Cook’s Burger Bar: A New Retro Haven Coming to Midtown Row

As a die-hard fan of the culinary brilliance behind The Amber Ox, Precarious Beer Project, and The Bake Shop, I’m thrilled to spread the word about the latest gem set to light up Williamsburg’s dining scene – Cook’s Burger Bar. Opening its doors on April 20th at Midtown Row, this new venture promises to blend old-school charm with contemporary flavors, right in the heart of our beloved town.

Situated at 1246 Richmond Rd., Suite A – the space that once housed Matchsticks BBQ Co. – Cook’s is the brainchild of Against the Grain Restaurants (ATG) co-founders Andrew Voss and Chris Cook. This marks ATG’s exciting expansion beyond its Colonial Williamsburg roots, offering a nostalgic tribute with a modern twist. Imagine stepping into an era of wood paneling, classic diner hues of teal, mustard, and brick red, all accentuated by the gleam of chrome-rimmed tables and the cozy glow of stained glass pendants. It’s a setting that Voss describes as “an homage to classic mid-century Midwestern restaurants and hospitality,” crafted to whisk you away to the warmth of Grandma’s house.

The menu at Cook’s is a loving nod to diner classics, focusing on simplicity and quality without a hint of pretense. Picture sizzling burgers and crispy fries taking center stage, complemented by a selection of mid-century snacks and hearty “Fork & Knife” dishes that evoke a sense of home. But it doesn’t stop there. ATG’s commitment to local, quality ingredients shines through in every bite, featuring regional Certified Angus beef, fresh produce from Dayspring Farm and ATG’s own Reckon Acres, ensuring a taste of the local terroir in every bite.

And what’s a burger bar without a stellar drink lineup? Cook’s doesn’t disappoint, offering an array of ready-to-drink canned beverages, exclusive Cook’s Lite and Cook’s Dark lagers brewed by Precarious Beer, and inventive draft cocktails. The ambiance is further enriched by music, with throwback playlists and vinyl nights setting the tone for unforgettable evenings.

I’m not the only one excited about this. Hannah Warner from Broad Street Realty shares our enthusiasm, highlighting the anticipation for ATG’s innovative concept in Midtown Row. With Cook’s opening, we’re not just gaining a new dining spot; we’re welcoming a vibrant addition to Williamsburg’s community fabric.

So, mark your calendars for April 20th and join me in celebrating the grand opening of Cook’s Burger Bar. It promises to be a culinary journey that pays tribute to the past while embracing the flavors and community spirit of today. Don’t forget to follow Cook’s on Instagram, Facebook, and their website for the latest updates, including opening weekend specials. Here’s to many delicious meals and memories at Cook’s!

For the full story behind ATG’s journey and their dedication to connecting our community through exceptional food and drink, head over to atgrestaurants.com.

Following the Grand Opening on April 20, Cook’s will be open 7 days a week for lunch, dinner and late night cravings, as well as weekend brunch. Cook’s will be home to 85 seats, including 30 on the front patio. For the latest, including opening weekend specials and full hours of operation, follow along on Instagram and Facebook @cooksburger and on cooksburger.com.