When I think of a messy burger, I think of sauces dripping down my hands, bun tearing apart under the moisture. I think of sogginess and inhalation of meat before it can slip through my fingers. The St Johns has done with Lambtastic is a completely new kind of mess and I’m super here for it.
Loaded with onion bhaji, mango salsa and mint yoghurt, the burger does not lack for any elements of flavour. The spice mix that accompanies the fries is crunchy and spicy, but not at all hot. Pieces fall out and it leaves a scattered dry mess on the plate, without requiring wet wipes to rid my hands of stickiness. The inspiration for the flavours is clear, especially with the soft, chunky lamb shoulder patty marinated in tandoori spices. All these Indian flavours are balanced well against each other and have found themselves concentrated in certain areas of the burger. Some bites are a flavour bomb, and others are a little more subtle.
The Lambtastic is a really solid burger that presents itself authentically. It’s crunchy, soft, meaty and flavourful all at once. Ignore the side salad in the image, the burger was fresh enough without it.