CaliBurger Malaysia at Avenue K: Review

Commentators have often likened the three-year-old CaliBurger brand to California’s pioneering In-N-Out Burger, pointing to stark similarities in their menus. We’ll probably never see In-N-Out in KL, but its upstart rival unveiled a Malaysian outpost in Avenue K this month, complementing Asia’s other SoCal-spirited CaliBurger branches in Shanghai, Hong Kong & Manila.

CaliBurger’s Selection is Peerlessly Compact

CaliBurger’s selection is peerlessly compact; even the most indecisive customer won’t take long to order. Only two beef burgers are available – identical, except that the Cali Cheeseburger comprises a single patty, while the Cali Double (RM19.99) features two patties. Freshly assembled to order (expect a 10-minute wait), it tastes like a respectable cheeseburger, with reasonably punchy flavours. The bun seems way too thick though – the bread-to-meat ratio is more than what would work best.

Chipotle BBQ Chicken Burger

We’d probably skip the Chipotle BBQ Chicken Burger (RM11.99) – the meat is lean & bland, relying on the sauce for spicy-tangy dynamics that won’t leave a lingering impression. The sides also prove hit-or-miss – the onion rings (RM6.99) won’t provide cause for complaints, but the ‘Wild Fries’ (RM7.99) turn up smothered in a combo of a cloying sauce, melted cheese & grilled sweet onions. Milkshakes (RM13.99) come in flavours like butterscotch, bubble gum, blueberry or coffee – the butterscotch was OK; not too sugary, though there wasn’t much depth to the flavour. Service is fine – friendly & efficient.