Ocean Beach, CA – In a bold and somewhat audacious move, a new Ocean Beach burger joint is challenging residents to prove their loyalty to local businesses by purchasing their artisanal burgers—each priced at an eye-watering $50.
The Price of Local Pride
In the heart of Ocean Beach, where community spirit is as rich as the artisanal aioli, a new burger spot has opened its doors with an aggressive "shop local" campaign. Their message is clear: if you don't buy our $50 burger, you don't truly support local businesses.
Gourmet Ingredients or Bust
So, what makes these burgers so expensive? According to owner Tommy Tipperton, it’s all about the ingredients. "We only use grass-fed, free-range, hand-massaged beef from cows that listen to classical music," he said, proudly displaying the organic microgreens and freshly baked, gluten-free brioche buns. "If you’re not willing to pay for quality, you’re not supporting your community."
The "Shop Local" Guilt Trip
The burger joint’s marketing campaign is relentless and guilt-laden. Posters and social media ads urge residents to “Invest in Your Community” and “Prove Your Loyalty to OB.” The subtext is clear: if you’re not willing to shell out fifty dollars for a burger, you’re failing your community.
"I skipped my rent to buy lunch here," joked David Pickerton. "But hey, at least now I can hold my head high in the local coffee shop."
The Art of Justification
Owner Tommy defends the pricing with unyielding conviction. "You're not just buying a burger; you're buying an experience, a statement, a badge of honor," he declared. "Plus, do you know how much it costs to keep cows stress-free and happy? If you’re not willing to pay, you’re not supporting local."
The Price of Loyalty: When Supporting Local Becomes Too Costly
As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: OBecians want to support local businesses, but they’re starting to push back against being gouged in the name of community pride. The absurd price tag on these burgers has turned the noble idea of “shop local” into a guilt trip.
Locals are sending a clear message: We want to support our community, but we need something reasonable in return. Stop acting like we owe it to you to pay exorbitant prices for the sake of loyalty.
Supporting local shouldn’t mean emptying your wallet. After all, nothing says true community spirit like fair prices and mutual respect between businesses and their patrons.