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"I serve most of my burgers plain unless otherwise requested," Stephen Chrisomalis said.
He said specialty burgers -- like double bacon burgers, mac and cheese burgers and fried egg burgers -- are getting popular. He serves some specialty items, but that's not what his place is about.
"You don't need all that stuff if you have a good product."
Steve's has risen in popularity since it opened six years ago.
Chrisomalis said some have driven two hours to try his burgers, but most customers come from Garfield, Elmwood Park, Saddle Brook, Lodi, Hackensack and Clifton.
The spot is frequented by Instagram sensation Matt Savage, a HackensackUMC nurse.
Originally, the burger joint served three things: cheeseburgers, hot dogs and french fries.
There are more items now, but Chrisomalis' dedication to using fresh ingredients keeps the menu short.
"People come up with enough of their own crazy ideas for what to put on burgers," Chrisomalis said.
But he still takes the time to experiment with his own craft.
For the past few weeks, Steve's has been offering a pulled pork burger on Tuesdays and corned beef on Thursdays.
For now, the items are not a part of the usual weekly menu. Chrisomalis said ensuring all ingredients are freshly made every day is what prevents him from adding too many things to the menu.
The once-a-week items also create a sense of eventfulness.
"It’s good to have something once a week," he said, "make people wait for you."
Steve's is located off of 506 US-46, Garfield, NJ 07026.
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