Slater’s 50/50, founded in Anaheim Hills in 2009, is famous for its fascination with swine. And now the Southern Californian mini-chain has found its way to a strip mall at the corner of Silverado Ranch and Bermuda. With a multitude of choices, ordering can be somewhat overwhelming. So here are some suggestions.
Given the menu’s pork-emphasis, you might feel obligated to try the Pork-a-Palooza flight ($17). Don’t. I mean, it’s a fun combination—straight bacon,a more intriguing crispy pork belly swimming in a jalapeño-bacon jam, a tasty salted caramel bacon kettle corn and more—but it’s just a wee bit over the top. Instead, order Slater’s vampire dip ($12) which we initially dismissed as a typical artichoke dip. It’s not. Described rather demurely relative to the other dishes, the garlic-laden cheese in a bread bowl should not be overlooked; it alone is worth the visit to Slater’s. Think of the best cheese fondue you’ve ever had, and you’ve got an idea.
Of course, Slater’s is best known for its burgers, in particular, mixed bacon/beef patties in the eponymous 50/50 ratio. But these are not cooked any less than medium, resulting in a drier burger than I’d prefer. Instead, I suggest the straight Angus patty and specifically the surprisingly reserved PB & Jellousy ($14). The natural peanut butter avoids unnecessary sweetness, as does the strawberry jelly. Unfortunately, medium appears to be the kitchen’s default, as this too arrived a tad too dry, a mortal sin for a burger joint.
Other burgers offer a litany of toppings, from bacon American cheese, bacon island dressing and a sunny side egg on the B’B’B’ Bacon ($15) to melted cheddar, bacon chili cheese and potato chips on the Bacon Chili Crunch ($14). And though it’s not indicated on the menu, apparently you can also assemble your own—you just have to ask.
Slater’s beer selection isn’t groundbreaking, but at 50 taps it is expansive, and does a good job highlighting both local breweries and less-common microbrews from elsewhere. As with the food menu, there’s a whole lot to choose from.
Slater’s 50/50 467 E. Silverado Ranch Blvd. #100, 702-766-5050. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m.- midnight; Saturday, 9 a.m.-midnight; Sunday, 9 a.m.-10 p.m.
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