What happens at the intersection of a skilled chef, a cherished family recipe and the most All-American of sandwiches? Why, the veggie burger at World Street Kitchen, of course. Chef/co-owner Sameh Wadi borrows his mother's formula, forming thick patties of chickpeas ground with parsley and cilantro for color (and cumin and cayenne for flavor) then stuffs them with slow-simmered, sumac-scented onions. Toppings are simple, just red leaf lettuce and a tangy tahini sauce blended with pickles. The results aren't just vegetarian, they're vegan, and fantastic. 2743 Lyndale Av. S., Mpls.; 612-424-8855; eatwsk.com
Runner-up: Be'Wiched Deli
