Ep 4. Extreme Burgers

In season 1 episode 4 of Fast Food Mania, titled "Extreme Burgers," we are taken on a journey through the world of fast food burgers that push the limits of what we expect from our favorite greasy indulgence. Host John Hein explores the most outrageous and over-the-top burgers from popular fast food chains and local joints across the country.

The episode begins with a visit to a classic American drive-in diner in Oklahoma, where Hein tries the Big Okie burger. This monstrous creation has three patties, three slices of cheese, bacon, and all the classic fixings, but what sets it apart is the addition of a heaping helping of chili. Hein is amazed at the size of the burger and the flavors all melding together, but he also wonders how someone could possibly eat it all in one sitting.

Next up, Hein heads to New York City, where he checks out the offerings at Burger Joint, a small, no-frills burger spot that has been serving up classic burgers for over a decade. But there's one item on the menu that is definitely not classic: the Truffle Burger. Made with a juicy beef patty, truffle butter, and melted cheese, this burger is small but packs a powerful flavor punch. Hein declares it one of the best burgers he's ever had.

Moving on to Orlando, Florida, Hein visits a restaurant that takes the term "extreme" to the next level. The Heart Attack Grill serves up burgers so large and unhealthy, they come with a warning: "This Establishment is Bad for Your Health." Customers can choose from a variety of burgers, including the Quadruple Bypass Burger, which has four patties, eight slices of cheese, bacon, and all the usual condiments. Hein watches in disbelief as one man eats an entire Quadruple Bypass burger in just a few minutes.

But not all extreme burgers are about size and gluttony. In Los Angeles, Hein visits a food truck that specializes in a healthier take on the burger. The Green Truck's Grass-Fed Bison Burger is made with high-quality bison meat, organic vegetables, and a gluten-free bun. Hein marvels at the lightness and freshness of the burger, and notes that it's a refreshing change from the heavy, calorie-laden burgers he's been trying.

Back in New York City, Hein checks out the burger offerings at the famous Shake Shack. While their classic ShackBurger is a crowd favorite, it's their seasonal offerings that get the attention of burger aficionados. Hein tries the SmokeShack, a bacon cheeseburger with cherry peppers and the ShackSauce, and is impressed with the unique combination of flavors.

The final stop on Hein's burger adventure takes him to San Francisco, where he visits Super Duper Burgers, a fast food chain that takes a farm-to-table approach to their burgers. Hein tries the Super Burger, which features two all-natural beef patties, two slices of cheese, pickles, onions, and their proprietary Super Sauce. Hein notes that the quality of the meat shines through in every bite, and declares it one of the best burgers he's had on his journey.

Throughout the episode, Hein marvels at the creativity and ingenuity that goes into making extreme burgers. Whether it's a massive burger laden with toppings, or a lighter take on the classic, there's something for everyone in the world of fast food burgers.