GREENWICH VILLAGE — After much anticipation by food-frenzied New Yorkers, the beloved California burger chain Umami Burger opened its first New York location Monday, serving specialty patties on Sixth Avenue.
Burger enthusiasts formed a 15-person line outside the 432 Sixth Ave. burger joint at 11:30 a.m.
Village resident Frank Leone, 37, said he was willing to wait in line for lunch before noon to see if the burgers served in the chic, two-floor space lived up to the hype.
"I'm curious about the perfectionism and the science behind the burger," the personal trainer said.
Umami Burger is dedicated to the savory "fifth taste" called umami, which Japanese chemist Kikunae Ikeda named in 1908. A portrait of him hangs in the Greenwich Village restaurant.
Publishing executive Luke Parker said he was willing to wait because he heard gushing reviews of the burgers' "special flavor."
"My LA friends have been encouraging me to try it," said Parker, 35, from Montclair, N.J.
The signature Umami Burger ($12) is served medium rare and topped with shiitake mushrooms, caramelized onions, toasted tomato, a parmesan crisp and special umami ketchup.
Four other classic burgers are on the menu, including a truffle burger with truffle cheese, truffle glaze and roasted garlic aioli ($12.50).
A tuna burger, turkey burger and veggie burger made with charred corn and black beans are also available.
The burger joint will be open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m and Friday through Sunday 11 a.m. to midnight.
Other Umami Burger locations are planned for a food court in Battery Park City and 156 N. Fourth St. in Williamsburg.