The Case of the Pretzel Burger {Wendy’s}

Pretzel Bacon Cheeseburger

Wendy’s Pretzel Bacon Cheeseburger. Really? A pretzel bun? Once again, another franchise marketing ploy that has worked on me… but this time it was Husband’s idea. I could have done without it, but he “had to have it.” Big Franchise Marketing Departments: 2, The Culinary Newbie: -2.

Wendy’s boasts, “A delicious new twist on our classic hot n juicy cheeseburger with a sweet & smoky honey mustard sauce, melted cheddar cheese and applewood smoked bacon all on a warm, soft pretzel bun. Now a specially crafted cheeseburger is closer than you think.”

They delivered.

The pretzel bun was just like a soft pretzel should be, warm, toasty, and delightfully smooshy. Yes, smooshy. You try  it and tell me it’s anything but smooshy. I was pleasantly pleased with the consistency. It reminded me of baseball games, carnivals, and summer nights spent on the tilt-o-whirl of my childhood.

If you put bacon on anything, you have my vote. Make it smoked bacon and you have my undying devotion. Wendy’s bacon was deliciously crisp and juicy. Like Baby Bear’s bed, this bacon was just right. The purple onions, bright red tomato slices, and romaine leaves topping the burger added a nice fresh taste. The cheddar cheese was melted oh, so yummyliciously.

Make sure to check the ratio of sauce to burger! You’ll thank me!

Next time I get the pretzel bacon cheeseburger, I’ll make sure to check the “sweet and smoky honey mustard sauce” before I start eating, though. My first bite was perfect; it was lathered in the perfect amount of sauce. The rest of the burger was sadly lacking the tangy sweetness. If you get it, lift the bun and check before you start in.

Bottom line: this was a frightfully good burger. Paired with a frosty coke and salty fries, it was a delicious weeknight dinner. Husband and I approve.

So, yes. I love gourmet meals, Mom and Pop bistros, and four star restaurants like the rest of you. I prefer them. But sometimes, every once in a while, a franchise will tempt me with their oh-so-easy drive thru meals. Wendy’s is doing something right.