So named because it’s supposedly impossible to differentiate it from real beef, the Impossible Burger has been a game-changer for those craving vegan versions of traditional carnivorous dishes.

Since its launch in 2019, more than 5,000 restaurants have utilized the plant-based bovine flesh replacement in some form. Impossible Burger’s contagious popularity stems largely from its successful mimicry of the taste of meat, but it's also its unique granular, juicy appearance.

Are you eager to try the Impossible Burger? Fortunately, it is not impossible to find it at revered local joints.

Local Foods was one of the earliest adopters of the Impossible Burger and regularly incorporates it in the regular and rotating menu of vegan and vegetarian platters, such as meatless meatloaf and soul-comforting frito pie. With all due respect to 44 Farms, consider swapping out its prime product in Local’s terrific burger (served on a pretzel bun—genius!) once in a while in favor of the Impossible Burger option. When I did, I jokingly requested my burger to be cooked “rare” and had to triple-check with the server that I did receive the meatless rendition, because my Impossible patty boasted a rose-pink interior. 

Recently, deli maven Ziggy Gruber has been experimenting with the Impossible Burger and currently offers diners at Kenny & Ziggy's New York Delicatessen the choice of Impossible meat for any of its over-the-top “Fancy Schmany” Burgers. And while technically not on the menu, K&Z’s famous reuben—if you ask nicely, according to Gruber—can also be made Impossible-style.

Finally, Hopdoddy Burger Bar, in addition to offering a lean, mean veggie burger, also vends The Impossible, made with (you guessed it), Impossible protein. It’s topped with lettuce, tomato, "sassy sauce,” and Tilamook cheddar, but if you’re willing to go all the way to the vegan side, you can elect for vegan mayonnaise and vegan smoked gouda, instead.

At just under $13, it’s more expensive than Hopdoddy’s other burgers, but I will pay a little extra to save the planet. I bet you will, too. 

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