02/28/2026
My order at Butterfly Burger surprises people.
I usually start my meal with the Mowee Bites, our mahi mahi lettuce wraps. I love hearing people who have never had them make yummy sounds at first bite, because it’s unexpected for this fish item to be such a star.
I also cannot resist sharing our Green Goddess Cobb kale salad. It is the most decadent salad I do at any restaurant. I just love the way we bring together all the elements: the grilled lemon chicken, the avocado, our crumbled white cheddar, and the bacon. With all the protein in there, sometimes I just go and share the salad, then nibble at other things.
Many people know that side dishes are my passion. At Butterfly Burger, the Yukon Gold Potato Salad is, I think, our claim to fame. Every time I walk into the restaurant, it’s going to be the first thing that I try to make sure it’s coming out exactly as it should. I can go in and just have a potato salad with the Kale Salad. Why not?
Most times, I’m at Butterfly Burger with a friend or someone in our company, so we get to try more fattening, rich, decadent things. Contrary to common belief, I don't eat so much red meat. My vegetarian nature from when I was a kid is starting to come out again. But when I crave a burger, which I do, I get it here because I know what we're eating and we’re eating with no guilt.
Now anyone who hasn’t had the Pollo Justino grilled chicken sandwich is truly missing out. I think that’s the hidden wonder at Butterfly Burger. Everyone in my family, especially my brother Jay, is a big burger lover. He says, “I love your burgers, but I think the Justino sandwich is the best thing on the menu.” And I have to tell you, he might be right!
It is so mega, because you have the special marinated grilled chicken, manchego, two pieces of Beeler’s bacon, pimentón aioli, and guacamole, on this really incredible honey-grain bun. I mean, it just melts in your mouth. I always take it for leftovers.
The hidden trick at any of my restaurants is to always order what has Justin’s name on it. Every restaurant has a Justin favorite, and I really like to believe he’s saying “mom, put my name on this.”
