I’m happy to report that Henry Public is now a contender in the Brooklyn Burger War! At last! I have had a deep and lasting crush on this place since it opened a few years ago. Henry Public is in every detail a throwback to that wonderful post-depression period of prosperity and optimism ushered in by FDR- who we all have to thank for repealing the Prohibition Act and saving the country from drowning in bathtub gin. His noble portrait hangs at one end of the bar. Only on two occasions has my loyalty to Henry Public wavered- both times I had ordered the burger. Imagine my disappointment. I held on with the hope that one day they would take their burger as seriously as they take their drinks- ah yes, and that splendid turkey leg sandwich. Unwilling to admit any impediment in what is otherwise a marriage of true minds- I made one final attempt. TYL! What had once been an entirely unremarkable hamburger sandwich, had been transformed into a well seasoned, perfectly cooked, beefy delight. Hugging the burger on all sides was a generous slice of cheddar and to this I added the pickles because they were just right- not overly tangy and with a subtle snap. The lightly toasted bun endured a sloppy coating of mayo and mustard and held up to the very last bite. Everything came together beautifully. Now if they can only do it again…