タケマシュラン
In the summer of 2023, a fruit gourmet burger specialty shop called "LITOR" opened its doors. While burgers with slices of pineapple have existed for over a century, this establishment seems to delve even deeper into the essence of fruit. It is located directly across from the "Naha Cultural Arts Theater," right next to the pizza place "BACAR," which I personally dislike. The interior boasts an urban feel with exposed concrete and offers various seating options such as counter seats, high-chair tables, and café-style tables, making it versatile for use from lunchtime to evening.
Before diving into the burgers, I opted for a salad priced at 550 yen, thinking it would be a small side dish. To my surprise, it had substantial volume, featuring plenty of ingredients like grilled bacon. It's a dish that anyone with a hearty appetite should definitely order.
I tried the signature "Banana Bacon Burger" priced at 1,850 yen, one of the priciest burgers you'll find in Okinawa. Wow, this burger is delicious! Beyond the typical tasty elements like the bun and patty, the caramelized bananas, aromatic bacon, and the depth added by peanut butter create a flavor profile reminiscent of French cuisine.
Next, I sampled the "Pineapple Burger" for 1,800 yen. This isn't just a simple burger with a slice of pineapple; the dish artfully balances the tanginess of pineapple, mayonnaise, and mustard, making it a rarity to experience so many layers of acidity harmoniously. The crunchy texture of lotus root hidden within adds a clever touch.
Typically, burgers come with fries, and these were no exception. They looked delicious, and they truly were! They were prepared more like French fries served alongside a steak in French cuisine, making them among the best fries I've tasted at a burger joint worldwide.
Getting a bit carried away, I also ordered onion rings for 450 yen, which came in a generous portion—almost double what you'd get at a more pretentious burger place in Tokyo. I thought to myself, "If I can't finish them, I'll just take them home for tomorrow," but in the end, I ended up eating them all on the spot because they were that good.
Initially, I approached the idea of a "fruit gourmet burger" with skepticism, thinking it might be just a gimmick. However, this restaurant far exceeded my expectations, showcasing a very high level of culinary expertise that transcends the typical burger genre. Until now, I've favored places like "Munch's Burger Shack" and "Aldebaran," which prominently feature the power of meat, but I’ve realized that burgers like those at LITOR, which take a unique and unexpected approach, offer a whole new level of enjoyment. This place is truly one of a kind and has the quality to compete with any high-end establishment in Tokyo.
For a photo blog, click here: https://www.takemachelin.com/2024/02/litor.html