When Talk of the Town sent me on a mission to find the best burgers in Nashville, I knew right away that a stop at Big Al's Deli in Salemtown was in order! (I know, I have a tough job...)
Big Al is known for his comfort food, including favorites like his Meatloaf, Southern Carolinian Shrimp & Grits, and Fried Catfish. But his burger might be one of the best kept secrets in Nashville!
What's the secret?
"My philosophy on burgers is to make the best burger in town," proprietor Al Anderson told me. "To make a good burger, you need fat. So I don't do 80/20, I do 73/27, because you need a little more fat in your ground beef."
Big Al also said it's important to season your ground beef with more than just salt, pepper, and garlic - but he won't reveal his special spice mixture, which he credits his wife with recommending.
What about toppings?
"I pickle my own onions, I make my own pickles, and always use a very good bun," Al said. He also suggests that you make sure to use the right size bun for your burger - and always toast the bun to seal the bun from any liquids that might try to soak through from your lettuce or tomato.
Al grills his burgers on a flattop and doesn't recommend smashing the patty, which can cause you to lose flavor. Then you can go wild, finishing off with a good quality cheese, bacon, or a fried egg!
When can you get this burger?
Al tells me that while the burger is on the menu for lunch, but he'll make it for you at breakfast, too, if you just ask. In my experience, Big Al will make just about anything you ask for, anytime.
If you're planning an event - Big Al also offers catering! Check out his menus for breakfast cateringor lunch and dinner catering.
Big Al's Deli is open for breakfast and lunch, Tuesday through Saturday.
See his full menu and learn more about Al at https://www.bigalsdeliandcatering.com/
1828 4th Ave North, Nashville, TN 37208.
For more information or to contact Al for catering services, call (615) 242-8118.
I promise - stop by Al's a few times and you'll leave with more than just a full stomach, you'll make a new friend!
