101 new NYC restaurants

Bill's Bar & Burger

In a city where the $26 burger is not only considered acceptable, but a cheap eat, there is now a mighty $5.50 version ready to jump into the ring. The big-brained chefs at Meatpacking District's Bill's Bar and Burger sampled over 20 blends of Pat LaFrieda beef before establishing perfection. According to BR Guest corporate exec chef Brett Reichler, "We went with a simple philosophy—that a burger should be griddled, cooked perfectly and on a simple bun."  And he plans for the public to accept this doctrine: The 70-seat bar in the former Hog Pit location can knock out "between 1,000 and 2,000" burgers a day, if the demand calls for it. In other words, they're ready for the masses! Four additional burger varieties are available, including caramelized onions topping a patty on an English muffin and turkey burger with aged provolone and pickled tomatoes. Boneless chicken wings, chili and grilled Hatfield hot dogs will work well for late night. Five specialty shakes (including Oreo, peanut butter banana, coffee and berry; $7) can be boozed up, if your night is just beginning.

Bill's Bar & Burger
22 Ninth Ave. at W. 13th St.
212-414-3003