While searching for the best burgers in Orange County we kept hearing about a place called Peter’s Gourmade Grill in Tustin. With plenty of positive reviews and press from OC Weekly and the Orange County Register (named one of O.C.’s 25 best restaurants of 2010) this place was on our radar and it was time for us to check it out.

We had some fun trying to come up with a title for this post but “Delicious Gourmade Burgers and Gas” or “Get Gas with Peter’s Burgers” didn’t seem very appropriate or appetizing for that matter – But relevant, yes. Peter’s Gourmade Burgers is located in the Valero Gas Station on E. McFadden Ave. and Village way off the 55 freeway. Given its unassuming and unique location (in a gas station) it’s easy to overlook. The establishment even had the same color scheme as Valero’s Gas Station (aqua and yellow). And seriously, who would think gourmet burgers would be served out of a gas station. The last gas station burger I had was left under a heat lamp for hours and looked like horsemeat with painted grill marks. Fortunately, Peter’s Gourmade Burgers are the real deal and simply amazing!

Upon arriving we parked in the back of the establishment (there are only a few spots available so parking can be tight). Seating is all outside and pretty minimal with just a few bar seats in front and one table with four chairs (but added to the uniqueness and hole-in-the-wall experience). Peter’s Gourmade Burgers does attract a crowd of patrons during peak hours and on weekends and the kitchen is quite small so there can be a wait. However, to-go ordering is an option as well as text ordering so you can order ahead (for no wait express pick-up) – problem solved. When we visited there was a pretty steady flow of customers and it was during non-peak hours on a Tuesday around 2pm (Tuesdays are generally slow restaurant days).

We ordered an ABC Burger ($5.75) and side of shoestring fries ($2.25). You can add to any burger order a side of shoestring fries and a drink ($2.25) or sweet potato fries and a drink ($3.50).

The ABC Burger was delicious! It came with an all-beef patty served on a potato bun with lettuce, onion, tomato, Famous Dave’s Pickle Chips, ketchup, mustard, mayo, bacon, fresh avocado and melted cheddar cheese. The spicy tongue-tingling pickle and soft potato bun added to the uniqueness and deliciousness of the burger. The ABC Burger came loaded with fixings, it was full of flavor, juicy, a bit messy and one of the best burgers in Orange County we’ve had.

The shoestring fries were also good. The fries came lightly seasoned, fresh, hot, and served with a side of ketchup to dip them in. The fries were a great addition and went well with the delicious burger.

Overall, we really enjoyed our experience at Peter’s Gourmade Burgers in Tustin. The gas station location was unique, memorable and added to the hole-in-the-wall atmosphere. The service was super friendly and it was nice to meet the owners Peter and Antoinette (both were very friendly, down-to-earth and very welcoming). If you’re in the Orange County area (low on fuel or craving a great burger) Peter’s Gourmade Grill in Tustin in the Valero Gas Station on E. McFadden Ave. and Village way off the 55 freeway is a must try! You can get an amazing burger without paying a gourmet price. Peter’s Gourmade Grill will not disappoint.