A small handwritten sign at the front counter of Che Butter Jonez lets you know that no, they do not serve wings. But the counter service restaurant in southwest Atlanta does serve exceptional handheld food, including a best smashed burger in Atlanta contender, called the Who Wants Beef Son. It comes with two thin, crispy but juicy patties and a soft bun. You might miss them driving by on Cleveland Avenue, tucked away next to a Chevron, but that’d be your bad because the husband and wife duo also sells delicious salmon pitas, smashed lamb burgers, and bodega-style breakfast sandwiches. The best way to know what’s on the daily menu is to drop by the cute, airy space, and check it for yourself. Just know that when you get told “Oh, you’ll be back,” after your order, truer words have never been spoken.
Food Rundown
photo credit: Tabia S. Lisenbee-Parker
Who Wants Beef Son?
The is burger is a serious contender for the best smash burger in Atlanta. It has a crispy char that give the ground beef patty a satisfying mix of chew and crunch. The patties are well seasoned, so the burger is full of flavor despite its thin size. The soft bun is also a nice contrast to the crunch of the beef.
photo credit: Tabia S. Lisenbee-Parker
That Sh!t Slambing
A smashed lamb burger comes with crispy edges, lettuce, onion, and creamy and tangy special sauce. If you're worried about the lamb being gamey, don't be because it's juicy and flavorful. This is one of Che's signature items, and they have it down to a science.
photo credit: Tabia S. Lisenbee-Parker
The Barney Miller
We're not sure if this salmon pita is called Barney Miller because of the character Fish from the show, or what. Honestly, we don't care what it's named. The chopped salmon is well-seasoned, tender, fresh, and is served inside soft and fluffy pita bread. But be warned, it's completely stuffed so you might need both hands to hold it.
photo credit: Tabia S. Lisenbee-Parker
NY Halal
Juicy, delicious chicken shawarma is served with soft yellow rice, lettuce, peppers, and tzatziki-like white sauce. There's a drizzle red sauce for spice, and slices of warm, soft pita bread to sop it all up.