Overview
Ask any true Melbourne burger fiend and they're sure to have some fond, cheesy memories of the double patty smash creation from late Collingwood institution Rockwell and Sons. The long-running diner broke more than a few hearts when it shut up shop last year, and Chef and Co-Owner Casey Wall's famed beef burger bid farewell.
But, you can thank your lucky lockdown stars, because the legend is back in our lives once again; at least for a limited time. For the next month, sibling venue Bar Liberty — which has transformed into a bottle shop during stage four restrictions — is slinging DIY kits so you can recreate the double smash patty at home. Or, whip up a vegetarian-friendly black bean alternative, if that's more your speed. Available in limited amounts Tuesday to Sunday, the Rockwell and Sons at-home burger packs have been flying out the door, offering Melburnians a glimmer of goodness as they wade through this current stretch of Stay At Home orders.
Dominic Xavier
Each solo-serve smash pack clocks in at $15, featuring two uncooked O'Connor beef patties, a couple of Kraft Singles, a Martin's potato bun and some of Rockwell's special sauce. The vego version is similar, but teams two black bean patties with 'jazz' sauce and pickled green tomatoes. The website's even got handy step-by-step photo instructions showing how to prepare your burger feast — from cooking those patties to assembling the bun.
When you order online for in-store pick up, you'll also find a selection of add-ons, including creamy mac 'n' cheese ($9), Bar Liberty bottled negronis ($13) and four-packs of the bar's collaboration Table Beer made with Hop Nation ($20). And of course, there's a stack of interesting vino available on premises at the pop-up bottle shop.
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, a reminder that as the burgers are pick-up only, you can only get them if you live within five kilometres of Bar Liberty, in line with the current stage four restrictions.
The Rockwell and Sons At-Home Burger Packs are available Tuesday to Sunday for a limited time, for pick up from Bar Liberty, 234 Johnston Street, Fitzroy. Pre-order online via the website.
Images: Dominic Xavier