The Apple Pan

Queue up and take a seat around the U-shaped counter at the Apple Pan, which has somehow, someway, managed to escape time. Aside from a few minor changes over the years—I still miss the old-school paper soda cones with metal cupholders—the restaurant has largely stayed the same in terms of the interior layout and menu. Burger patties sizzle on the griddle that’s been around for decades (since 1947, to be exact) and served by friendly staff, including more than a handful that have worked here for decades. The most modern updates? Since the pandemic, you can sit outside in the newer outdoor dining area, and vegans and vegetarians can opt for an Impossible patty. But the go-to order for me is still the classic smoky hickoryburger, which comes slathered in house barbecue sauce and can only be made better by ordering double the cheese. If I’m with more than one other person, I usually like to split the tuna melt or a patty melt for a little more variety. Pair your handhelds with an order of crispy fries and save room for a slice or two of the equally-famous housemade pies (á la mode, all the way).