Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Buck's of Woodside, Woodside, CA

Buck’s Restaurant in Woodside is a whacky place where big deals get done. It is run by an eccentric soul who loves to espouse opinions. They are printed right on the back of the menu. (e.g. Why human-caused global warming is bunk.) There are all kinds of fun memorabilia in the store, like a pair of Shaq’s shoes, a painting of Roy Rogers on Trigger and, outside in the parking lot, a giant salmon carved from wood. Legend has it that many a famous start-up has been birthed over a burger or breakfast at Buck’s.

The place was packed at lunchtime on a Wednesday afternoon. I met Jonathon there to discuss a dentistry mission trip to Juarez. We decided to talk teeth and service to others over a burger. We both ordered the Cheeseburger ($10.25) – mine with Swiss and his with cheddar. I got onion strings and he got fries.

Each burger came with a generous portion of lettuce, onion and tomato on the side. The burger was cooked nicely to medium and served on a sesame bun with no condiments. I added ketchup. My first bite revealed a serviceable burger. While not especially juicy or flavorful, it was adequate for the purpose.

The onion strings were much better. Thin and twisted into knots, they were breaded lightly with flour and pepper. Although only luke warm when served, they were still tasty. The fries were medium thick with skins on. Warmer than the strings, they made a reasonable accompaniment to the burger.

Our meal finished, we waived goodbye to the miniature Statue of Liberty and headed back down the hill, in search of better burgers to be found. Jonathon suggested Cable Car Joe’s in San Francisco. The search continues.

Burger 3 spatulas out of 5
Fries 3 spatulas
Onion Strings 4 spatulas

Buck’s of Woodside
3062 Woodside Road
Woodside CA 94062
650-851-8010
http://www.buckswoodside.com/