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All-American burgers in Charlotte
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Big Daddy's Mama Ricotta's Burger and
Sweet Potatoe Fries.
Nothing beats a really great burger and Charlotte offers an array of unique burger taste. Here are the top local favorites for this classic summer favorite.
The Penguin
Ask about burgers in Charlotte and the Penguin will certainly come up in conversation. Originally opened in 1954 the story of this struggling neighborhood icon has received a lot of press since resurrecting itself in 1999 under new ownership. The Penguin even attracted the attention of the Food Network’s Dinners, Drive-ins and Dives for its homemade corn dogs and fried pickles.
This is a no frills, working man’s burger joint with oversized portions and low prices that keep the small place jammed with customers every day of the week. Burgers, hand dipped corn dogs, and homemade grilled pimento cheese are served in quick fashion by the bustling staff.
Located in the heart of the Plaza-Midwood neighborhood, the Penguin reflects the eclectic atmosphere surrounding its location. Families with young children, business people, and bikers equally frequent the reborn Penguin to enjoy their tasty dinner food.
Guest looking to avoid the higher calorie menu options will find Brunswick strew, a meatless soy dog (called Winky-Dinky Dog) and several salad options. The bar is stocked with the basics brews you would expect and the junk box provides background for the energetic atmosphere. During the weekend the crowds can be large and it’s not unusual to have to wait for a seat but for those looking for a great dinner experience, the Penguin is your best bet in Charlotte.
The Penguin does not have a web site but they do have a MySpace page for more information.
Big Daddy’s Burger Bar
Located off trendy East Blvd in the Dilworth neighborhood, Big Daddy’s is not your typical greasy spoon burger joint. Chef Adam has created a mouth watering array of hearty, top-quality, burgers and sides. On a typical weeknight, guest poor into this cozy setting for a few drinks, some friendly laughs, and the most delicious gourmet burgers in Charlotte.
Crowd favorites include:
- The Mama Ricotta’s Burger (with house made mozzarella, pesto, and vine ripe tomatoes, tossed in extra virgin olive oil).
- The Cantina 1511 Burger (a black bean burger topped with green chilies, cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheese, avocado and chipotle ranch).
- Classic Southern Burger (topped with chili, American cheese, relish, mustard, and slaw).
Bid Daddy’s uses only 100% grass fed hormone-free beef and guest can taste the difference with every delicious bite. Burgers can be paired with their famous sweet potatoes fries or fried pickles for a truly Southern experience. Add one of their amazingly delicious milk shakes to round out the perfect meal. Salads, wings, chicken sandwiches, and a Portabella mushroom sandwich balance out the menu.
Big Daddy’s offers patio seating as well as a full breakfast menu on the weekends. For more information, directions and details on upcoming grilling classes and specials, visit their web site.
South 21 Drive-In
Here the food and the dining experience offer patrons a special treat. Since 1955 South 21 has been serving customers simple and delicious food right to their car. The experience begins when guest arrive by car, park next to a small menu stand with a microphone attached, and place their order. Soon a car-hop dressed in the customary red blazer will appear with their piping hot food. Then, guest get a second treat when they sample the famous Super-Boy Burger, Fish-O-Burger, onion rings, and milk shakes.
South 21 is located off Independence Blvd. just east of Center City. The drive-in is closed on Sundays and Mondays. For directions and daily hours visit their web site.
Foster’s Grill
Burger fans looking for a top pick in North Charlotte and the University area should give Foster’s Grill a try. True, it is a franchise, but owners Kurt and Doug have given the place a lot of neighborhood charm, and they deliver an outstanding meal.
Menu favorites are the ½ lb Charburger, the fresh hand-cut fries, and the super-thick milkshakes. Fresh squeezed lemonade, wings, sandwiches, and their famous grilled hot dogs are also available.
Conveniently located just across the street from Concord Mills Mall, Foster’s is a favorite for tourist and locals. Patio seating is available, and they host a kids night each Wednesday with entertainment and food specials. Visit their web site for directions and a peek at their menu.
For more info:
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