So I did my research, found their Facebook page and decided
we would give them a try. Not really feeling like a night out, take away was
the decided method. So the precursor for the pictures is that they are in the
take away containers and the usual chef plating has not been applied. For those of you trying to think of where Chuck Wagon, it's in the old Cold Rock building, at the movie theater end of the street. Right, on
to the food!
![]() |
Interior |
I stuck to a few main items I always like to compare, the
burger and the onion rings. I also ordered the stuffed jalapeños and a side of
chilli cheese fries because I was hungry, real hungry. The order didn't take
too long to come out, taking into account that new places are generally still
teething in the first few weeks. Also, I was able to listen to the feedback of
other diners whilst waiting, which was all positive.
![]() |
These fries are making me thirsty! |
The onion rings were as good as I've had in Adelaide. Clearly freshly battered, nice and crispy fried with thick onions inside. Exactly how I
think they should be. Enough said, make sure you get them when you’re there.
The jalapeños were stuffed with cream cheese and wrapped in thick bacon. The
jalapeños weren't overly hot, but had that smokiness that balanced well with
the creamy cheese and fatty bacon. An OK side, not sure if I would get them
again next time.
Chuck w/cheese |
The patty is definitely a winner, still moist with a decent
crust and sufficient seasoning. It is served on the rarer side of medium, which
for me, is my preference. For others, including my wife, it isn't. If I was to
be negative about anything with this burger, it’s that the menu doesn't state
its serving style. If you were at a restaurant, you would be informed of the chef’s
preferred serving style for any cut of meat, and in addition, asked how you
would like it. I think if a burger place is going to serve a patty in a similar
style, then a similar disclaimer should be presented to the diner. I know this
is being picky, but it resulted in the meal not being enjoyed as much by her,
as she isn't much of a fan of rare meat.
After the patty, the simple additions of lettuce, tomato and
onions provide fresh and crunch to the burger. The aioli isn't strong, nor does
it need to be with such a juicy patty. The provolone cheese provided some creaminess, with good melt, but not overly strong, nor would you expect that from a provolone. Like many burger bars in Adelaide,
Breadtop buns are being used to provide a little sweetness, softness, whilst
also holding some good form til the end. I personally really enjoyed the
burger, the patty is definitely the king here, and that’s how I think it should
be. A stronger sauce might be a nice addition for those that like it saucy! I’d
rate it on the same level as my other favourites, Burger Theory and Press.
Maybe a better patty than those two.
Overall, for a burger location that is freshly opened, they
have got the basics right. Do your burgers and onion rings right, and I’m going
to return. It’s also great that there is some competition in the modern burger
scene in Adelaide, and some more suburban locations for us all to visit. I'll eat in next time, cos they have a bunch of free condiments!
Nathan gives Chuck Wagon 175 17/20 chops on The Chopping
Board.
Food: 8.5/10 – It would be higher if there was more
information about how the patty is cooked.
Ambiance: 4/5 – While I only got takeaway, while I waited,
the place had a good feel to it.
Service: 4.5/5 – Friendly for sure, I was even assisted to
the car with my 2 bags of takeaway!

Ooh good to know:)
ReplyDeleteClose to me
Hi Bec, you'll also find another good (not as new) burger place a bit further down O'Connell, Burgerstronomy. Check out our review on that too! Let us know what you think of either if you get the chance to visit.
ReplyDeleteI have been to burgastronomy a few times and was dissapointed every time. Won't return. Will try chuck wagon intead
DeleteSorry but the bread buns are NOT from BreadTop. They're from Nanna Hot Bake bakery. Please do some research before stating them on your blog.
ReplyDeleteYou sound like a twat
ReplyDeleteI tried this place recently - I'd eaten at Burgastronomy just prior to trying Chuck Wagon, but Burgastronomy has my repeat business.
ReplyDeleteI found the "Chilli" fries to be about as hot (spicy) as something they serve up in an old folks home. The fries are very average compared to the larger, hand cut, twice fried chips most decent places do.
The burger itself was very, very sloppy. Far too much liquid from the sauces, juices, etc. I needed to wring the thing out just to try and eat it. Not how a burger should be in my opinion.