Square One Concepts and the visionary behind Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, the burger's staying power isn't just about taste. It's about tradition.
“This may sound overly patriotic,” he says, “but I think it somewhat harkens back to freedom.”
Rinzler believes the burger's roots are tied to post-World War II America, when families gathered around backyard grills and embraced the simple joys of homeownership, community, and summer.
“The backyard barbecue was part of that. Owning your own turf and grilling a burger with family and friends is like enjoying the spoils of your freedom.”
That emotional connection is what separates burgers from so many food trends. They evoke memories.
“It brings people back to summers growing up.”
At the same time, burgers continue to evolve. At Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers, unexpected creations like the Bacon PB&J Burger and Mmmac & Cheeseburger have become customer favorites.
“Who would have thought those combinations would become so popular? You never know until you try it.”
Yet Rinzler insists great burgers still come down to the basics.
“The bun and toppings are important, but they can't hide it if you don't have good meat.”
His ideal burger starts with quality beef and an 80/20 blend for maximum juiciness. His biggest grilling tip? Don't overcook it.
For Rinzler, however, the burger's true appeal is generational.
“My grandfather and his brothers were in the grocery business and raised their own cattle. He definitely enjoyed them, as did my father, and, of course, I do as well. The beloved American classic is passed down through our traditions.”
That tradition will be on full display this Fourth of July as Cold Beers & Cheeseburgers hosts the 4th Annual Summer Slider Eating Championship at Scottsdale's Red, White & Cool celebration at WestWorld. It's a fitting stage for a food that has become as American as the holiday itself.
“What's more all-American than hamburgers, hot dogs, baseball and apple pie? Food brings people together.”
coldbeers.com