Tag: bacon

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Don’t Overlook the Burger at Oxford’s Native Grill and Wings

The Hangover Burger from Native Grill and Wings in Oxford, MA

After a month long philosophical journey, I was finally ready to get back to the important things in life, like figuring out where my next burger would come from. I began by perusing some Facebook recommendations before deciding on a relatively new spot in Oxford called Native Grill and Wings.

Located in a small strip mall behind a gas station on Sutton Avenue, tucked alongside a pet store and a Dollar Tree, lies an unassuming store front. I entered Native Grill and Wings with optimistic skepticism, not knowing what to expect. The eatery featured a large dining room off to the left and an extensive bar area that offered stellar views of any number of flat screen televisions hanging on the walls. I thought, ‘This would be a great place to catch a game, share some wings, drink a beer and just relax.’ But, this trip, I was here for one thing and one thing only: a burger.

I took my time with the menu, salivating over some of the most unique wing flavors I have ever seen, before I regained my focus and decided on the Hangover Burger ($10.99). This burger consisted of hardwood smoked bacon, hash browns, a fried egg, avocado, lettuce and pepper jack cheese. As I anxiously awaited my burger, I enjoyed a loaded tater tot appetizer while watching the Golden State Warriors championship parade. I continued to get whiffs of tangy wings as they were delivered to tables around us. I managed to resist.

It was a good thing, because when my burger arrived, the smell was intoxicating. The aroma of the freshly charred meat and the salinity of the fries lingered in the air. At first bite, the burger put forward extreme flavors, albeit the patty itself had been slightly overcooked. Luckily, the meat was still juicy, and the interior had not dried out. My substantial helping of bacon was assertive and its maple character reminded me of a hearty breakfast sandwich. The creamy avocado and the runny yolk of a fried egg added rich texture to the burger. The kicker was the hash brown patty. Crispy potato was not something I had experienced in my burger travels and it was certainly a welcome addition. The fries were properly seasoned with both salt and pepper. For such a new and relatively small establishment, I was surprised to find that they were probably the best fries I have enjoyed in recent memory…kudos!

I feel confidently that this unique wing restaurant is going to be a Godsend come football season. I can’t wait to belly up to the bar and enjoy a dozen of my favorite wings while watching the Patriots beat whatever hapless team they might be playing that week. I have been lucky enough to consume some of the best burgers that Worcester County has to offer, and for that I am grateful. Still, I know there are countless other burgers waiting for me to try, so if you have a favorite, please tweet me at @EDioufUC5 and I’ll take your suggestion under consideration.

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Lighter Fare (That Still Involves Bacon) at The Hangover Pub

Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad from Hangover Pub (Submitted)

It’s finally beginning to feel like summer and eating lighter comes naturally when the sun is shining and the people are walking the streets smiling. Eating on the healthier side shouldn’t be a chore, nor a bank-breaker, and although one typically visits the award winning Hangover Pub for their infamous Man Candy (brown sugar and maple glazed bacon), Lobster Grilled Cheese, Three Pork Ramen or a Bacon themed cocktail, you can also enjoy some delicious fare on the lighter side, too. (Don’t worry, there’s still bacon involved.)

Bacon Wrapped Scallops from Hangover Pub (Submitted)
Bacon Wrapped Scallops from Hangover Pub (Submitted)

The Hangover Pub, New England’s first bacon gastro pub, has made a home for themselves on Green Street in Worcester and offers a chill vibe, eccentric decor, weekly specials (Taco Tuesday, anyone?) and a passionate staff. It’s quickly become one of my go-to spots in the city whether it’s for brunch, dinner or just a glass of wine and a friendly conversation at the bar. Becoming a regular here does have its downfalls. The Bacon Wrapped Scallops and Pork Belly Rangoons were quickly catching up to me and that’s when, for the first time ever, I looked at the “Light Stuff” portion on the top of the menu. The Chef’s board and Spring Panzanella Salad both sounded great, but the Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad was the victor.

Michael Arrastia, the chef at The Hangover Pub, could make you a peanut butter sandwich and somehow it’d be the best you’ve ever had, so I knew that although he was the king of indulgent cuisine, his salad skills could be trusted too.

Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad from Hangover Pub (Submitted)
Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad from Hangover Pub (Submitted)

The Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad ($11) is the perfect summer salad. Light and crisp with only 6 ingredients that pack a real punch and won’t leave you feeling hungover. Sliced apple, Marcona Almonds, Bacon, Shaved Pecorino, Lemon-Dijon Vinaigrette, and of course, Brussel Sprouts.

Sliced apples. Thinly sliced green apples are the fruit you never knew you needed in a salad to give it that refreshingly crisp, tart flavor. Marcona Almonds. Almonds give this salad the satisfying crunch it needs. Bacon. A wise man once said, “When in doubt, just add bacon.” Shaved Pecorino. Pecorino is the best type of grated cheese to add to a summer salad. It’s sharp and flavorful but not heavy at all. Lemon-Dijon Vinaigrette. Tangy, lemony, light and fresh, this is a salad dressing you can feel good about eating, and licking the plate. Brussel Sprouts. The main event in this salad. Roasted and Shaved Brussel Sprouts have got to be the most underrated vegetable in the salad game. They are leafy and delicious and certainly tie this summer salad together.

Hungover or not, find your way to Green Street for The Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad at The Hangover Pub.