It seems like every culture has perfected a certain type of cuisine. The French have their pastries, the Italians their pasta, and the Swiss their chocolate. (The Swiss are pretty good at making watches, too. And bank accounts! Come to think of it, the Swiss are running up the score…)

I guess every country has their thing. When you think of tacos, you probably think of Mexico, and when you think of sushi, your mind goes to Japan.

So, what about the United States? What is our culinary claim to fame? Personally, if forced to choose, I’d say the burger is the quintessential American entrée.

And whenever someone asks me where they can find a great burger, my answer is the newly opened Pine Coast Café in Hilliard (about 20 minutes from Columbus).

You can practically taste the Americana in every bite of a good burger. I think the reason they feel so American is that above all, we are a practical culture. We don’t care how long it takes to cook something or how many years the chef went to a pretentious school. We just care that it tastes good. Americans are a utilitarian bunch.

Plus, a burger is one of those universal meals that is neither too informal nor too sophisticated for any situation. Everyone from broke college kids to powerful CEOs loves a good burger.

Don’t believe me? Warren Buffett, the wealthiest investor in the world, is known for requesting hamburgers even while dining with important politicians and foreign dignitaries. And really, who can blame him? Even when you’re a billionaire and can afford any type of food, it’s hard to pass up a good burger.

The truth is that not everyone can afford steak (have you seen the price of beef lately?), nor is eating a steak practical if you’re on the go. And Americans are a people on the go. We take fewer vacation days than almost any other industrialized country. That’s why we needed to make our lunches handheld and portable. The burger checks these boxes while still being a tasty way to get a solid midday serving of protein. (I should know — I’m a realtor!)

When you think about it, a burger is a steak… democratized for the common man. *cue the national anthem*

Yes, they have other items on the menu (salads, sandwiches, etc.), but let’s be honest: the real reason you go to Pine Coast is to get a burger. And don’t forget the zip sauce! You won’t regret it.