I feel so bad for all those white folks who went down to Wingfield’s for the best burger in Dallas and had to wait in line because it is so popular. Also so, so sad for the white woman who didn’t get treated with enough subservience from black folks who should have been more grateful. Sorry, my head is spinning around.
As for myself, I just got back from 2615 S. Beckley Ave, where the staff couldn’t have been nicer or more hard-working in very cramped conditions. And where the customers waiting in line knew that the payoff would come with that first bite. Jump to my report.
I got there about 1:30 p.m., but the rush was still on in the tiny little joint right next to a tire company. I parked on a nearby street since the lot in front was full. Inside, there were 6 people in line, black and white, waiting for their orders, and I became number 7 after ordering a cheeseburger with fries, which came to $5 and change. The woman who took the order was utterly polite and businesslike and no “attitude” (good grief, it’s 2006!) of any kind.
To my left in line was a white guy from Las Vegas who had been here only two weeks but saw the story in D. On my right was a black guy named Ike, and we struck up a conversation after about 15 minutes. He had also learned of Wingfield’s through D and it was his first visit. We both agreed next time to do what the regulars seemed to be doing, calling in an order in advance. Highly recommended.
It took about 30 minutes to get my order, but that’s because Mr. Wingfield does it right. He uses a grill press for each patty while it’s cooking, then puts the buns on the griddle, too. Each is assembled like the enormous meal that it is, and that take some attention. You’d easily give one of the wildly overpriced chefs in this town 30 minutes and more for a comparable feast, if they could do it. Of course they might not be black, and in the Cliff. Sorry, head starting to spin again…
Bottom line: I had a great time, got to talk to some interesting folks, FM 107.5 playing easy jazz in the background. I think I’ve already put on 3 pounds and they’re airlifting in Lipitor as I type. On the other hand I might just get back there tomorrow. But I’ll call ahead.
Props to you, Mr. Wingfield, and staff. And to Nancy, for this great find.
