Every town needs a good burger, or two, or ten. Portland is no different, and although there are a number of delicious patties in town, if you’re looking for a slightly different take on the classic, that will leave you licking your fingers and smiling for hours, Nosh Kitchen Bar on Congress St. is your place.

I won’t pretend that burgers are the only thing on the menu at Nosh – they have a great selection of sandwiches (proudly wrap-free since 2010), and an evening “noshing” menu that has more than one tasty looking option – but I’ve never made it that far. In fact, I’ve only ever had a single entree on the menu – the pork and beef patty, flat top-seared, fried egg-dripping, bacon, blue cheese, and roasted garlic Nosh Burger. It’s big and messy, but worth every square inch of napkin you’ll sacrifice to the cause. It’s juicy, flavorful, and each ingredient seems to compliment the others.  It’s a fantastic burger.

Although the Nosh Burger is my go to entree, what’s a burger without it’s fries? Nosh’s thick-cut steak style fries would definitely stand alone plain, but someone dreamt up three variations to really set them apart – the sea salt and pepper, the sea salt and vinegar, and yes, the world famous bacon-dusted. All three are worth a try and there are a number of tasty dipping sauces to accompany them (I recommend the sweet chili or the chipotle mayo). If you’re feeling brave, a little too healthy, and slightly Canadian, give the bacon-gravy and cheese curd poutine a try. Being a southerner, I’m new to the poutine scene, but Nosh’s version has to be one of the best I’ve tried so far.

Bottom-line, if you’re looking for a great burger, fries, and beer to wash it down (Peeper on tap – never a question), look no further than this tasty establishment.