Bites Nearby: Bagger Dave's Legendary Burger Tavern

There’s something uniquely summer about a thick, juicy burger. It’s the ultimate handheld food, one we treat ourselves to as often as we can – which is not hard because they’re everywhere. Whether it’s a backyard barbeque, a ballgame, or just and evening out, this simple yet sublime delicacy rarely fails to satisfy.

We often try our hands at achieving burger bliss ourselves, though it’s usually the pros that make them the best. And Bagger Dave’s Legendary Burger Tavern seems to have the market cornered on burger mavens.

But they didn’t stop at bulging burgers when they created their menu.

Make no mistake: Bagger Dave’s is all about great burgers. Prices are pivotal, though. Serving a $8 sandwich, or a $10 burger, is a turnoff, especially when chips and fries (or any side item) are sold a-la-cart. The right atmosphere is also imperative. No one is going to feel at ease in a stuffy, crisp-linen restaurant, as they reach down to palm a softball-sized burger, dripping with cheese and mustard.

What also works for them is that they don't seem focussed on pleasing just one customer at a time. A diverse menu is a key ingredient for success; surrounding a main attraction with a supporting cast will diversify your customer base (things like starters -- the “so this year” term for appetizers -- salads and sandwiches, for those who just aren’t in the mood for a burger). And, finally, the service must also be casual, yet convey a serious attitude about their dedication to your enjoyment.

In each of these categories, Bagger Dave’s is firing on all cylinders.

Simple dark-wood tables line a tiled floor of red, white and blue; a railroad crossing light post towers over the host stand; and an electric train circles a track that hangs from the open rafters. An L-shaped bar-rail winds around the corner to the right of the front door, which is great for the kids. There are also several flat-screen televisions strategically placed to cover all sightlines, and upbeat music streams from speakers above.

Starters range from $2.19 for a single order of Saratoga chips with sea salt to $5.49 for their Irish nachos (Saratoga chips smothered in pico de gallo, cheese, chili and sour cream).  Salad selections include the Caesar salad for $5.59 (or as a side for $3.59) and the Tijuana Salad (their turkey black bean chili, chipotle BBQ sauce, tomatoes and cheese) for $5.99 (or as a side for $3.99). Sandwiches are all under $5, including the Michigan Meltdown (a giant grilled-cheese with tomato, onion and basil) for $3.99, and the peanut butter, honey and banana sandwich for $4.29.

Create-your own burgers begin at $3.79. The six-step building process allows you to choose your burger patty (beef, turkey or veggie), bun, cheese, sauce, free toppings, and premium toppings ($1 each). Their “signature burgers” (served with two patties) include the Santa Fe chipotle burger for $7.29, the blues burger (bleu cheese and Cajun spices) for $5.59 and the great American cheeseburger for $5.59.  

Bagger Dave’s also has numerous Michigan craft beers, bottled and on tap. Their selection includes brews from Arcadia Brewing Company (Battle Creek), Arbor Brewing Company (Ann Arbor), Short’s Brewing Company (Bellaire) and North Peak Brewery (Traverse City). They also serve an array of wines, Stewart’s root beer and ice cream shakes. Desserts include a chocolate and caramel drizzled brownie for $3.29, a root beer float for $3.79 and their banana split for $4.99.

Open Sunday - Thursday, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Bagger Dave's Legendary Burger Tavern, 26054 Novi Road

(248) 374-3289/www.baggerdaves.com