Supernova Burger: A review of this Soho hit

What is Supernova?

Supernova, London’s latest sensation in the restaurant scene, is the brainchild of David Bellaiche and Gabriel Cohen-Elia. As per GQ, the widely acclaimed burger at Supernova draws inspiration from the renowned Parisian burger spot, Dumbo. Much like Dumbo, Supernova embraces the trend of hype marketing, featuring a concise menu, an Instagram-friendly aesthetic, and efficient counter service.

The burger joint offers a brief menu, details of which can be found below, all at a reasonable price point. It’s worth noting, however, that the establishment is not without its challenges, particularly the queue, which is carefully managed with its own system. Fortunately, the queue is conveniently located next to a Co-Op, allowing you to satisfy small cravings while awaiting your turn.

Credibility to my Burger review:

Before diving into this review, I want to highlight my extensive experience and passion for burgers. I believe that my perspective on this burger would lack credibility if my culinary journey had been limited to just fast-food classics like Big Macs. Over the years, I’ve traveled considerable distances in pursuit of exceptional burgers and have sampled a wide variety. I’ve even opted for a well-crafted burger over signature dishes. In my quest for the perfect burger, I ventured to Denmark to engage in a burger war between an ex-Noma chef and a burger that earned its place among the top 27 in the world. I can confidently assert that, in my opinion, Super Nova surpasses them both!

Now onto my review of supernova burger:

Its funny usually I don’t review things on the blog so fast, but this burger had such an effect on me that I told my boyfriend to stay quiet for the train journey home while I scribbled my thoughts down.

The burger:

Let’s begin with the bun—the cornerstone of any burger. Supernova pays meticulous attention to this crucial detail. The buns undergo a double toasting process, resulting in a warm and soft texture when held. The buttery and fluffy qualities of the bun not only enhance the overall experience but also effectively absorb any residual grease from the patty.

The emphasis inside is squarely on the meat, making it the primary flavor profile. The patty’s flatness ensures an intense sear, creating a crispy exterior and a distinctly meaty taste, complemented by the boosted flavor from the salt. While I typically save the middle of my burger for last, with this one, you’ll find yourself savoring the flavorful edges.

A standout feature of this burger is the prominent and well-preserved taste of the cheese. It avoids the plastic texture often associated with melted cheese, presenting a melted and mature flavor profile.

The pickles and onions seamlessly integrate into the patty’s taste, avoiding a distinct presence. This integration suits my preference, as it mitigates the risk of these additions overpowering the overall taste.

Lastly, the sauce—reminiscent of a Big Mac sauce but leaning towards creaminess rather than tanginess.

If I were to make any improvement to this already impressive burger, I’d suggest adding lettuce for a refreshing crunch.

What sets this burger apart is its lightness, unlike the typical heaviness I experience after indulging in a burger. Instead of feeling tired and worn down, the post-burger clarity goes amiss. It’s akin to sex in a long-term relationship.

The sides

Supernova exclusively offers one side, which happens to be hand-cut fries. While slightly greasy, they boast a delightful crispiness on the outside and a soft interior.

Additionally, the restaurant provides a variety of options beyond burgers, including sundaes, homemade iced tea, and classic soft drinks in cans.

The atmosphere

The atmosphere stood out as my least favorite aspect of the experience. It strongly reminded me of the bear, creating a sense of overstimulation. The pressure shifted from the kitchen to the dynamics of the queue.

Space was a premium, with a crowd of people all eagerly awaiting their orders. Negotiating the tight quarters became a delicate dance, attempting not to disturb those lucky enough to secure a spot at a standing table. These diners hurriedly enjoyed their burgers to avoid appearing rude. We chose to spare ourselves an uncomfortable eating situation and opted for an empty stairwell in Soho to enjoy our long-awaited patties.

This raises the question: How much of the burger’s brilliance is attributed to the placebo effect of enduring such struggles? Standing in the cold for an hour, listening to arguments nearby, with music blaring in your ears, and standing shoulder to shoulder as your burger is prepared, only to rush and find a spot to eat it—does this difficulty amplify the perceived success of the food, creating a cathartic release and reward?

Despite the constant influx of customers, the chefs at work deserve commendation. They manage the chaos with excellent customer service, politely addressing any questions about the food and the restaurant. Despite the formidable line they contend with, they take care not to rush any customer.