Lunchbox Laboratory
Burgers, good burgers, have made a come back this year, which is a trend I can definitely get behind. Of the number of new burger joints that have opened up recently, Lunchbox Laboratory is among the best.
Located up in the Ballard neighborhood (73rd & 15th NW), the lab is the third restaurant opened by Scott Simpson - formerly of the Blue Onion Bistro and Fork (both closed). Third time's a charm maybe because this place delivers the goods.
The menu consists of burgers, sides, and beverages only, however it's what they do with these constraints that will amaze you. Burgers are made of your choice of beef - itself in a couple of iterations, lamb, buffalo, dork (duck/pork combo), or a vegetarian option of quinoa - falafel. Toppings run the gamut from plain jane all the way to seven pickle olive tartar. Sides include fancified versions of your usual french fries, potato salad, or mac n cheese, etc. Oh and as if you have room, there are milkshakes served in science lab glassware to be had as well. The soft drinks are fancy as well and include the much loved Mexican Coke (mmm).
The place is cutely decorated with 80s-style lunchboxes, however seating is very limited so it is probably best to plan on take out. There are picnic tables out front if the weather is (improbably) nice. The price point is a little high for a burger in general, but not really for what you're getting here, which is truly a gourmet burger.