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So, grab a couple of extra napkins and practice how to hunch over the plate to avoid spills on the shirt and take a look at the lineup of Calgary’s best mom and pop burger shops.

Boogie’s Burgers:

Size isn’t everything, but the patties on a Boogie’s Burger is about the size of my outstretched hand, making them good and filling. The red sauce is tangy and the topping selection more than plentiful. I’m a standard girl, so I opt for bacon and cheese; more adventurous eaters — or those who like to combine their comfort foods — should take note of the deep-fried mac n’ cheese option.

Calgary Herald

Dragon’s Lair Burger Co.:

Hidden away in the food court of Westbrook Mall, this little spot boasts a big menu. The patty is fresh and the toppings plentiful, including red onions and mushrooms sautéed to order — a nice touch — and the house-made secret Dragon Sauce. The patty is juicy and nicely flavoured and all held together by a soft bun. A burger from Dragon’s Lair is well worth the hunt.

Calgary Herald

Flipp’n Burgers:

Served up in the classic basket with checkered paper in a spot that nods to the nostalgia of yesteryear burger joints, this is the burger that knows where it came from. The fresh beef patty had good flavour and was requisitely juicy — to the point where extra napkins were needed. This Kensington spot also boasts lots of intriguing toppings, especially when it comes to sauces (teriyaki, basil pesto aioli, hummus and so much more).

Photo by Gwendolyn Richards / Calgary Herald

Naina’s Kitchen:

Why put toppings on the burger when you can put them in the burger? At Naina’s, any of the myriad toppings, from the typical (bacon, onions and cheese) to the more unconventional (pulled pork, apples — in the signature Nainalicious Burger) get jammed into the 1/2-lb stuffed burger that definitely requires a number of napkins. (Those who wish to combine two great food cravings may want to consider ordering the Poutine Burger.) The patty itself is nicely flavoured and the bun, somehow, manages to keep everything mostly contained. Though this is the type of burger that’s best not to put down.

Photo by Gwendolyn Richards / Calgary Herald

The winner for the category: Naina’s Kitchen.

Think I’ve certainly got great taste or want to revoke my burger-lover card? Have your say by voting for your favourite mom and pop burger shop. Your picks will be revealed for this category, as well as an overall best burger in Calgary.

Photo by Colleen De Neve / Calgary Herald

grichards@calgaryherald.com

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