Apache Vs. Jumbo Burger

The Battle of the Burgers was in full effect over the holidays and so I decided that it was time to try these vinatge locations.  They both are unique and focus on being diner style to ensure their past is not forgotten.

In this Corner we have; Apache Burger.

This location was very busy upon arrival.  Everything has to be purchased a la carte.  This isn't terrible but I have to say, when it comes to wanting a burger, I feel as though it should just be understood you are going to have fries or onion rings with it.  Having a burger and a salad just shouldn't be allowed if you ask me.  You only live once so enjoy it.  Just don't enjoy doing it that often!

The location was fairly clean but people didn't respect the place and didn't even clear their tables of garbage.  Located right at 5236 Dundas Street West, its very close to the Kipling Subway stop, making it a very accessible place to get to.

The service was avaerage and those working there seemed to care less about what they were doing.  To be honest that took away from the diner experince that one can get accustomed to when eating at any diner.  It was designed with bright ansd vibrant colours to catch your attention, make you want to come in, feel welcomed and follow that up with friendly service.  This location did all of the above but offer the friendly service.  I felt as though when they called us up to get our burgers, the guy was just blunt, rude and uncaring as to what we wanted on our burgers.  Another negative to this location is its "cash only"policy, so make sure you have cash before so you don't get hit by using their ATM. (How convenient.)

We got a Chocolate shake to split because it was $6 shake! Also, we had 2 burgers, 1 fries and  1 onion rings.  You can't go to a diner and not at least try their home made onion rings.  The burgers were ok and tasted salty.  On a side note, it should be understood that Apache Burger has sold out to the higher costs of their location.  They used to have fresh homemade burger patties and the burgers we had were definately not homemade.  Its unfortunate to see a place that once had an amazing reputation for burgers, sell out to getting frozen products but keeping the prices high.

In the opposing corner, we have; Jumbo Burger.

Jumbo Burger is located at 685 Runnymede Road and looks like it is an old TTC car that has been transformed into a diner.  This location might have 20 seats if its lucky.  The bathrooms resemble airplane washrooms but the character of this location is AMAZING!  When we first walked in it was just a one man show.  He was rough around the edges but freindly.  Jumbo is also a la carte, so we ordered the exact same thing here as Apache.  1 Chocolate Milkshake, 2 burgers, 1 fries, and 1 onion ring.  This prices were the same but the quality of food went to Jumbo Burger.  These burgers were definateky homemade and the atmosphere made you feel as though you were helping the small guy for eating there.  The people in there were all locals and families.  They cleared their tables and respcted the location.

Overall I would recommend heading into the up and coming Junction for the taste of a homemade burger.

Apache Burger gets a 6 out of 10 from me.  Not empressed really for a place that once had one of the best reputations in Toronto for burgers.  I would not go back to this location.

Jumbo Burger gets a 8.5 out of 10.  The service could have been more inviting for a community focus restaurant.

Enjoy your ground beef!

- The Hungry Ginger