In the heart of Chicago, where the savory scent of grilling beef lingers in the air, George Motz’s love affair with hamburgers began. Descending into the subterranean sanctuary of the Billy Goat Tavern, Motz proclaimed, “There is no other food that says ‘America’ like the burger.” This declaration, rooted in his deep appreciation for the quintessential American dish, would later blossom into a culinary journey that transcended borders and captivated palates.
Motz, a native of Long Island and a seasoned commercial cameraman turned documentary filmmaker, found inspiration one fateful evening while watching TV with his wife, Casey. As they tuned into a show about hot dogs, Motz’s mind wandered to the absence of a definitive documentary celebrating hamburgers—a culinary icon deserving of its own spotlight.
Driven by this vision, Motz embarked on a cross-country quest to unearth America’s most legendary burger joints. Armed with a set of criteria emphasizing freshness, tradition, and distinctiveness, Motz traversed the nation for nearly three years, documenting the stories behind each cherished establishment.
From the iconic Billy Goat Tavern in Chicago to the venerable Top Notch Beefburgers in Beverly, Motz’s cinematic odyssey, “Hamburger America,” showcased the enduring allure of family-owned eateries steeped in tradition. These establishments, serving as culinary time capsules, preserved a bygone era of American dining while captivating audiences with their rich history and mouthwatering offerings.
Motz’s passion for burgers extended beyond the silver screen, leading him to create the Food Film Festival—a celebration of culinary cinema that brought together food enthusiasts from near and far. Additionally, he delved into the world of television, hosting the Travel Channel’s “Made in America” series, which showcased the craftsmanship behind iconic American products.
Eager to share his knowledge and expertise, Motz ventured into academia, teaching a course on hamburgers at New York University—an endeavor that further solidified his status as a burger aficionado. Alongside his culinary pursuits, Motz penned several books, including the acclaimed “Hamburger America: A State-by-State Guide to 200 Great Burger Joints” and “Great American Burger Book: How to Make Authentic Regional Hamburgers at Home,” cementing his legacy as a leading authority on all things burgers.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Motz remained undeterred, channeling his creativity into Burgerslide—a socially distant burger delivery system that brought joy to burger enthusiasts across New York City.
Motz’s culinary journey reached new heights with the opening of “Hamburger America” in the bustling streets of New York City. A labor of love brought to life by Motz and his esteemed partners, Jonathan and Andrew Schnipper, the restaurant quickly became a culinary mecca, attracting esteemed guests and garnering accolades from critics.
New York Magazine hailed Motz as one of the biggest names in burgers, while The New Yorker praised the restaurant’s classic smash burger for its “honest flavors” and “modest size.” With its retro design, reminiscent of an old-fashioned luncheonette, and a menu featuring timeless favorites, “Hamburger America” captured the essence of American dining while paying homage to its rich culinary heritage.
Motz’s infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication shine through as he greets patrons and crafts burgers behind the counter. For Motz, “Hamburger America” is more than just a restaurant—it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of burgers and the shared experiences they evoke.
As Motz continues to welcome guest hamburger makers from around the country to man the grill, “Hamburger America” serves as a beacon of culinary excellence—a place where burgers are more than just a meal; they’re a celebration of American culture and tradition.