 Although I first heard about Bomber Burger in Wichita, Kansas years ago, the limited hours kept me from trying it out until the summer of 2009. But I will find a way to make sure that it doesn't take that long before my next visit. Bomber Burger first opened in 1951, and it has been in the Rickard family since 1985. Chris Rickard, who presently runs it, took over in 1997 following the deat of his father, Paul Rickard. Bomber Burger has a counter with five booths and four small, two person tables. The tables are round and partially cut away so they can be squeezed closer to the wall. The (original) grill and fryer are 5 feet behind the counter and I took a seat where I could watch the meals being prepared. Other than beverages, the only items on the menu are fresh cut French fries and a variety of large (2/3 pound) Kansas angus beef hamburgers and double burgers. Watching the food preparation, the first thing that I noticed was how often Chris Rickard cleaned his hands. Every time he touched anything other than the food and utensils, he would immediately wash his hands. Often within a minute of the last time. Later in the meal, when Chris and I got to talking, I learned that his constantly washing his hands instead of wearing gloves has been a source of confrontation with state health authorities. He told an interesting story which ended with the state agreeing that he might be right, but that it violated their rules and he was fined $1,000. Which he paid in dimes. My burger was grilled slowly, so it stayed very moist. It was cooked with a little garlic powder and was the best hamburger I have had in Wichita. The fries were every bit as good. The food at Bomber Burger is served with an attitude. I enjoyed Chris' stories so much that I was an hour down the road before I realized I forgot to leave a tip.
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