6.9

A dimly lit historic dive bar with nautical motifs all around- totally unique haunt and a really special atmosphere. 

This was the first joint I ventured to that actually featured a signature house burger- so upon looking over the menu and seeing "The Fox Burger" listed first on the burger section, expectations and optimism began to swell. 

This signature burger featured the typical lettuce tomato & onion, but then elevated things with a pimiento cheese and generous bacon topping. These additions both made their own positive contributions to the burger eating experience, but the pimiento cheese spread that adorned the burger would have been better if it were served hot, rather than cold.

The patty itself was pretty good, nothing crazy noteworthy here- if anything it as a little small. The patty's role in the overall orchestra of this burger was lackluster, and its diminutive nature highlighted some structural imbalances in the ensemble of all the elements. The bottom bun didn't really support the burger and got all floppy in no time, the pickles were at thick as the burger patty, and the tomato was also too unwieldy for the overall construction of the entree. 

So while an great burger, a noble attempt at putting a signature spin on things, and an impeccable atmosphere- I can't see myself making a trip here specifically for this burger... so for that reason I can't in good conscious let it crack into the 7's. 

8.0

Broken Oar is always a blast to visit. They consistently host great bands that attract a strong crowd, and every weekend feels like a giant party. Well in addition to throwing a great party, these folks cook a pretty bangin burger. 

I ordered the signature "Broken Burger" which included two types of cheese, grilled onions, a special sauce and WOW did I scarf this thing down. Patty was cooked perfect, had a great juiciness and a hearty texture. The combination of flavors was seriously impressive and balanced. Mid-meal I looked at my tablemates and confidently declared that this was the best burger on the Lower River.  

Come for the party, stay for the burger. 

7.1

A delightful tucked away neighborhood dive bar that is reminiscent of a northwoods locale. There's always a lively bunch of regulars, plenty of yard games on the big outdoor area, and just a fun atmosphere overall. But I digress- on to the burger!!

This is one of the more unique burgers on the lower river. Upon ordering, I was asked whether I wanted my onions raw or cooked- a nice touch. The modest $6 burger (no fries included) came out relatively quickly (but I could see the kitchen getting backed up easily during a lunch rush). The grilled onions were a great shot of flavor, and the small delicate pickles were the perfect acidic complement to the petite burger. Rather than the brioche buns that come standard at most other bars on the chain, this burger was paired with a toasted ciabatta bun which was a delicious change of pace. The actual burger patty was pretty small, but cooked to a good temperature with a basic but adequate flavor. I'd recommend getting a double patty for a more formidable meal. 

Will definitely return. Be mindful that the grill closes at 4pm. Also- the channel leading up to the bar is quite shallow at about 3ft depth per my gauge. I've never had issues in a sub 20ft bowrider during dry seasons, but boats with a deeper draft may want to save this for when water levels are high. 

6.7

No Wake has an extensive menu with a focus on seafood, but they also offer a few burgers that are each pretty good and filling. It's a great place to stop for a more tropical vibe, and it's great that they also boast a full service marina with gas so that you can refuel the boat while refueling your belly. 

The burger here was pretty simple, was served with the typical lettuce, tomato, onion. It also came with pickle slices, but they were as thick as the burger patty and more of a side than a topping. 

It was cooked a little past a medium temperature and thus was a little drier than I usually prefer. This is a very basic but well executed bar & grill burger that is far from memorable but certainly satisfying. 

I've enjoyed most of the food items at the No Wake Bar & Grill, and will stick to some of the non-burger choices in the future. On weekend mornings they have an incredible breakfast/brunch menu and each item is executed to perfection- I'd go here for brunch over lunch/dinner any day.