Willy Joe’s / Half Pound Cheeseburger – $5.15
Allentown, PA | willyjoes.com/
The Lehigh Valley has more than it’s fair share of dining institutions with fiercely loyal, decades-old followings. Yocco’s, Wert’s Cafe, The Brass Rail, and Zandy’s Steak Shop are a few that come to mind.
Another one of those eateries that has been around forever, and serves some of the best, most consistent and affordable food anywhere in the area, is Willy Joe’s. Willy Joe’s has 2 locations – a tiny little takeout-only shop on 15th Street, and another more spacious spot on Lehigh Street.
The Half Pound Burger is pretty straightforward. A beef patty, topped with American cheese, LTO, mayo, and pickles. The patties themselves are mostly unremarkable. Decent flavor, but the would’ve benefited greatly from some char, a downside that is completely offset by the generous amount of gooey cheese layered between.
The bun is soft and chewy, works well with the crunch of the fresh lettuce and onion, and doesn’t get in the way of the burger itself.
Willy Joe’s fries greatly help the overall score. Thin cut, crispy and golden, they’re nearly perfect, but are slightly too greasy to achieve a perfect 5/5 score.
Final thoughts:
As one of the Lehigh Valley’s many dining institutions, Willy Joe’s Half Pound Burger never fails to please.
