Savoring History: The Unique Legacy of Connecticut’s Steamed Cheeseburger
If you find yourself in Meriden, Connecticut, you have to stop by Ted’s, a small but legendary spot that has been serving up “magic” for 66 years. Known as the home of the first steamed burger in the United States since 1959, Ted’s offers a unique culinary experience that mixes local history with a healthy twist.
The Art of the Steamed Burger
What exactly makes a steamed cheeseburger different? Unlike traditional grilled patties, these burgers are placed in a special container and steamed, allowing the fat and grease to run off the meat. The cheese is handled with equal care, melted separately in its own steel container before being joined with the meat. This method not only creates a unique texture but is also considered a healthier alternative to standard frying because the grease is removed during the cooking process. In its early days, Ted’s stayed open until 4:00 AM to serve the many factory workers who populated Meriden and central Connecticut.
A Rich History of Burgers in Connecticut
While there is some debate about the origins of the steamed burger—some point to Jack’s Lunch in Middletown in the 1930s—it was Ted’s that truly made the style famous. Research into the history of Jack’s Lunch suggests they may have actually been steaming ham steaks rather than traditional hamburger patties.
Connecticut’s broader burger pedigree is incredibly deep:
- Louis’ Lunch in New Haven is credited with serving the first hamburger sandwich in American history back in 1895.
- In the 1950s, the Berlin Turnpike in Connecticut was home to the second most famous McDonald’s in the country, trailing only the original location in California.
The local love for the steamed burger is so intense that the Hartford Yard Goats baseball team once changed their name to the “Hartford Steamed Burgers” and wore special uniforms for a one-day promotion. The restaurant has also been featured on various TV shows, including Man v. Food, and is frequently cited by magazines as having the best burger in the state.
Leadership Lesson: The Blue Ocean Strategy
Beyond the food, Ted’s serves as a masterclass in business and leadership strategy. They utilized what is known as a Blue Ocean Strategy. In a “Red Ocean Strategy,” a business tries to do what everyone else is doing but slightly better or cheaper, which is often a difficult game to win. Ted’s went “Blue” by offering something entirely unique—steaming—which was a novelty that nobody else was doing.
The leadership takeaway is the value of going against the grain. By carving out a specific niche and offering something distinct, Ted’s has maintained its popularity and relevance for over six decades.
Visit for Yourself
Whether you are interested in historical landmarks, leadership lessons, or just a great meal, Meriden has plenty to offer. If you want to experience a true Connecticut staple, head down to Ted’s and see why people have been flocking to this “tiny little place” for over half a century.
Uncovering History. Inspiring Leadership. The Travel in Time Show is where travel, history, and leadership intermingle with history teacher, author, and speaker Dan Blanchard
*Check out Dan’s book, “Travel in Time in Connecticut: https://www.amazon.com/Travel-Time-Connecticut-Timeless-Leadership-ebook/dp/B0CYM3WB22/
*Watch Dan’s YouTube video on this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPPPQMIzFLE
Listen to Dan’s podcast on this episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4JO0wm9cP9vIGHJ3a9NeTE?si=ai5tsqtKTdyUvKMeJ5eNNA
*See Dan’s Interview with the founder of Ted’s Restaurant and the steamed burger, Theodore “Ted” Duberek: (coming soon)
*Learn more about Dan: https://granddaddyssecrets.com/