Despite increasing demand for their product, DA’Burger owners James and Wendy D’Ath eschewed the franchise approach early on in favour of building the New Farm spot into a well-oiled machine. Only recently did the duo become comfortable enough to cast an eye towards expansion, doing so with a desire to build from scratch once more. The opportunity in Ascot’s newly completed Racecourse Village offered the ideal blank canvas to work on, and a chance to create a new community-oriented hub for burger lovers and casual diners alike. DA’Burger’s new spot is larger than its New Farm sibling, offering more kitchen and bar space, as well as ample exterior dining. Where New Farm is imbued with a grungy feel, Ascot is a little bit more refined – boasting splashes of colour with a sizeable mural and DA’Burger’s iconic signature wall. Most importantly, James and Wendy have aimed to transfer DA’Burger’s culture and service model across to the new location, instilling a warm and welcoming atmosphere supported by a menu crafted from locally sourced goods.
DA’Burger’s new Ascot location has brought its array of burgers across from New Farm, stuffing buns with the likes of flame-grilled beef patties, spice-rubbed grilled chicken, seasoned barramundi, grilled haloumi, soy bean patties and Australian lamb. Since opening in New Farm, the biggest area of customer demand has been for more chicken and more beer. DA’Burger Ascot is delivering on both counts, with the crew hiring a test kitchen to hone a range of recipes for chicken wings – settling on a smoking and saucing technique that does away with the heavy grease of deep-frying. Diners can snack on bowls of house-smoked wings coated in Thai-style citrus sauce, miso, honey and rice wine, barbecue and ginger, or a simple seasoning of Himalayan pink salt and herbs. More than 35 craft beers are available at Ascot, with new taps installed to pour Green Beacon Brewing and rotating brews. A spiked drinks selection is also available, with James’ kaffir lime and lemongrass-infused Bloody Mary sure to set sore heads straight.
DA’Burger Ascot is now open at Racecourse Village. Look to the Stumble Guide for opening hours and contact details.
