On Tuesdays through Thursdays at t’afia (3701 Travis, 713-524-6922), there’s a special surprise for customers who try the mini b3r ranch burgers (from the Bradley 3 Ranch in Memphis, Texas), provided they order and consume them at the bar and purchase an alcoholic beverage — they’re free, along with other morsels on the “while lounging” menu. But that isn’t the only reason to try these little mouthfuls; they’re so good, they’re definitely worth the $6 price tag if you want them at your table. The patties, which are more the size and shape of meatballs, sit inside a homemade roll covered with a smoky barbecue mayo. There are three to an order. Two bites, and each one disappears (that’s if you’re in genteel company; otherwise, one’s all it takes).
This article appears in Mar 29 – Apr 4, 2007.