Hamburger have come a long way from their humble beginnings to become a global gastronomic icon. Their history is filled with fascinating anecdotes, culinary innovations, and impressive records.

In this post, we’ll explore the first 6 of 12 surprises that will make you appreciate this popular dish even more. From its roots in the Middle Ages to its arrival in the United States, every detail reveals a unique step in the evolution of the burger.

HAMBURGER CURIOSITIES

1. Multiple Nationalities Its history dates back to the 13th century, when Mongols led by Genghis Khan consumed raw meat flattened under their saddles—a precursor to steak tartare. This practice was adopted by Russian and German merchants, especially in the port city of Hamburg. There, the “Hamburg steak” (seasoned and cooked ground meat) became popular. It was German immigrants in the 19th century who brought this tradition to the United States, popularizing it at state fairs across the country.

2. A Street Stall and a Danish Immigrant On May 28, 1900, Louis Lassen, a Danish immigrant in New Haven, Connecticut, served what is considered one of the first modern hamburgers. This claim even has the “seal of approval” from the Library of Congress, which officially recognized his shop as the home of the first hamburger in U.S. history. To this day, the Lassen family (now in its fourth generation) still sells burgers at their small restaurant near Yale University—served exactly like Louis did: between two slices of white toast with only tomato, onion, and cheese. No sauces allowed!

3. Its Own International Celebration Every May 28th, the world celebrates International Burger Day. While some say the date honors Louis Lassen’s first sale, others believe it’s a brilliant marketing invention. Regardless of its origin, restaurants worldwide use this day to offer special promotions and celebrate the burger’s cultural and culinary impact.

4. Standardization: White Castle The burger was standardized on September 13, 1921, with the opening of the first White Castle in Wichita, Kansas. Founder Walter A. Anderson pioneered the use of hygienic practices—like white porcelain interiors and stainless steel—to win over a public that was skeptical of ground meat at the time. Anderson is also credited with inventing the modern hamburger bun and designing the efficient kitchen chain that paved the way for fast-food franchises.

5. From BBQ to Burgers In 1940, brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald opened “McDonald’s Bar-B-Q” in California. However, in 1948, they pivoted to the “Speedee Service System,” focusing on efficiency and a simplified menu of burgers, fries, and shakes. In 1954, Ray Kroc saw the potential, partnered with the brothers, and turned a small BBQ stand into a global empire.

6. The Name Matters: The Big Mac The world’s most famous burger wasn’t always called the Big Mac. It went through two unsuccessful names in the 1960s:

• The Aristocrat: Considered too sophisticated and elitist for fast food.

• The Blue Ribbon Burger: Too formal and failed to resonate with the base.

  It was Esther Glickstein Rose, a young secretary at the corporate office, who proposed the name “Big Mac.” It was simple, catchy, and became an instant success.

TASTE THE HISTORY AT PANNA

Hamburgers have traveled a long road to become a global icon. If this list has worked up your appetite, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a delicious burger at PANNA New Food Latino in Florida. We offer exquisite versions made with fresh ingredients and that unique touch only we can provide.

We look forward to celebrating the love for great food with you!

Stay tuned for our next post, where we will explore 6 more fascinating facts about the hamburger.