In a Pikel (@inapikel) is a burger van in Canary Wharf London specialising in smash burgers. One thing I know is I’ve never been disappointed with burger van burgers, so I was optimistic about this one. Based in the swanky area of Canary Wharf, it’s a great and a much needed addition to the area. But can they deliver in terms of quality and taste? Spoiler alert: YES they can! Read on for more.
Read more about them here.
The Menu
Their menu is essentially made up of smash burgers, buttermilk chicken burgers and loaded fries. They specialise and probably their signature items are the smash burgers. High quality smashed beef patties in-between beautiful buns, they definitely know what they’re doing. They’ve got loaded fries (both beef and chicken), which are great alternative filing meal, if you’re not feeling a burger. They also do hot dogs as for those that fancy it. And skin on fries… well that’s the only and best way to have fries isn’t it? Not even a debate. Their drinks selection are ethical too (if you know you know). They also pride themselves in having bold flavours and a unique pickle-infused experience with your burgers (therefore the name). So, whatever you choose you know you’re in for a good and delicious time!
Smash Burgers
For their smash burgers they use 28 day dry aged, grass fed and 100% beef smashed patties. So, you know you’re getting high quality here. We ordered the original and after our first bite we were in a bit of Pikel… we knew we were onto a smash burger that is going to compete as being the best in the capital. The taste is buttery, cheesy with the right amount of pickle (some places over do it). It’s got that creamy taste and texture while having the slight bite to it due to the crunch. Just how smash burgers should be. You can also switch it up and get a cheesy version of this or a spicy version if you’re up for it!
Chicken burgers
They’ve got a few interesting chicken burger options including the Korean chicken burger and the popular hot honey chicken burger. But we opted for the spicy dipped chicken burger as we’re big fans of the Manchester burgers. We weren’t expecting too much from this as it’s all about the smash burgers, but boy were we impressed. It’s not like the Manchester ones, but it delivers in its own way. Flavourful, crunchy, slightly tangy and got a nice spice kick to it too. Something to make you go ooh but not break a sweat (if you’re used to spice). I hate it when the spice is overpowering and it takes over from the experience and becomes no longer pleasurable. This maintains the pleasurable experience while providing a nice kick. Loved it! And would highly recommend.
The location
Canary Wharf is a swanky part of London. Towers, tall buildings, office building and water! A great area to be located in and great area for a nice stroll too. Not located far from the underground too making it very convenient to visit. They’ve chosen the perfect location in all honesty as they can attract tourists, outsiders and the local office folk. Genius!
The service
I cannot praise them enough. We were greeted by the lovely lovely owner, who not only looked after us, but is still in touch with us to this day. His hospitality and welcoming nature makes you feel at home and part of the family instantly. His staff, likewise, a pleasure to deal with. Very humble, grounded and efficient.
In fact, we’re giving this spot our full recommendation. Both burgers were impressive and we’d definitely get again. The skin on fries always feel a little extra special. A definite must visit whether you’re in the area or you’re not. It’s worth IT!
Getting there
Nearest station: South Quay Station
Nearest mosque: Al Aqsa Masjid, Cubitt Town (not sure if they have a female section)
Parking: Nearby roads like Aste St are weekends and evenings free.
Google Maps link
