Attention all burger buffs, a Californian based chargrilled burger establishment, known as The Habit Burger Grill opened for business at the end of 2015. The restaurant, located in the Michael’s plaza off Route 35 South in Eatontown, uses a highly heated grill to produce the “charred” effect.
My friend and I were coming back from a workout in Tinton Falls when we decided that we were in the mood for a “cheat meal.” Brandon expressed persistent interest in The Habit so I decided to see what the fuss was all about.
As soon as I walked into the restaurant, I immediately felt the west coast vibe. The vibrantly- lit area deemed welcoming as pleasant-sounding, reggae music gently played from speakers.
I walked a few yards over to the register and ordering station, passing small foliage and flowers on my left-hand side. I was soon faced with the eye-catching text reading, “There’s No Substitute for Quality!”
Intrigued, I glanced at the menu as my mouth began to water, viewing the various possibilities for not only a Charbuger, but also sandwiches containing chicken, tri-tip steaks, albacore tuna filets, and even veggie burgers for those who don’t eat meat.
An array of salads, crunchy-battered sides, shakes, and malts looked enticing as well.
Stomach rumbling, I decided to order the Double Charburger containing 100 percent fresh ground beef, grilled chicken caesar, and the hand-spindled chocolate milkshake. Happily taking my order, the friendly cashier called back to the grill, “one Double Char!”
The fry cook proceeded to add two more burger patties to the vast, stainless steel chargrill. Upon paying, the cashier handed me a small box containing light bulbs that would light up when my food was ready.
After approximately five minutes of waiting, Brandon and I sat down in a booth. The dining room provided ample seating with its pub style tables in addition to the booths.
Excited as ever, I took a bite of the Double Charburger. The pleasing medley of the perfectly cooked burger topped mayonnaise, caramelized onions, tomatoes, lettuce, pickles and the sesame bun electrified my sense of taste.
As I quickly devoured the delicious burger, I took notice to the scenery and people around me. Pictures of California beaches and other landscapes hung on the brightly colored walls. Blue glass lighting fixtures provided plenty light. Overall, the setting was quite peaceful as consumers of all different ages dined during the lunch hour.
Similar to the burger, the salad was savory. The lettuce and other salad ingredients proved to be crisp and fresh with every bite. The chocolate milkshake was delicious throughout the entire meal.
My friend was also happy with his order and absolutely loved his Santa Barbara Style Charburger. Brandon Ellis, a politicial science student said, “The cheese infused with the fresh avocado and well-cooked double char taste was outrageous.”
I was so satisfied with my meal that I decided to grab takeout as well, later ordering the Chicken Club, which had marinated chicken breast, tomatoes, crisp bacon, leafy green lettuce, avocado and mayo all served to perfection on a toasted sourdough bun.
The Habit Burger Grill exceeded my expectations with food, service, and a reasonable priced menu. I only spent just about $19 in total.
The west coast based, well run establishment caters to families as well as groups of friends. It is a great spot to grab a nice lunch in between classes or working, even for a quick bite right before a movie date.
The Habit Burger Grill certainly has not seen the last of me.
