I am on the hunt for a superior burger. One that is on a higher level than the usual frozen patty and grocery store bun that is offered at local eateries. And I found a really good burger on the lunch menu at the Flying Tomato in Graham.

The regular menu at this establishment is pricey. A plate of spaghetti and meatballs is $13, but having had their Pretzel Burger at $5, I am willing to give their other selections a try.

The burger was a good size. I estimate at least one-third of a pound. It was grilled, not fried, and cooked to order. I like my beef on the rare side, but settled for medium, and it was cooked all the way through but was still juicy and tasted like meat, not the last thing cooked on the grill.

It came on a pretzel bun which had a nice firm texture, but was still soft enough to bite without squishing the sandwich. The bun tasted like the best salted soft pretzel, and held all the juices from the patty without dripping. Fresh young salad greens were used instead of lettuce, and a mayo/dressing was spread on top to compliment these greens. A good bite gave you a taste of everything, and it was hard to stop once I started eating. Gobbling is just so rude, don’t you think? Nice crispy fries came along in the basket, and everything was gone at the end of my meal.

I wanted to sample something else while I was at the Flying Tomato, and tried the lunch pizza, also $5. Sausage, mushrooms, onions and tomato sauce was my order. It had lots of toppings, wood-fire baked crust, and was also delicious.

This is a cute place with industrial decor, lots of seating, and great service.

And they make a really good hamburger.

IF YOU GO

Flying Tomato Italian Bar and Grill

10223 198th St. E. in Graham

253-875-0770

Hours: 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, and noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday