Discovering Burger Point: A taste of home in Sydney
In the heart of Sydney’s bustling food scene lies a gem that has truly resonated with me: Burger Point.
Founded by Filipino chef Tim Casaje and his wife, Liz, this remarkable eatery combines Filipino flavors and classic American burgers, drawing patrons from diverse backgrounds while celebrating their culinary heritage.
I was intrigued. This experience deepened my appreciation for Filipino culture, which Tim and Liz embody through their passion for food.
As immigrants in Australia, they longed for the flavors of home while navigating a new culinary landscape. Motivated by the challenges faced by many Filipino business owners, they took a leap into entrepreneurship with the goal of creating a space that not only showcased their heritage but also supported fellow Filipinos seeking opportunities in the country.
beef patties, American cheese, pickles, signature burger sauce, donut-glazed bun topped with grated cheddar cheese and maple bacon bits
Tim’s journey began long before Burger Point was conceived. After spending over a decade honing his culinary skills—initially serving as the group executive chef in New South Wales, where he worked with a major supermarket chain that owned restaurants—he gained invaluable insights into the food industry and the intricacies of running a successful kitchen.
However, after 11 years, he felt a stirring desire for change. “I realized I couldn’t do this for another 10 years. Why not start our own venture?” he recalled. This decision ultimately paved the way for something truly special.
The road to Burger Point
When I first learned about Burger Point, I was captivated by its backstory. Tim and Liz launched their first venture in Marsden Park, but their path wasn’t easy. They faced significant challenges during the construction phase, including a betrayal by a contractor that left them devastated.
Tim shared, “I had no idea that someone could do that to us.”
In a show of resilience, they took matters into their own hands, literally building their dream from the ground up. Tim laid tiles and completed construction tasks while Liz managed their children and the household.
Every burger tells a story
Walking into Burger Point for the first time, I was immediately struck by the warmth and passion that Tim and Liz have infused into every aspect of their establishment.
The atmosphere felt inviting, and I could sense the love that went into crafting each dish. I was eager to explore the menu, which reflected their journey, offering not just burgers but a variety of Filipino-inspired dishes that elevate the dining experience. From sweet spaghetti with fried chicken—a beloved comfort food—to crispy loaded fries and the famous Halo-Halo Milkshake, there was something that felt both familiar and exciting.
My first taste of Burger Point
I vividly remember my first experience at Burger Point, invited by franchise owners Alvin and Marissa Rebulado.
As someone who typically isn’t a fan of burgers, I approached my meal with curiosity and hesitation. Marissa ordered the Boss burger for me, and it completely changed my perspective. The blend of flavors, the juicy patty, and the fresh toppings created an extraordinary meal that transported me back to cherished childhood memories of family gatherings. The friendly atmosphere and attentive staff turned what could have been a simple dinner into a memorable experience that I still cherish.
What truly sets Burger Point apart is its dedication to authenticity blended with innovation.
Tim and Liz have masterfully taken traditional Filipino flavors and culinary techniques, merging them with the beloved format of a burger.
I was particularly intrigued by their in-house sauces and marinades, crafted from cherished family recipes that infuse every dish with rich, authentic flavors. One standout feature was the donut-glazed burger buns, an unexpected twist that added a hint of sweetness, perfectly complementing the savory fillings. This kind of creativity keeps the menu fresh and exciting, making each visit a delightful culinary adventure.
Tim’s culinary journey
With his extensive experience with the Supermarket chain, Tim gained invaluable knowledge about quality control, kitchen management, and menu development. This background laid the foundation for Burger Point’s emphasis on high-quality ingredients and exceptional service.
is more than just a meal; it’s an experience.
After recognizing the potential in the market, Tim and Liz decided to expand Burger Point, opening a second location in Wentworth Point to accommodate the growing demand. “We couldn’t keep up with the volume of customers; it was a good problem to have,” Tim remarked, and I couldn’t agree more. As they expanded, they also launched Flappys, a chicken joint designed to cater to a broader audience, including the halal market.
Tim, a fan of American fast-food concepts, sought to improve upon existing offerings in Australia, particularly in the fried chicken sector.
“I noticed that there was no good chicken joint in the area. KFC was popular, but it needed improvement,” he explained.
Flappy’s quickly gained traction, with sales skyrocketing to 2,000 meals a day, thanks to strategic marketing and the uniqueness of their menu.
Introducing Sir Manong
In addition to their successful ventures, Tim and Liz introduced Sir Manong, a restaurant dedicated to showcasing traditional Filipino dishes with modern twists.
This was especially meaningful for me, as it provided a space for Filipino staff who were unable to find work at Burger Point. “I wanted to create a space where we could showcase authentic Filipino cuisine and provide job opportunities,” Tim stated.
Sir Manong’s menu features a variety of beloved Filipino dishes, including adobo, sinigang, and lechon, prepared with a contemporary flair.
I was thrilled to see these traditional recipes come to life in a way that appealed to both our community and new patrons. By combining classic flavors with modern presentation, Sir Manong not only serves delicious food but also educates diners about Filipino culture and heritage.
This establishment has become a haven for those seeking comfort food that resonates with their roots, and it has quickly gained popularity among both the Filipino community and locals eager to explore new flavors.
Sir Manong embodies Tim and Liz’s commitment to celebrating their culture and providing a platform for Filipino cuisine to thrive in Australia.
Community and connection
Tim and Liz’s commitment to their community is evident in their engagement with local initiatives and charitable efforts. They actively support organizations and foster connections with customers, making Burger Point and Sir Manong more than just restaurants; they are gathering places where people come together to celebrate good food and shared experiences.
Their outreach programs include donations to local charities and initiatives that provide support to families in need, which is something I deeply admire. This sense of community transforms each visit into a personal encounter, reminiscent of the strong bonds formed over meals back home.
As their business flourished, Tim faced new challenges, particularly in staffing. The influx of Filipino employees created a unique dynamic, sometimes making it difficult for non-Filipinos to feel comfortable in the kitchen. “We tried to hire locals, but many were reluctant to join a kitchen filled with Filipino staff,” he noted. Additionally, Tim highlighted the ongoing struggle for businesses in Australia to find reliable staff, especially in the post-COVID landscape.
Despite these challenges, Tim remains optimistic about the future. With plans to open six new stores this year, including two in Melbourne, he is committed to expanding his brand further. “The market is there, and we want to grow aggressively,” he asserted, emphasizing the importance of community support in their journey.
