[dropcap size=big]T[/dropcap]his little beer bar changed the burger game. And that’s a big deal in L.A. The tavern had existed quietly for years before Sang Yoon bought it in 2000 and installed a teeny kitchen in the back. And there, a burger was created. Inspired by French onion soup, Yoon stacked bacon-y caramelized onions, arugula, gruyere, blue cheese and a charbroiled patty on a garlic-butter toasted oval bun. This burger’s invention came around right before we all started throwing the word “gastropub” around, and they are forever linked when Angelenos think about bars that serve truly excellent food. There’s another, bigger Father’s Office location now, but both have the same rule: no substitutions, no additions. Not even ketchup, no matter how much you beg. It’s a signature FO move, but it’s something that came from the complete lack of shelf space at the original. Besides, you can get ketchup anywhere else.
1018 Montana Ave., Santa Monica
(310) 736-2224
http://fathersoffice.com/
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