If The Burger Stand is known for one thing — aside from its burgers — it’s probably the fries.

Polenta fries at The Burger Stand, 803 Massachusetts St.

The restaurant offers a half-dozen or so variations on the classic side, from sweet-potato fries to the more upscale duck-fat fries. For this week’s Off the Beaten Plate, we decided to forgo tradition and try out the polenta fries — which, in case you hadn’t guessed, are made with polenta, which contains cornmeal. No potatoes involved.

They’re crunchy on the outside. The interior is firm, not creamy, and has a texture resembling the outer shell of tamale. A sprinkling of parmesan cheese and fresh herbs give the dish a little extra flavor.

Where to get it:The Burger Stand, 803 Massachusetts St.

What you’ll pay: $4, plus tax

Try it with: Load up on some dipping sauces (parmesan aioli, anyone?) and a pickle spear or two. They’re free.

Also on the menu: If you’re in the mood for a burger — and who isn’t? — The Burger Stand has plenty to choose from. Like the Black & Blue, topped with blue cheese, granny smith apple chutney and local greens. Vegetarians have options, too. The Garbo, which comprises a garbanzo bean patty, sweet dill relish, citrus-garlic aioli, Vermont cheddar and tomato, is a hearty meal by itself.

We also sampled The Burger Stand’s smoked tofu fries. They’re also potato-free, and taste, not surprisingly, a bit like BBQ or cured bacon. Of course, you can order regular fries there, too. Salads, hot dogs and milkshakes (both alcoholic and old-fashioned) round out the roster.

— Off The Beaten Plate highlights some of the more exotic, oddly named or inventively concocted dishes from local menus. Know of an offbeat item we should check out? Email reporter Joanna Hlavacek at jhlavacek@ljworld.com. Follow her at Twitter.com/hlavacekjoanna