New restaurants keep popping up in downtown Detroit, but not all necessarily are worth visiting.
Metro Times dining editor Serena Maria Daniels, who's not shy about biting the hands that feed, isn't impressed with Wahlburgers, which opened this month in Greektown. The chain is owned by actor Mark Wahlberg and his brothers Donnie, a former member of New Kids on the Block, and chef Paul.
Daniels writes:
The signature "Our Burger" (Paul's Choice) is your classic burger joint fare: a third-pound patty, cooked medium (unless otherwise requested) on a simple bun, and topped with onions, lettuce, tomato, dill pickles, "government cheese" (an apparent nod to the family's working class background), and a tangy "Wahl sauce" (the chain's play on Mickey D's secret sauce). The patty looks kind of pre-formed and isn't all that interesting, but it'll hit the spot if you're looking for a little something to munch on before a game (price $7.75).
There's also "Mark's Favorite," the Thanksgiving Day Sandwich ($8.95) with a seasoned turkey burger, stuffing, mayo, an orange-cranberry sauce, and roasted butternut squash. The sammy definitely had hints of the famous holiday meal, though the patty was dry and bit bland.
Daniels offers little praise and concludes:
Overall, if we found ourselves craving a burger, Wahlburgers would not be at the top of our list. However, we can see it being appealing as a touristy eatery in a touristy part of town.
