Here Is Maryland’s Best Burger

BALTIMORE, MD — Whoever coined the phrase “as American as apple pie,” should probably revise that to reflect that burgers are actually our passion. Which may be why every foodie website and blogger has its own ranking of what the best burger in the state is, and they don't always agree.

Admittedly, “as American as two all beef patties, special sauce, lettuce, cheese, pickles, onions, on a sesame-seed bun,” may not have the same ring to it, but at least it would be factually correct — particularly when Americans just spent $388 million on patties alone this week, according to CNBC. But if you don't feel like grilling your own burgers — or your boss’s barbecue invite somehow got lost in the mail — a recent MSN report says there’s a great spot to try in Baltimore.

The site recently published its “Best Burger in Every State” article and found that Abbey Burger Bistro in Baltimore was the best in Maryland.

“It's only right that one of the best burgers in Maryland includes the official state food: crab meat," says MSN. "Yes, The Baltimore Burger at Abbey Burger Bistro tops a patty made from Angus beef with homemade crab dip, plus bacon and cheddar cheese. It's a surf and turf delight!"

(For more news like this, find your local Patch here. If you have an iPhone, click here to get the free Patch iPhone app; download the free Patch Android app here. And like Patch on Facebook!)

There are roughly 50,000 burger joints in America though — 1.6 burger restaurants for every 10,000 Americans — so if that one doesn’t fit your taste, you might try these named by other burger fans.

SEE ALSO:

• 30 Best Places To Get A Burger In Maryland
• National Hamburger Day: Here's Maryland's Favorite Burger

Americans’ love for burgers can be traced to 19th century German immigrants, whose restaurants served ground beef patties that were eaten with utensils. Shortly thereafter, someone discovered you could put bread around the slab of meat. Voila! A sandwich was born.

If you’re planning to fire up the grill this weekend, don’t skimp on the ingredients. Chefs say a variety of factors go into a great burger, including the meat-to-fat ratio, the type of meat and bun, and even the crisp of the bun.

Consumers mostly agree. A 2009 report found that three out of every four burger-enthusiasts ranked meat quality as either the first or second most important attribute, followed by toppings.

What do you think? Tell us in the comments what makes a perfect burger and where you go to get them.

Photo credit: Shutterstock