While Shannon Bennett's best known for his work helming fine dining institutions like Vue de Monde, the acclaimed chef reminded us he can also make a pretty mean burger, launching Benny Burger within Sydney Airport's international terminal last April.
Now it's Melbourne's turn for a slice of the action, with Bennett's first of three Victorian Benny Burger venues opening in Richmond. The Swan Street store's built on the same philosophy as the original, championing real ingredients, organic local produce and ethical practices.
The name pays homage to Bennett's father Benny, and the food menu is peppered with childhood memories of the homemade burgers he'd throw on the barbie each weekend. Speaking of, the menu is an impressive lineup of 11 burger varieties, a couple of all-day brekkie options, fries and daily salads. Get your hands around a classic beef-filled Mr Burns, or go meat-free with the beetroot and chickpea Yoga Burger.
There's even a cheeky reference to American Momofuku chef David Chang, who famously claimed "Australia has no idea what a burger is". He's invited to eat his words with The Chang, a hefty combo teaming beetroot relish, wagyu beef and a fried egg, with lots of other locally-sourced goodies.