Should Tomato Go Above or Below the Burger Patty

Question

Everyone says different things and all the photos are different! Which is correct and why?
bottom bun \> sauce \> lettuce \>tomato \>burger (cheese) \> more sauce \> top bun.
OR
bottom bun \> sauce \> lettuce \> \>burger (cheese) \> tomato\> more sauce \> top bun.

Lynn Clark · Accepted Answer

Hi Natalie -
If you asked ten different people this question we guess you would probably find the answers split down the middle.
Some folks believe that it should go bun, burger, cheese, tomato, (onion, pickles) and lettuce on top arguing that the hot cheese will “glue” the tomato in place and keeping the lettuce further from the hot burger will keep it from wilting.
Others feel that all of the toppings should actually be “bottomings” since the lettuce can act as a barrier between the burger and the bun to collect any juices that might make the bottom bun soggy. We feel like this stacking order is particularly preferred if you are using shredded lettuce and onions since they create a pretty tight bundle on the bottom that doesn’t slip and slide.
Whichever stacking method you choose (and it’s really personal preference), make sure to add condiments to both the bottom and top bun. We like the more delicate flavor of mayo on top and ketchup and mustard on the bottom, but if you’re using a burger sauce just add a dollop to both buns. This will help secure whatever you add next.
Hope that helps!
Best,
The Milk Street Team

Should Tomato Go Above or Below the Burger Patty

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