Hanbao in Digbeth has built quite a reputation since opening back in April. Its LA and New York-inspired burgers have become the talk of Birmingham thanks to some outright bizarre – but no doubt delicious – flavour combinations. And we can’t get enough.
The most inspired of all has to be the Odd Future, however. It’s absolutely maddening to look at. It’s essentially a cheeseburger with a bacon trifecta of bacon jam, maple streaky bacon and baconnaise, as well as some chopped fresh chili. If that wasn’t enough, the burger buns have been replaced with a glazed donut (with sprinkles, of course) flipped inside out. It’s like living in the Upside Down.
It’s this out-of-the-box creativity that’s seen Hanbao – who opened their first location in Worcester in 2016 – gain so much attention. Other mind-boggling, yet mouth-watering burgers, includes the Honk Kong Phooey, which adds char siu pork belly and sesame slaw to a cheeseburger for a distinct Chinese-twist. While Caesers Palace balances tater tots on top of double-fried chicken and streaky bacon, dripping with Caesar dressing.
On top of the burgers, you can also order a variety of loaded fries. There are plenty of options smothered in toppings, such as char siu pork belly, sweet n sour shredded chicken, miso onions and bacon bits, all with a variety of other eastern and western toppings. A side order of chicken wings is a must too – miso honey glazed wings are our favourite.
When it comes to the actual restaurant itself, there is a distinct Hong Kong vibe – Hanbao means ‘burger’ in Mandarin. A clean-concrete and neon aesthetic makes Hanbao stand-out on Birmingham’s burger restaurant scene. But the burger joint still manages to offer a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Perfect for tucking into these guilty pleasure burgers. It’s even easier to unwind when you order one of Hanbao’s killer cocktails too.
Of course it’s the bonkers and brilliant burgers that will hook you in most. So check out the rest of the menu and book your table by heading here.