The Juicy Lucy, a burger with a molten core of cheese nestled within its patty, is a culinary creation that has captivated burger enthusiasts for decades. Its gooey center and burst of flavor make it a truly unique and unforgettable eating experience. But where did this cheesy masterpiece originate? The answer, like the burger itself, is surprisingly complex and hotly contested, with two Minneapolis bars staking claim to its invention.
The Twin Claims: Matt’s Bar vs. the 5-8 Club
The battle for Juicy Lucy supremacy is a local rivalry that has simmered for generations. The two main contenders, Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club, are both Minneapolis institutions, each with a devoted following and a compelling narrative about the burger’s genesis.
Matt’s Bar: The “Original” Juicy Lucy?
Matt’s Bar, a no-frills establishment known for its no-nonsense atmosphere, asserts that it invented the Juicy Lucy back in the 1950s. According to their story, a customer walked into the bar requesting a burger with cheese inside, not on top. Matt, the owner, obliged, stuffing the cheese within the patty. Upon taking a bite, the customer exclaimed, “That’s one juicy Lucy!” and the name, and the burger, were born.
The simplicity of Matt’s claim is part of its appeal. They maintain that they were the first to conceive of and execute this now-iconic burger. They serve their Juicy Lucy with a single slice of American cheese nestled inside a perfectly cooked patty, topped only with pickles. No lettuce, no tomato, no fancy condiments – just the pure, unadulterated experience of molten cheese and juicy beef. Matt’s Bar maintains that they spell the name “Jucy” Lucy, without the “i,” to differentiate themselves from the competition.
The 5-8 Club: A Contender with a Different Spelling
The 5-8 Club, another Minneapolis mainstay, also claims to be the birthplace of the Juicy Lucy. Their story, while similar, has slight variations. They assert that they invented the burger in the 1950s as well, and that a customer named it after his girlfriend, Lucy.
Unlike Matt’s, the 5-8 Club spells the burger’s name “Juicy” Lucy. They offer a variety of cheeses for their Juicy Lucy, allowing customers to customize their molten experience. They also offer a slightly more extensive range of toppings, although they still maintain a relatively simple approach.
Dissecting the Evidence: Historical Records and Testimonials
Piecing together the true origin of the Juicy Lucy is a challenging task. Solid historical records are scarce, relying heavily on anecdotal evidence and the memories of those who were present during the burger’s alleged creation.
The Power of Word-of-Mouth: Eyewitness Accounts
Much of the evidence supporting each claim rests on the recollections of longtime patrons and employees. These stories, passed down through generations, paint vivid pictures of the early days of the Juicy Lucy, but they are often contradictory and difficult to verify.
Those who frequent Matt’s Bar swear by its authenticity, citing the bar’s long history, its simple approach, and the unwavering dedication to the original recipe. They often point to the “Jucy” spelling as proof of their originality.
Similarly, 5-8 Club loyalists argue that their version is the true original, pointing to their own long history and the fact that their burger is spelled “Juicy,” which many consider to be the more natural spelling.
The Role of Media: Reviews and Recognition
Over the years, the Juicy Lucy has garnered significant media attention, both locally and nationally. Food critics and travel writers have flocked to Minneapolis to sample this unique burger and weigh in on the debate over its origin.
While these reviews have undoubtedly helped to popularize the Juicy Lucy, they have also added to the confusion surrounding its creation. Different publications have often sided with different establishments, further fueling the rivalry. The national spotlight has intensified the debate, turning it into a point of local pride.
Beyond the Rivalry: The Enduring Appeal of the Juicy Lucy
Regardless of its precise origin, the Juicy Lucy has become a beloved culinary icon. Its unique construction, with the cheese safely tucked inside the patty, offers a distinct and satisfying eating experience.
The Science of Melted Cheese: The Key to Success
The key to a truly great Juicy Lucy lies in the perfect execution of the cheese melting process. The cheese must be heated to the point where it is completely molten, but without burning the patty. This requires careful attention to temperature and timing.
The choice of cheese is also crucial. American cheese is the traditional choice, known for its creamy texture and ability to melt smoothly. However, other cheeses, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or even bleu cheese, can be used to create different flavor profiles.
The Art of the Patty: Building a Solid Foundation
The patty itself is just as important as the cheese. It must be made from high-quality ground beef and seasoned appropriately. The patty should be thick enough to contain the molten cheese without bursting, but not so thick that it becomes difficult to eat.
The cooking method is also critical. The patty should be cooked to medium-rare or medium, ensuring that it remains juicy and flavorful. A cast-iron skillet or a flattop grill are often preferred for achieving the perfect sear.
A Burger Mystery That May Never Be Solved
The debate over the Juicy Lucy’s origin may never be definitively settled. Both Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club have compelling claims and loyal followings. Ultimately, the choice of which burger is “better” is a matter of personal preference.
What is undeniable is that the Juicy Lucy is a culinary innovation that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of burger lovers everywhere. Its molten cheese core and juicy patty offer a unique and satisfying experience that is unlike any other burger.
Whether you prefer the “Jucy” Lucy from Matt’s Bar or the “Juicy” Lucy from the 5-8 Club, one thing is certain: this Minneapolis creation is a must-try for any burger enthusiast. The rivalry only adds to the mystique and allure of this cheesy masterpiece.
What exactly is a Juicy Lucy burger?
The Juicy Lucy, often spelled “Juicy Lucy,” is a cheeseburger variation distinguished by having cheese inside the meat patty rather than on top. This ingenious construction results in a molten core of cheese erupting upon the first bite, offering a significantly more intensely cheesy and satisfying experience than a traditionally topped cheeseburger. It’s more than just melted cheese; it’s an integral part of the burger’s core.
Unlike a standard cheeseburger where the cheese melts on the surface and potentially drips off, the Juicy Lucy’s cheese is completely enveloped and superheated during cooking. This allows the cheese to achieve a molten, liquid state, creating a burst of flavor and texture when the patty is cut open. This unique presentation is what sets the Juicy Lucy apart and fuels the ongoing debate over its origins.
Who claims to have invented the Juicy Lucy burger?
Two bars in South Minneapolis, Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club, both fiercely claim to be the originator of the Juicy Lucy. Matt’s Bar asserts that the burger was invented in 1954 when a customer requested a burger with cheese inside, and the result was deemed so delicious that he exclaimed, “That’s one juicy Lucy!” This version emphasizes a spontaneous invention based on a customer’s request.
The 5-8 Club, on the other hand, claims their Juicy Lucy was created earlier, sometime in the 1950s, though they don’t have a specific date or anecdote like Matt’s Bar. Their story highlights the burger as a deliberate creation, part of their ongoing culinary experimentation, rather than a chance occurrence. The lack of definitive historical records makes definitively proving either claim impossible.
What is the main difference between the Juicy Lucy at Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club?
The primary difference, aside from the claims of origin, lies in the cheese used and, to some extent, the overall presentation. Matt’s Bar typically uses American cheese, which melts easily and creates a very fluid core. They are also known for serving the burger relatively simply, letting the cheese and beef flavors speak for themselves.
The 5-8 Club often uses a blend of cheeses, sometimes including American cheese but also incorporating cheddar or other varieties. This can result in a slightly different texture and flavor profile. They are also known for offering a wider range of toppings and variations on the Juicy Lucy concept, whereas Matt’s Bar prides itself on the original simplicity.
Is there any definitive proof of who invented the Juicy Lucy?
Unfortunately, no definitive proof exists to unequivocally declare either Matt’s Bar or the 5-8 Club as the true inventor of the Juicy Lucy. Both establishments have loyal patrons and compelling, though unverifiable, stories. Historical records from the 1950s are scarce and don’t provide concrete evidence either way.
The debate essentially boils down to anecdotal evidence and local tradition. Both bars have built their reputations on the Juicy Lucy, and the lack of concrete proof has only fueled the rivalry and made the burger a beloved local legend in Minneapolis. The ambiguity likely contributes to the burger’s enduring popularity.
Why is the Juicy Lucy so controversial?
The controversy surrounding the Juicy Lucy stems primarily from the fierce competition between Matt’s Bar and the 5-8 Club to be recognized as the originator. The burger has become a significant part of Minneapolis’ culinary identity, and the claim of invention carries considerable prestige and economic value.
The lack of clear historical evidence further intensifies the debate. With no irrefutable documents or eyewitness accounts, both bars maintain their claim, leading to ongoing arguments and even heated discussions among burger enthusiasts. The passionate rivalry only adds to the burger’s mystique and appeal.
What are the potential dangers of eating a Juicy Lucy?
The primary danger associated with eating a Juicy Lucy is the risk of burning your mouth from the molten cheese inside. Because the cheese is completely enclosed within the patty, it reaches extremely high temperatures during cooking and remains hot for an extended period.
It is crucial to exercise caution when taking the first bite. Many experienced Juicy Lucy eaters recommend letting the burger sit for a minute or two after being served to allow the cheese to cool slightly. A small, cautious bite is always advisable to avoid painful burns.
Beyond Minneapolis, where can I find a Juicy Lucy?
While the Juicy Lucy is most closely associated with Minneapolis, its popularity has spread beyond the city limits. Many restaurants and bars across the United States, and even internationally, now offer their own versions of the cheese-filled burger.
You can often find Juicy Lucys on the menus of restaurants specializing in gourmet burgers or those with a focus on regional American cuisine. Searching online for “Juicy Lucy” followed by your location is a good starting point. Additionally, some chain restaurants have occasionally featured a Juicy Lucy-inspired burger as a limited-time offer.