Latest news with #TrumpBurger
Time of India
3 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
'Trump burger' gets scathing reviews from food critics: 'Consistent in blandness'
A new Trump Burger restaurant that opened in Houston, Texas, this month has been panned by food critics, one reviewer describing its burgers as "consistent in blandness." A restaurant chain inspired by President Donald Trump has gained attention online, with some customers praising its offerings. The pro-Donald Trump chain has been praised by some customers online, one saying it had "amazing food," another that its burgers were "really really good", reports Newsweek. Trump remains a central figure among Republican voters, with 50% identifying with his 'Make America Great Again' (MAGA) movement, according to a recent YouGov/The Economist poll. Discontent among conservatives with mainstream brands has also led to the rise of politically themed products like 'Ultra Right' beer, created in response to Bud Light's partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. ALSO READ: One dead, several injured as severe weather hits Washington County, Kentucky Trump Burger restaurant On May 9, Trump Burger opened a new location in Houston, joining other branches in Bellville, Flatonia, and Kemah. Founded by Lebanese immigrant Roland Beainy, the chain is heavily branded with Trump imagery, including cutouts, photos, and campaign materials throughout the restaurants. Live Events The menu features items like the 8oz Trump Cheeseburger and the 16oz Trump Tower, both served with fries, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles, and the chain's signature 'Trump Sauce.' There's also a satirical 'Biden Burger' listed, described as a 1oz patty with 'not fresh' lettuce and 'old buns,' priced at $50.99 and humorously marked 'not available for cheating reasons.' ALSO READ: Will you get a refund for Trump tariffs after federal court's ruling? Check details What do the critics say? In a May 9 review for the Houston Chronicle, Yi-Chin Lee critiqued the food after visiting the Houston and Kemah locations. Lee described the burgers as 'consistently bland,' comparing them to something 'a cargo-short-wearing dad might serve while cosplaying a Food Network grill master once a year.' He noted a lack of grill flavor, juiciness, or melted cheese. Regarding the sides, Lee commented that while fries arrived hot and crispy on the outside, they were often soggy inside or overly salted. He reported seeing frozen fries taken from a brown bag and said the onion rings lacked texture and sweetness. However, he gave a more favorable review of the First Lady Chicken Sandwich—a nod to Melania Trump—praising its nicely grilled chicken breast and cheese. Another review, published May 15 by Eater Houston, echoed similar sentiments. Writer Brittany Britto Garley found the burgers thick but flavorless, topped with 'waxy cheese.' While the meals were affordable, she noted better options exist at similar prices elsewhere. Describing her experience, Garley said one location had an uncomfortable atmosphere: 'The vibe wasn't festive—it was stiff, uncertain, and uncomfortable, particularly for me, a woman of color. The other diners avoided eye contact.' ALSO READ: Elon Musk exits White House, 'poaches' top Trump aide Stephen Miller's wife Katie for private sector role Customer reactions Despite mixed professional reviews, the Bellville branch enjoys a strong 4.4-star rating on Google, based on over 1,500 reviews. One satisfied customer, Dave Fredrick, awarded five stars, saying, 'Amazing food. 10/10 will eat here again… Close to the best mushroom and Swiss I've had in a long time!' Another reviewer, Maureen Guzman, also gave five stars, writing, 'Small town patriotic vibes at Trump Cafe! Burgers were really really good!' Other feedback was more tempered. Victoria Ramos gave three stars, describing the restaurant as a 'novelty' and saying she wasn't eager to return but might try again someday. In a January 2024 review for UponArriving, Daniel Gillaspia remarked that while the vegetables were fresh, the burger patty reminded him of 'cafeteria-style patties—not terrible, just not amazing.' He did, however, praise the fries for their crispy texture and called the overall experience 'decent.' Trump Burger's future growth may hinge not just on customer appetite but on how closely its brand remains tied to Trump's political trajectory. Whether it expands further—or flames out—remains to be seen.
Miami Herald
3 days ago
- Politics
- Miami Herald
‘Trump Burger' Gets Scathing Reviews From Food Critics: ‘Bland'
A new Trump Burger restaurant that opened in Houston, Texas, this month has been panned by food critics, one reviewer describing its burgers as "consistent in blandness." The pro-Donald Trump chain has been praised by some customers online, one saying it had "amazing food," another that its burgers were "really really good." Newsweek contacted Trump Burger for comment on Friday outside of regular office hours via email. President Trump remains popular with Republican voters 50 percent of whom identify as part of his Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement according to a recent YouGov/The Economist poll. Conservative dissatisfaction with mainstream brands has led to the launch of a series of partisan products including 'Ultra Right' beer, created in response to Bud Light's relationship with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. On May 9, Trump Burger opened a new outlet in Houston, adding to restaurants in Bellville, Flatonia and Kemah. The chain, founded by Lebanese immigrant Roland Beainy, is branded around Trump with its restaurants featuring pictures and cutouts of the president along with his campaign material. Its menu includes the 8oz Trump Cheeseburger and the 16oz Trump Tower, both with fries, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles and Trump Sauce. A Biden Burger is also jokingly listed, which consists of "1 oz. beef, topped with tomato lettuce (not fresh) and our old buns." This satirical product is priced at $50.99 and marked as "not available for cheating reasons." On Thursday the Houston Chroniclepublished a review of Trump Burger from Yi-Chin Lee, based on visits to its Houston and Kemah restaurants. Lee said the chain's burgers were "consistent in blandness" describing one as "like one a cargo-short-wearing dad might serve when he's cosplaying a Food Network grill master once a year for a holiday picnic." He added: "It's missing the craggy edges which tells you the meat hasn't been on a hot grill for just enough time to develop that beefy flavor. There's no trace of char or smoke. Each bite doesn't leave you wanting more because there's no juiciness, and a slice of American cheese is barely melted." Referring to the fries, Lee said: "The regular and sweet potato fries arrived hot and crisp on the exterior, but they were either soggy inside or oversalted. I've watched the kitchen pull frozen fries from a brown bag, too. Onion rings also lacked that contrast between a well-fried exterior and tender sweetness of an allium." However he described the First Lady Chicken Sandwich, a tribute to Melania Trump, as "better than the burger, with a nicely grilled, not-too-dry chicken breast draped with two slices of American cheese." A review of the chain was also published on May 15 by Eater Houston, a food review website focused around the Texan city. Author Brittany Britto Garley, who visited multiple Trump Burger branches, concluded: "The chargrilled burger patties are thick but bland, topped with a waxy cheese that lacks any memorable flavor. The fries are crisp, and the meals affordable, clocking in at around the same price as you can get a burger and fries at another, arguably better, burger joint." Referring to the atmosphere at one outlet Garley said: "As I walked in on a recent Sunday, the tension, likely combined with our nervousness, felt palpable. Here, the vibe wasn't festive-it was stiff, uncertain, and uncomfortable, particularly for me, a woman of color. The other diners present avoided eye contact." However the Trump Burger branch in Bellville had a positive, 4.4 stars out of five, rating on Google reviews, based on 1,509 customer ratings. Dave Fredrick, a customer, gave five stars and wrote: "Amazing food. 10/10 will eat here again for absolute pleasure. My burger was made perfectly and so was my spouse['s] burger. I have to say it was close to being the best mushroom and Swiss I've had in a long time!!! Definitely recommend this place!!" Maureen Guzman also gave five stars adding: "Small town patriotic vibes at Trump Cafe! It didn't disappoint. Burgers were really really good! Will go back next time we are in Bellville." Victoria Ramos was more critical, only giving three stars out of five. She said: "My family and I visited around 2:30 on a Saturday afternoon and it was moderately busy. Definitely a novelty kind of establishment as I don't feel the need to return, but wouldn't object to another try at a later time." In a January 2024 article for review website UponArriving, former Trump Burger customer Daniel Gillaspia said: "The veggies on the burger appeared fresh, although the patty didn't quite match my personal taste. It had a reminiscent quality of those cafeteria-style patties-not terrible, just not the kind that leaves you with amazement. "On the flip side, the fries were a highlight, boasting a nice and crispy texture. All in all, I'd categorize the food as decent, falling in line with your typical burger joint fare." It remains to be seen whether Trump Burger will continue to expand and to what extent its fortune will be tied to the political trials and tribulations of its presidential namesake. Related Articles Soldier Pardoned by Trump Shares 'Plandemic' Conspiracy ImageGovernment Worker Angry With Trump Tried To Leak Classified Material: FBIDonald Trump Accuses China of Violating Deal After He Tried to Be NiceTrump Accuses China of Breaking Trade Deal, Markets React: Live Updates 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
Newsweek
3 days ago
- Politics
- Newsweek
'Trump Burger' Gets Scathing Reviews From Food Critics: 'Bland'
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A new Trump Burger restaurant that opened in Houston, Texas, this month has been panned by food critics, one reviewer describing its burgers as "consistent in blandness." The pro-Donald Trump chain has been praised by some customers online, one saying it had "amazing food," another that its burgers were "really really good." Newsweek contacted Trump Burger for comment on Friday outside of regular office hours via email. Why It Matters President Trump remains popular with Republican voters 50 percent of whom identify as part of his Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement according to a recent YouGov/The Economist poll. Conservative dissatisfaction with mainstream brands has led to the launch of a series of partisan products including 'Ultra Right' beer, created in response to Bud Light's relationship with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. What To Know On May 9, Trump Burger opened a new outlet in Houston, adding to restaurants in Bellville, Flatonia and Kemah. The chain, founded by Lebanese immigrant Roland Beainy, is branded around Trump with its restaurants featuring pictures and cutouts of the president along with his campaign material. Its menu includes the 8oz Trump Cheeseburger and the 16oz Trump Tower, both with fries, lettuce, tomato, onions, pickles and Trump Sauce. A burger at Trump Burger restaurant, in Bellville, Texas, on April 19, 2025. A burger at Trump Burger restaurant, in Bellville, Texas, on April 19, 2025. RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP/GETTY A Biden Burger is also jokingly listed, which consists of "1 oz. beef, topped with tomato lettuce (not fresh) and our old buns." This satirical product is priced at $50.99 and marked as "not available for cheating reasons." On Thursday the Houston Chronicle published a review of Trump Burger from Yi-Chin Lee, based on visits to its Houston and Kemah restaurants. Lee said the chain's burgers were "consistent in blandness" describing one as "like one a cargo-short-wearing dad might serve when he's cosplaying a Food Network grill master once a year for a holiday picnic." He added: "It's missing the craggy edges which tells you the meat hasn't been on a hot grill for just enough time to develop that beefy flavor. There's no trace of char or smoke. Each bite doesn't leave you wanting more because there's no juiciness, and a slice of American cheese is barely melted." Referring to the fries, Lee said: "The regular and sweet potato fries arrived hot and crisp on the exterior, but they were either soggy inside or oversalted. I've watched the kitchen pull frozen fries from a brown bag, too. Onion rings also lacked that contrast between a well-fried exterior and tender sweetness of an allium." However he described the First Lady Chicken Sandwich, a tribute to Melania Trump, as "better than the burger, with a nicely grilled, not-too-dry chicken breast draped with two slices of American cheese." A review of the chain was also published on May 15 by Eater Houston, a food review website focused around the Texan city. Author Brittany Britto Garley, who visited multiple Trump Burger branches, concluded: "The chargrilled burger patties are thick but bland, topped with a waxy cheese that lacks any memorable flavor. The fries are crisp, and the meals affordable, clocking in at around the same price as you can get a burger and fries at another, arguably better, burger joint." People visit and dine at the Trump Burger restaurant in Bellville, Texas, on April 19, 2025. People visit and dine at the Trump Burger restaurant in Bellville, Texas, on April 19, 2025. RONALDO SCHEMIDT/AFP/GETTY Referring to the atmosphere at one outlet Garley said: "As I walked in on a recent Sunday, the tension, likely combined with our nervousness, felt palpable. Here, the vibe wasn't festive—it was stiff, uncertain, and uncomfortable, particularly for me, a woman of color. The other diners present avoided eye contact." However the Trump Burger branch in Bellville had a positive, 4.4 stars out of five, rating on Google reviews, based on 1,509 customer ratings. Dave Fredrick, a customer, gave five stars and wrote: "Amazing food. 10/10 will eat here again for absolute pleasure. My burger was made perfectly and so was my spouse['s] burger. I have to say it was close to being the best mushroom and Swiss I've had in a long time!!! Definitely recommend this place!!" Maureen Guzman also gave five stars adding: "Small town patriotic vibes at Trump Cafe! It didn't disappoint. Burgers were really really good! Will go back next time we are in Bellville." Victoria Ramos was more critical, only giving three stars out of five. She said: "My family and I visited around 2:30 on a Saturday afternoon and it was moderately busy. Definitely a novelty kind of establishment as I don't feel the need to return, but wouldn't object to another try at a later time." In a January 2024 article for review website UponArriving, former Trump Burger customer Daniel Gillaspia said: "The veggies on the burger appeared fresh, although the patty didn't quite match my personal taste. It had a reminiscent quality of those cafeteria-style patties—not terrible, just not the kind that leaves you with amazement. "On the flip side, the fries were a highlight, boasting a nice and crispy texture. All in all, I'd categorize the food as decent, falling in line with your typical burger joint fare." What Happens Next It remains to be seen whether Trump Burger will continue to expand and to what extent its fortune will be tied to the political trials and tribulations of its presidential namesake.
Eater
3 days ago
- Business
- Eater
The Biggest Houston Restaurant News This Month, May 2025
Catch up on each month's most exciting food and dining news in Eater Houston's newest column. 5) Houston's Genesis Steakhouse Becomes Exodus and Pivots to a Non-Kosher Menu Diners were particularly interested in news that Houston's formerly kosher steakhouse Genesis Steakhouse and Wine Bar, which closed in April, will be resurrected as Exodus Bar and Grill. In its second act, owner Jason Goldstein says the restaurant will not be entirely kosher, but will still feature kosher-certified steaks and chickens, along with dishes like cheeseburgers, gumbo, sushi, and beef short rib. 4) Turkey Leg Hut Allegedly Sold California-Grown Pot Out of Branded Bags in Houston The Turkey Leg Hut drama just doesn't stop. In early May, an FBI agent testified against former Turkey Leg Hut owner Lynn Price, alleging in a bond hearing that the agency collected evidence that the restaurant was used to store and sell large quantities of marijuana from out of state. This follows an April indictment in which Price faces federal charges of arson for his alleged role in the June 2020 fire at Bar 5015, an establishment owned by Price's former colleague and business partner. 3) Everything You Need to Know About Dining and Drinking at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) A sign that summer travel is just getting started? This guide directing travelers to the best places to dine did significant numbers in May. Among the best options are Pala for pizza, Hugo's Cocina, the airport's newest outpost of the Annie, and the Breakfast Klub, especially for those early morning flights. 2) Houston Billionaire Tilman Fertitta Officially Trades in the Restaurateur Life for the Trump Administration In late April, the U.S. Senate confirmed Tillman Fertitta, one of Houston's most successful and richest restaurateurs, as the U.S. Ambassador to Italy and San Marino. This means Fertitta, who owns the Houston Rockets, will forfeit more than 600 U.S. businesses and restaurants, many of which are in the Houston area. What could this mean for his hospitality group Landry's, with dozens of family-friendly restaurants around the region? Stay tuned. 1) We Tried Trump Burger in Texas So You Don't Have To Trump Burger, which loudly proclaims its support for President Donald Trump, has quickly become one of the most controversial fast-casual restaurants in Texas. What started as one politically charged burger joint in Bellville, Texas, in 2020 has since expanded to a chainlet across the region, bringing its unapologetically MAGA branding to cities like Flatonia, Texas; Kemah, Texas; and, most recently, West Houston on Chimney Rock Road. So, how does Trump Burger really stack up to the compelling burger options already in Space City? Eater Houston tried the burger (and endured the discomfort) so you don't have to. Here's a rundown on the experience. In Case You Missed It: Need more travel inspiration? Here are some of Eater's recent maps pointing you to the best restaurants in waterside cities like Port Aransas, Galveston, Kemah, and Seabrook. And if a suburban getaway is what you seek, there's a map for that, too. Sign up for our newsletter. 3410 Chimney Rock Road, Houston, TX 77057
Mint
29-04-2025
- Politics
- Mint
'Trump burger': Texas joint brings crowd on 100 days of Donald Trump administration, offers ‘stale Biden burger' too
Donald Trump completed 100 days of his second term as the US President on April 29. His influence goes beyond Washington as miles away in a small Texas town northwest of Houston, a Trump-themed burger joint is grabbing everyone's attention. A video from the Bellville joint showcases how each burger bun is carefully branded with the name 'Trump.' The joint comes decorated with Trump cardboard cutouts, 2024 campaign banners, and shelves full of MAGA merchandise. On the menu, one can find popular dishes like 'Trump Burger' and the double patty 'Trump Tower' which costs $16.99. Besides these, they also serve 'Biden Burger', made with 'stale buns and old tomatoes'. Priced at USD 50.99, the Biden burger remains 'unavailable due to cheating and inflation.' Opened in 2020, the spot is said to be a weekend hotspot for bikers, families, and Trump supporters alike. In the same town, Trump reportedly won 80% of the votes in the 2024 election. Talking about 100 days of Donald Trump in administration, a 59-year-old retiree, Kim Vanek said, as per AFP, "I think they've gone wonderful you know. He's been planning now on four years to get back in here and people think it's going to happen overnight… (that) things are going to change overnight, it's not. But, he's on the right path. You're going to see a lot of good things come out of the next three years.' "I think with this administration you knew with the second round that he was going to come out guns blazing. And I think especiallya lot of people that voted and supported him were very happy about it. Because I think that the first 100 days are the most impactful. And while I think the aggressive approach has definitely been good towards his agenda and the implementation of it and even some of the people are pretty questionable," added another August money who did not vote for Trump. Despite its Trump-themed decor, the restaurant has no formal connection to the Trump Organisation. Meanwhile, the US president is holding a rally in Michigan on Tuesday to mark the first 100 days of his second term, his largest public event since returning to the White House. Michigan was one of the battleground states Trump snatched from the Democratic column. But the state has also been deeply affected by his tariffs, including on new imported cars and auto parts. First Published: 29 Apr 2025, 06:25 PM IST
