Chester's

Chester's
Labor day weekend

My friend Phil was in town from New Mexico and had a hankering for one of our mutual favorite burger spots.  He and I used to eat there when we worked together, and Chester's is a depot of many good memories of fries with friends.

Service and Setting

Located on several major access roads to San Antonio highways, you're never too far from a Chester's.  You order at the counter and pick up a few minutes later.  The beer is on display in a several door cooler behind the counter.  Employees have always been friendly on my visits.

Menu

1/3 lb griddle burgers are offered in multiples with options of bacon, chili and green chilis.  Fresh cut fries and onion rings  accompany your meat.  They also have options for ice cream and shakes.
I got a green chili burger once; I hope it was just a miscommunication because they served the chilis in a plastic container on the side.  Fish basket and grilled cheese are the only veg options.

Beverage
The bottled beer selection rivals that of Specs.  They have everything from ciders to porters, coming from California to Brussels.  I'll say the only problem is that you have to view it from 10ft away through a cooler door.  No pricing scheme I can figure out before you order it, and pretty difficult to read subtle differences between varieties offered from a single brewery at that distance.  Also, no glasses or mugs, so everything is imbibed out of the bottle.

Sides

Fresh cut french fries done right.  Nice and crispy that keep their potato flavor instead of just oil.  I had a hot dog on the side.  They slice it the long way and dress with onions, relish and mustard.  I had to ask for additional mustard.  I didn't taste like 100% beef which offends my Chicago roots.  It was fine.

Patty

1/3 lb fresh beef cooked on the griddle.  It is probably the only burger place that can actually make a medium-rare griddle burger.  Excellent griddle flavor with a good amount of juice.  Make it a double if you're hungry.

Dress and Bun
Their poppy seed bun is iconic.  Always fresh, always delicious.  Good produce and good pickle slices.

Geoff's take: "Hard to say it's on the same level as Big'z."

The Verdict
In reality, I should probably abstain from giving a rating given the sentimental over-valuation Chester's has for me.  Despite this, I'll put journalistic integrity aside for a reliable and friendly spot that I will alway associate with San Antonio.  5 spurs it is.