Bill or Beak (Burgers) – Camden Market, London

If you haven’t heard of Bill or Beak in north west London’s Camden Market, it’s probably because they only went fully Halal earlier this year.

Owner Josh goes fully Halal

Although Halal chicken has been served for some time now, the decision to go entirely so was only made after owner Josh was able to source the quality of produce his multi-award winning menu demanded.

Since leaving a successful corporate career to launch his business in 2014, Bill or Beak has gained significant recognition with a number of accolades and awards.

The menu is short and to the point with a choice of two burgers: Smashed Patty Cheese Burger, which can be doubled up; and the Buffalo Fried Chicken Burger – both of which can be upgraded to meals that include Cheesy Fries and a drink.

While the street food vendor only accepts card payments, members of the NHS can receive a 10% discount on all items.

Smashed Patty Cheese Burger – single £8.00; double £11.00

You can imagine the level of thought, attention to detail, and refinement invested into a menu as limited as Bill or Beak’s.

And this was no better demonstrated than by the Smashed Patty Cheese Burger, which, we can say, turned out to be one of the best we’ve had this year and, dare we say, a probable contender for next month’s FtLion end of year awards.

What made this stand out from the crowd was the evident experience and expertise translated over into patties that boasted three indispensible characteristics: 1) caramelisation that assures some textural contrast; 2) that umami taste of quality beef; 3) properly seasoned meat, which so many others criminally overlook.

Add to that the sweetness of the caramelised onions and a copious amount of gooey cheese, all encased in a pillowy-soft brioche bun, and we couldn’t get enough. Absolutely superb!

Buffalo Fried Chicken Burger, £7.50

And this Buffalo Fried Chicken Burger definitely stood out, both visually and orally, from the competition out there.

For one, this piece of poultry, while being soft and succulent on the inside, was actually uber crunchy on the out, and flavoured with a buffalo marination which some, particularly those who prefer theirs to pack more of a piquant punch, may find a little measured.

Nevertheless, this was liberally coated in a buttery sauce, and had enough going on to make it one delicious mouthful after another.

Cheesy Fries, £4.00 (Buffalo Burger Meal £12.00; Cheese Burger Meal £13.00)

And finally, there’s simply no way that you won’t find these perfectly fried, skin-on chips – all generously covered in plenty of warm, creamy cheese, before being topped with crispy fried onions and a sprinkling of chopped chives – incredibly addictive.