A LICENSE TO GRILL

Two years ago we set out on a mission to find the best burgers in the Cotswolds. We (myself and Simon, a burger "enthusiast" and actual doctor) are still on that mission and travel far and wide to try them. 

Last week, he mentioned a place in Tewkesbury going by the name of Double O's BBQ and sends me one half of the menu. The other part of the menu apparently "isn't worth looking at" as the burgers are too small. 

The first thing I notice about the three burgers on this half of the menu is that they have a James Bond theme. The 12oz Jaws Burger includes 4oz Steak Burger, 4oz Gloucester Old Spot Pattie and 4oz Kofta Pattie for just £8. The Tom Jones, named after the singer who sang the them for Thunderball and the man who suggested the combination of this burger to owner Clive Williams-Bond (Yes, Bond) and includes everything in the Jaws Burger as well as a 6oz Top Rump Steak, Bacon and Cheese. This is £12. You did read that correctly. 18oz of meat + bacon and cheese for just £12. What is this place? I actually ask Simon this question and he sends me a link to a Facebook page. After 5 minutes of scrolling I realise that this isn't a restaurant.

"So", I ask Simon. "This isn't a restaurant but a gazebo down by the river in Tewkesbury?" It is a gazebo just off the high street in Back of Avon down the river. It's actually a really nice setting, if not a little off the beaten track. It's a place that people seem to go to watch the world go buy while enjoying some fish and chips being watched by scores of gulls and pigeons.

I was reluctant. but agreed to give it a go. We agree a date and send the invite around to the other members of the "Cotswold Burger Club" (8 people on a twitter DM message). All but one can make it. 

The third burger is called "The Octopussy".. of course it is. It's an absolute monster and consists of 40 ounces of meat. In fact, nothing else can be cooked while one of these bad boys is on the grill as it uses the whole thing. There are two 4oz Steak Burgers, two 4oz Gloucester Old Spot Patties, two 4oz Kofta Patties and two 6oz Top Rump Steaks. This costs £25. None of us order it. 

Most of us go for The Tom Jones and it was good. Exceptionally good in fact. There are an abundance of sauces of which the chilli ones are homemade. The meat is all sourced within 2 miles, as is the bread which is from Drapers Bakery in the town.

This is far from being a gimmick. The food is outstanding and most definitely worth a visit. There are weekend specials too. "The Man with the Golden Bun" is a sirloin steak smothered in homemade cheese and peppercorn source in a golden brioche bun (these names don't make themselves up) with salad of your choice. 

They also let their costumers design their own combinations and if it fits the menu, then they will ket them name it. Now there's a challenge! 

www.facebook.com/licencedtogrill