Offering an unlikely, but incredibly good, combination of meaty Americana burgers and curated wine list, Hoodburger 848 is the neighbourhood joint we’d be happy to keep a secret.
The expansion of Hoodburger into a neighbourhood burger shop wine bar in late 2021 was perhaps an unexpected move, but it looks an exceptionally good one. Where next door Hoodburger delivers its own form of nostalgic Americana with retro diner nods and smash-patty burgers, 848 is a slightly darker, slightly moodier alternative.
The burgers remain – passed over from next door – but the biggest draw is the drinks. Yes, there’s a framed wine list mounted on the wall, but make the most of the expertise on offer and let the barkeep walk you through the bottles that have been opened for the night, which you’ll find chilling in a plastic esky on the counter, or mix a classic or signature cocktail to suit your taste. If you do veer towards wine, expect it to be from the prog-rock camp – think Jauma pet-nat from McLaren Vale, skinsy oranges from Italy and plenty of light red with one eye on Europe.
Where next door Hoodburger delivers its own form of nostalgic Americana with retro diner nods and smash-patty burgers, 848 is a slightly darker, slightly moodier alternative.
Cheese? Cured meats? Bread? Dips? They have them, and they’re elevated enough to be interesting. But don’t leave without ordering a burger: the beef version is well seasoned and juicy, the patty with signature crisp edges; another stuffed with crisp chicken tenders, lettuce, cheese and onion is a straight-up classic, well done. Fried honey-butter chicken tenders make a moreish sweet-salty side order, even if mash and gravy is gluey.
Inglewood’s best-kept secret? Maybe, but on this form don’t expect it to remain a quiet neighbourhood haunt for long, especially when the fries go so well with something crisp and light in your glass. Who said drinking good wine needed to be fancy?
