10 Amazing Good Stuff Eatery Burger – Washington, D.C., USA -

History and Background

Good Stuff Eatery opened its doors in 2008 in the heart of Washington, D.C. Founded by Chef Spike Mendelsohn, the restaurant was born from a vision to create a casual dining experience that focuses on high-quality, gourmet burgers made with fresh, local ingredients. Spike, who grew up in the area, wanted to offer a unique take on the classic American burger, drawing inspiration from his culinary training and experiences.

The restaurant quickly gained popularity, becoming a go-to spot for both locals and tourists seeking a delicious meal. Its location on Capitol Hill made it an ideal dining destination for politicians, staffers, and visitors alike. Over the years, Good Stuff Eatery has earned accolades for its exceptional food and commitment to quality, establishing itself as a staple in the D.C. dining scene.

In its early days, the restaurant faced the typical challenges of a new establishment, including fierce competition from other burger joints and the need to build a loyal customer base. However, Chef Spike’s dedication to crafting the perfect burger and fostering a welcoming environment paid off. Good Stuff Eatery soon became known not just for its food but for its community involvement, hosting events and participating in local festivals.

As the restaurant’s reputation grew, so did its reach. Spike opened additional locations in other cities, expanding the brand while maintaining the core values that made the original restaurant successful. This expansion brought Good Stuff Eatery’s delicious burgers to a wider audience, showcasing the charm and quality of D.C. dining.

About the Founder: Chef Spike Mendelsohn

Chef Spike Mendelsohn is a culinary force whose passion for food has taken him from the kitchen of his family’s restaurant to the national spotlight. Born in 1980 in Washington, D.C., Spike grew up in a family that valued cooking and hospitality. His mother, a chef, instilled in him a love for food from a young age, leading him to pursue a career in the culinary arts.

Spike honed his skills at the Culinary Institute of America and worked in various esteemed restaurants, including a stint at the renowned Citronelle in D.C. His diverse culinary background laid the foundation for his innovative approach to classic American dishes. However, it was his appearance on Season 4 of “Top Chef” that catapulted him into the national spotlight, showcasing his creativity and talent to a wider audience.

Spike’s personality and culinary skills resonated with viewers, leading to numerous opportunities beyond Good Stuff Eatery. He has made appearances on several cooking shows, including “The Rachael Ray Show” and “The Today Show,” where he shares his insights on burgers, cooking techniques, and restaurant management. His presence in the media has helped to solidify Good Stuff Eatery’s reputation as a must-visit destination for food lovers.

As a chef, Spike is committed to using high-quality, sustainable ingredients and has a strong focus on community involvement. He often collaborates with local farmers and purveyors, ensuring that his dishes reflect the freshest and most flavorful ingredients available. His dedication to quality and community has made Good Stuff Eatery not just a restaurant but a beloved institution in Washington, D.C.

Menu Breakdown

The menu at Good Stuff Eatery reflects Chef Spike’s commitment to quality and innovation. It features a wide variety of options, each crafted with care to ensure a memorable dining experience. The menu is divided into several categories, including burgers, fries, shakes, and sides, each designed to appeal to a diverse range of tastes.

Burgers

At the heart of Good Stuff Eatery’s menu is its selection of gourmet burgers. Each burger is made with 100% USDA-certified Angus beef, hand-formed and cooked to perfection. The menu includes several signature creations:

The Prez Obama Burger: Inspired by the former president’s love for burgers, this fan-favorite features a perfectly grilled patty topped with crispy onion petals, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, and the restaurant’s signature “Good Stuff Sauce.” This burger not only pays homage to a famous D.C. resident but also captures the essence of Good Stuff Eatery’s commitment to flavorful, hearty meals.
Spike’s Sunnyside: This unique offering elevates the classic burger with a fried egg on top, along with bacon, cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of spicy mayonnaise. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying experience that keeps customers coming back for more.
The Mushroom Swiss: For those seeking a vegetarian option, the Mushroom Swiss burger features a savory portobello mushroom cap, melted Swiss cheese, and sautéed onions, delivering a hearty alternative without compromising on flavor.

Each burger can be customized with various toppings and sauces, allowing diners to create their perfect meal. Whether someone prefers a classic cheeseburger or a more adventurous option, there is something for everyone at Good Stuff Eatery.

Fries and Sides

The restaurant’s fries are another standout feature of the menu. Hand-cut daily and cooked to crispy perfection, they are seasoned with a special blend of spices that makes them irresistible. Customers can choose from several styles, including:

Classic Fries: Perfectly crispy and lightly salted, these fries serve as a great complement to any burger.
Onion Petals: A signature side dish, these onion petals are battered and fried until golden brown, providing a crunchy and flavorful accompaniment.
Cheesy Fries: For those looking to indulge, cheesy fries topped with melted cheese and special sauce offer a decadent treat.

Shakes and Beverages

No burger meal is complete without a delicious shake. Good Stuff Eatery offers a range of hand-spun milkshakes made with premium ice cream. Popular flavors include:

Vanilla Bean: A classic choice that lets the quality of the ingredients shine through.
Chocolate Peanut Butter: A rich and indulgent option that combines the flavors of chocolate and creamy peanut butter.
Seasonal Flavors: The restaurant often features limited-edition shakes, such as pumpkin spice in the fall or mint chocolate chip during the summer.

In addition to shakes, Good Stuff Eatery offers a selection of sodas, lemonades, and other beverages to complement the meal.

Customer Experience and Reviews

Good Stuff Eatery has garnered an impressive reputation among customers, thanks to its commitment to quality food and exceptional service. Reviews on platforms like Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Google highlight several key aspects that contribute to the overall experience.

Praises

Food Quality: Many customers rave about the freshness and taste of the burgers, often mentioning that Good Stuff Eatery serves some of the best burgers they’ve ever had. The attention to detail in crafting each dish is frequently noted, with diners appreciating the flavor combinations and high-quality ingredients.
Friendly Staff: Reviewers consistently mention the warm and welcoming atmosphere created by the staff. Many patrons report positive interactions with employees, who are known for being knowledgeable about the menu and eager to provide recommendations.
Ambiance: The restaurant’s vibrant and casual decor adds to the overall experience. Diners appreciate the fun, laid-back environment that makes it suitable for families, friends, or casual dates.

Criticisms

While the majority of feedback is positive, some customers have noted areas for improvement. Common criticisms include:

Wait Times: During peak hours, some diners have reported longer wait times for food. However, many acknowledge that the quality of the food makes the wait worthwhile.
Pricing: A few reviews mention that the prices are on the higher side compared to other burger joints. However, most customers feel that the quality of the food justifies the cost.

Overall, the customer experience at Good Stuff Eatery is characterized by high-quality food, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere. This combination of factors has fostered a loyal customer base that continues to support the restaurant.

Sourcing and Ingredient Quality

One of the cornerstones of Good Stuff Eatery’s philosophy is its commitment to sourcing high-quality, sustainable ingredients. Chef Spike Mendelsohn believes that great food starts with great ingredients, and this principle is evident in every aspect of the restaurant’s offerings.

Quality Meat

Good Stuff Eatery uses 100% USDA-certified Angus beef for its burgers. The beef is sourced from reputable suppliers known for their humane and sustainable practices. This focus on quality ensures that every burger is not only delicious but also made from ethically raised cattle. The restaurant prioritizes freshness, receiving deliveries multiple times a week to maintain the highest standards for their meat.

Local Partnerships

In addition to quality beef, Good Stuff Eatery partners with local farms and purveyors to source vegetables, herbs, and other ingredients. By working with local farmers, the restaurant supports the regional economy while ensuring that the ingredients are fresh and in-season. This not only enhances the flavor of the dishes but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances.

Sustainability Practices

Good Stuff Eatery is dedicated to sustainable practices in its operations. This includes minimizing waste, recycling, and using eco-friendly packaging whenever possible. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability resonates with customers who value environmental responsibility and want to support businesses that share their values.

The Making of a Good Stuff Eatery Burger

The process of crafting a burger at Good Stuff Eatery is an art form that combines skill, precision, and passion. Every step, from ingredient selection to cooking techniques, plays a crucial role in creating the perfect burger.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Ingredients

The journey begins with selecting the finest ingredients. Each burger starts with a hand-formed beef patty made from freshly ground Angus beef. The team ensures that the meat is well-seasoned, enhancing its natural flavors without overwhelming it.

Step 2: Grilling Techniques

Cooking the patty to perfection is crucial. Good Stuff Eatery uses high-quality grills that allow for even cooking and the perfect sear. The patties are cooked to order, ensuring that they are served hot and juicy. Customers can choose their preferred doneness, from medium-rare to well-done, allowing for a personalized experience.

Step 3: Fresh Toppings

Once the burger is grilled to perfection, it is time to add the toppings. Good Stuff Eatery prides itself on using only fresh ingredients for its toppings. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and pickles are sourced locally whenever possible. Signature sauces, such as the “Good Stuff Sauce,” are made in-house, ensuring that they complement the burger without overpowering it.

Step 4: Presentation

The final touch is presentation. Each burger is served on a freshly baked bun, toasted to add an extra layer of flavor and texture. The presentation is colorful and inviting, making the burger not only delicious but also visually appealing.

This meticulous attention to detail in every step of the burger-making process is what sets Good Stuff Eatery apart. Customers can taste the difference in quality and care with every bite.

The Sides: Fries, Onion Petals, and More

While the burgers take center stage, the sides at Good Stuff Eatery are worthy of recognition in their own right. The restaurant offers a variety of sides that complement the main dishes, ensuring a well-rounded meal.

Hand-Cut Fries

Good Stuff Eatery’s hand-cut fries are a signature offering that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Each batch is made from fresh potatoes that are sliced in-house and fried to golden perfection. The fries are lightly salted and crispy, providing the ideal balance to the juicy burgers.

Onion Petals

One of the most popular sides is the onion petals, which are battered and fried until crispy. These flavorful petals are served with a zesty dipping sauce, making them a favorite among customers. The contrast of textures between the crunchy exterior and the tender onion inside makes them a delightful treat.

Customizable Options

For customers looking to personalize their meal, Good Stuff Eatery offers a selection of dipping sauces for the fries. From classic ketchup to spicy aioli, there are options to suit every palate. This ability to customize sides adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the dining experience.

Shakes and Beverages: More Than Just a Burger Joint

No meal at Good Stuff Eatery is complete without indulging in one of their signature shakes. These hand-spun treats elevate the dining experience, offering a sweet finish to the savory burgers.

Hand-Spun Milkshakes

Good Stuff Eatery’s milkshakes are made with premium ice cream and real ingredients. Customers can choose from a variety of flavors, including classic options like chocolate and vanilla, as well as more unique offerings such as salted caramel and seasonal specialties. The shakes are thick, creamy, and bursting with flavor, making them a perfect companion to any burger.

Seasonal Flavors

The restaurant also features seasonal milkshake flavors, allowing customers to try something new with each visit. These limited-time offerings often reflect seasonal ingredients, such as pumpkin spice in the fall or fresh berries in the summer. This keeps the menu fresh and exciting, encouraging repeat visits.

Beverage Selection

In addition to shakes, Good Stuff Eatery offers a selection of sodas, lemonades, and iced teas. The drinks are thoughtfully chosen to pair well with the menu items, ensuring that customers have a variety of options to quench their thirst.

The Cultural Impact of Good Stuff Eatery

Good Stuff Eatery has made a significant impact not only in Washington, D.C., but also in the broader culinary landscape of the United States. The restaurant has contributed to the rise of gourmet burgers, inspiring other establishments to elevate their offerings.

A Trendsetter in Gourmet Burgers

With its focus on high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations, Good Stuff Eatery has played a role in the gourmet burger trend. The restaurant has set a standard for what a burger can be, showcasing that fast food can be both delicious and made with care. This shift in perception has encouraged other restaurants to adopt similar philosophies, leading to a thriving burger culture across the nation.

Community Engagement

Good Stuff Eatery’s commitment to community engagement further solidifies its cultural significance. The restaurant actively participates in local events, food festivals, and charity initiatives, fostering a sense of community and connection. This involvement has helped to create a loyal customer base that feels a personal connection to the restaurant and its mission.

Media Recognition and Awards

The restaurant’s success has not gone unnoticed in the media. Good Stuff Eatery has received numerous accolades and features in culinary publications, showcasing its innovative approach to burgers. Chef Spike Mendelsohn’s appearances on television have further amplified the restaurant’s reach, introducing it to a national audience.

Good Stuff Eatery in the Media

Good Stuff Eatery’s rise to prominence has been bolstered by extensive media coverage and recognition, significantly contributing to its reputation as a top burger destination in Washington, D.C.

Television Appearances

Chef Spike Mendelsohn’s appearance on Season 4 of “Top Chef” was a pivotal moment for Good Stuff Eatery. His charisma and culinary talent captured the hearts of viewers and helped him gain a dedicated following. This exposure not only showcased his skills but also introduced the concept of gourmet burgers to a broader audience.

Following his stint on “Top Chef,” Spike made several appearances on popular cooking shows, including “The Rachael Ray Show,” “The Today Show,” and “Guy’s Grocery Games.” In these segments, he often shares recipes, cooking tips, and insights into running a successful restaurant. His engaging personality and passion for food resonate with viewers, further enhancing the restaurant’s visibility.

Print and Online Features

Good Stuff Eatery has been featured in numerous food blogs, culinary magazines, and local newspapers, often receiving praise for its innovative menu and commitment to quality. Articles highlight the restaurant’s unique offerings, like the Prez Obama Burger and hand-cut fries, cementing its status as a must-visit for burger enthusiasts.

Major publications, including The Washington Post, Eater, and Food & Wine, have written about Good Stuff Eatery, spotlighting its contributions to the local dining scene. These features not only attract foodies but also help establish the restaurant as a culinary authority in the region.

Awards and Recognitions

The restaurant’s dedication to excellence has earned it several accolades over the years. It has received awards for “Best Burger” and “Best Casual Dining” from various local and national publications. These recognitions serve to validate Good Stuff Eatery’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, further solidifying its reputation in the competitive food landscape.

Challenges and Triumphs

Like any successful business, Good Stuff Eatery has faced its share of challenges, but its resilience and adaptability have been key to its success.

Navigating the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges for restaurants nationwide, and Good Stuff Eatery was no exception. With indoor dining restrictions and safety concerns, the restaurant had to quickly pivot to ensure the safety of its staff and customers. Good Stuff Eatery implemented strict health protocols, including contactless payment options, increased sanitation measures, and enhanced outdoor dining setups.

Despite the difficulties, the restaurant found innovative ways to adapt. It expanded its takeout and delivery services, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite burgers from the comfort of home. Additionally, Spike leveraged his media presence to keep the restaurant in the public eye, reminding loyal customers of the delicious offerings available for takeout.

Community Support

Throughout the pandemic, Good Stuff Eatery maintained its commitment to community engagement. The restaurant participated in initiatives to support frontline workers by providing meals to hospitals and healthcare facilities. This philanthropic approach not only helped those in need but also strengthened the bond between Good Stuff Eatery and its community.

Resilience and Growth

As the world began to reopen, Good Stuff Eatery adapted once again, focusing on rebuilding its customer base while continuing to prioritize quality and service. The restaurant’s resilience during challenging times has solidified its place in the hearts of D.C. residents and visitors alike, proving that a commitment to excellence can withstand adversity.

Events, Catering, and Private Parties

Good Stuff Eatery is not just a burger joint; it also serves as a versatile venue for events and private parties, making it a popular choice for gatherings.

Catering Services

The restaurant offers catering services for various events, including corporate functions, weddings, and birthday parties. Good Stuff Eatery’s catering menu features a selection of its most popular items, allowing guests to enjoy the same high-quality food they would experience in the restaurant.

The catering team works closely with clients to create customized menus that fit their specific needs, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all attendees. From gourmet burgers to delicious sides, the catering service reflects the same attention to quality and detail that defines Good Stuff Eatery.

Private Events

For those looking to host private events, Good Stuff Eatery provides a welcoming atmosphere and customizable packages. The restaurant can accommodate both small and large gatherings, making it an ideal venue for celebrations. The team is dedicated to ensuring that every event is a success, offering personalized service and attention to detail.

Community Engagement Through Events

In addition to hosting private parties, Good Stuff Eatery is known for participating in local events and festivals. The restaurant often sets up booths at food festivals, showcasing its signature burgers and engaging with the community. This involvement not only allows Good Stuff Eatery to share its offerings with a wider audience but also reinforces its commitment to being an integral part of the local culinary scene.