The Impossible Burger, available at Umami Burger, is the answer to a burger-loving vegetarian’s dreams. We had heard much about how the plant-based burger mimics meat, both in look and taste, and decided to see if it lived up to the hype.

The Umami Burger in Anaheim is located in a former garage in the historic packing district. There’s a large outdoor patio perfect for al fresco dining. Upon being seated, you’ll get a dish of complimentary pickled cucumber and beets, which make a nice accompaniment to a couple of beers.

With a name like Umami Burger, burgers dominate most of the menu, being split up into the larger category of beef and then the “don’t have a cow” options. There’s a handful of starters, from wings to brussel sprouts, and sides like onion rings, tater tots and fries, both sweet potato and potato.

If you like turkey burgers, Umami’s Greenbird Burger stacks it high with mashed avocado, green cheese, butter lettuce, sprouts, and green goddess dressing.

There’s a nice char to the meat, making it taste like a beef patty. The burger is a bit unwieldy, so you may want to eat it with a knife and fork, rather than risking the mess that will ensue if you pick it up with your hands.

More importantly, how was The Impossible Burger, the reason for our visit? When it arrived to our table, it certainly looked like a normal burger.

The burger had two patties topped with American cheese, caramelized onions, American cheese, miso-mustard, house spread, dill pickles, lettuce, tomato on a Portuguese bun.

The taste? Exactly like a beef burger, in both flavor and texture. The Impossible patties even “bleed” like a beef burger – which I find a little odd because vegetarians avoid eating animals so there’s no need for that effect.

Truth be told, I don’t think I would be able to tell the difference between a beef patty and an Impossible patty. My pesco-vegetarian husband declared it the best burger he’s had since he’s given up meat. As our waiter pointed out, the patties are cholesterol-free too, making it a less guilty treat. If you’re vegan or lactose-intolerant, ask them to hold the cheese.

I have to say, I was damn impressed. While I’m not a vegetarian, I think I would be tempted to partake in that Impossible Burger the next time we’re at an Umami Burger. While the Anaheim Packing District is a couple of miles away from Disneyland, Umami Burger’s got their own magic happening.

Location –  338 South Anaheim Boulevard, Anaheim 92805. Additional locations throughout California, Chicago, Las Vegas, New York and Japan.
Website – https://www.umamiburger.com
Kid-Friendly – Yes
Kid’s Menu – No
Vegetarian/Vegan Friendly – Yes
Gluten-Free Options – Yes