Small Batch’s upbeat, diner-style counterpart is livening up downtown Winston-Salem’s restaurant scene. The micro-brewery’s sister restaurant, Burger Batch, opened in mid-November, just in time for end-of-semester celebratory dinner and drinks.
Located on W. 5th St., the gourmet hamburger joint shares a kitchen with Small Batchbut offers a different vibe than the grungy bar next door. The cream-colored walls and plush booths are a stark contrast from Small Batch’s darker decor. Eighties tunes thump through the overhead speakers, and the congenial wait staff is eager to greet you.
Order one of their signature hamburgers or veggie burgers and pile on an array of “fancy” toppings including fried egg, smoked bacon, pork belly, pimento cheese and more. Or, opt for one of Burger Batch’s ten “Crafty” burgers for uniquely crafted combinations and unparalleled flavors. Burgers are served on a silver frying pan, a charming touch to the overall restaurant aesthetic.
I chose the Figgy Piggy, a beef burger trimmed with balsamic bacon fig jam, goat cheese and grilled onions. The medium-sized patty was cooked to perfection, and the balsamic bacon fig jam complemented the savory burger with a slight sweetness. Other burger combinations include “The Winston” — potato chips, pimento cheese and onion marmalade — and “Le Big Matt — pork belly, cheddar, pickles, red onion, lettuce and fancy sauce.
Although the burgers aren’t automatically served with a side, patrons pick from a variety of options, including hand cut fries, sweet potato tater tots, onion rings, coleslaw and more.
Several beloved menu items from Small Batch are featured on the menu, too. The Korean beef tacos, brussel sprouts and macaroni and cheese make an appearance on the new menu. Burger Batch also serves Small Batch’s locally sourced beer on tap. Wash down your burger with the Mr. Lemon Man IPA, Queen Cersei Blonde Ale or Mr. Mizzle’s Magical Elixir IPA.
Finish off the meal with one of their signature desserts: a monstrous milkshake overflowing with toppings. We split the “It’s a Surprise” shake: vanilla ice cream adorned with a slice of cake, tufts of cotton candy and whip cream. The edges of the glass were coated in icing and dipped in sprinkles, making the treat almost too beautiful to eat. Sip the creamy concoction through a straw, or dive in with a spoon.
Burger Batch features three other shakes combinations: A Nod to a Legend, Black and White and Banana Time. All shakes are $9.00, a reasonable price for such a decadent treat. Or, order a refreshing frozen Arnold Palmer with or without alcohol for a sweet treat.
Downtown Winston-Salem is evolving into a booming metropolitan area as new restaurants, boutiques, apartment complexes and businesses open throughout the city. Although new to the Art District’s dining scene, Burger Batch is a quintessential foodie favorite. Take a study break and head to Burger Batch to reward yourself with a great meal and even better dessert. You deserve it.
