Quatman Cafe: Burger wars heat up
It’s about the burger. The bun’s boring, the seasoning left to the diner’s discretion, the condiments simple. But the meaty burger is thick, juicy, and delicious. The Quatman Café has a definite contender for the title of Cincinnati’s Best Burger.
Enter the small restaurant with its Tudor façade and find dated décor and friendly faces. In summer months the hum of the air conditioner may drown out the sound from the TVs, but it's more likely the noise will come from the animated conversations of the lunchtime or evening crowds.
Take a seat on a mismatched chair at one of the well-worn tables and make yourself at home. Neon beer signs, framed prints of Cincinnati’s Delta Queen and other riverboats, and collages of friends decorate the walls. There are also awards. A framed certificate announces “City’s Best #1,” recognizing the Quatman Café’s burger as “Best in the City.”
It’s a great burger, perfectly cooked beef with smooth, evenly melted American cheese. Order it with shoestring fries, cut thin, and tasting crisp, not greasy, with good potato flavor. The combination reigns as prime pub food, the signature dish of the Café’s quality, uncomplicated, inexpensive menu.
“Last summer,” the server said, “we were adding a new chicken sandwich to the menu.” She put a paper plate with the cheeseburger and fries on the table. “Grilled chicken, with different flavors, spices, marinades. So we had to try every one. We got it right though. We got it right.”
They always get it right at Quatman’s. Friendly service and good food. Family owned and operated, the café opened in 1966 and serves sandwiches, homemade soups and “the coldest beer in town.” The adjacent deli sells locally produced lunchmeat and the restaurant offers daily specials and catering.
HelloCincinnati Tip: Satisfy your Quatman cravings at a new location! In addition to the original Quatman Café, you can now enjoy the same great tastes in Mason at 224 West Main Street, Mason, Ohio 45040.
Posted by Barbara David
