Revenge is a dish best served…
As men, we often engage in playful banter and lighthearted criticism of each other. It’s a common bonding experience for a group of guys to gather, have some beers, and poke fun at one another without holding back. This kind of interaction is a core part of male camaraderie. Embracing this spirit, I playfully targeted Brad Lyons, Slater’s 50/50’s Executive Chef, by declaring that his weakness is an Asian fusion burger. I’m not sure if Brad or Scott Slater, the owner of Slater’s 50/50, had read any of my previous blog posts, particularly the one about the Asian Pork Belly Burger. Regardless, an opportunity for them to respond arose during the filming of an episode for Travel Channel‘s Food Paradise.
Food Paradise is showcasing some of the hottest and spiciest food and drinks across the nation. The 50 Alarm Burger, Slater’s Buffalo Chicken Mac ‘N Cheese, Latitude 33’s Spicy Camel, and Ironfire’s 7th Ring of NüHELL IPL definitely fit the bill. I boldly requested that O.G. Chris, Slater’s 50/50’s bar manager, inform the staff and film crew that I was going all-in and trying everything on camera.
The 50 Alarm Burger is a formidable creation: Naga Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Chilies), beer-battered (unseeded and aged cream cheese stuffed) Habanero poppers, sliced and freshly ripened Jalapeños, three-alarm Colby Jack cheese, and ghost chili-bacon jam all piled onto a white brioche bun.
With my waiver signed, gloves on, camera rolling, and sound checked, everyone watched me with eager anticipation. I took a bite, and the fresh Jalapeño immediately assaulted my senses, charging up my nostrils and then retreating down my esophagus. The battle had begun. I continued, chewing the fiery patty. The cream cheese-stuffed Habanero poppers exploded on my tongue. Eating and talking simultaneously was a challenge. My facial expressions were intense, reflecting the burger’s heat. My head was sweating, my mouth was on fire, and I sought relief from Ironfire’s 7th Ring of NüHELL. I chugged the beer, noticing the film crew’s amazement, and took another bite of the burger before turning to the Buffalo Chicken Mac ‘N Cheese for further refuge. The bleu cheese offered some comfort, but not enough to quell the attack of the hidden hot buffalo chicken bites. Defeated, the filming stopped, and I quickly asked for a glass of milk. The war was over.
I humbly acknowledged Scott and Brad’s victory. The 50 Alarm Burger had successfully annihilated my taste buds and digestive system. Off camera, I finished the burger and both beers, and even took the Buffalo Chicken Mac ‘N Cheese home.
Scott and Brad may have won this round, but looking at the 2014 Slater’s 50/50 Burger Bracket and seeing the Orange Chicken Burger’s low ranking of 29%, I stand by my opinion: an Asian fusion burger remains the Achilles’ heel of my friend and executive chef, Brad Lyons.
…HOT!!!
UPDATE August 3, 2014
Hot & Spicy Paradise 2 – Original Airdate: Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Slater’s 50/50 Pasadena
61 North Raymond Ave.
Pasadena, CA 91103
(626) 586-1047
Hours: Sun 9:30a.m. – 11:00p.m., Mon-Thurs 11:00a.m. – 11:00p.m.,
Fri & Sat 11:00a.m. – 12:00a.m.
Breakfast is back every Sunday, starting at 9:30a.m. during regular football season!
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