Poag Mahone's -- The Verdict

The Summertime $5 Burger Challenge ends not with a whimper, but with a bang. Further, the challenge ends in a way only a lawyer could love -- it's no longer summer, and the burger didn't cost $5. Technically, though, diners might be able to find it at $5 or less on alternate Tuesdays from 4:05 to 4:15, in months lacking an "R," or something like that, so perhaps it qualified. But, who cares? It was a great burger at any price. That was no surprise to one of our group, who was closing in on his centennial burger at Poag's. "Flavorful," "juicy," and "perfectly cooked." If you can find a better everyday lunch burger in the loop, you're a lucky man. "Pretzel bun, grass fed, perfect execution = #WINNING." And the fries! Both regular, and even the sweet potato fries got thumbs up. "The best sweet potato fries I've ever had, which I realize is like winning the hottest geek grandmother contest. But still." All in all, "an underrated gem." Low of 83; high of 88; average of 85.