Bites Nearby: Swenson's

In 1933, Swenson’s founder Wesley T. “Pop” Swenson started selling hamburgers from his station wagon at the newly opened Buchtel High School. Over 75 years after, the Swenson name is synonymous with hamburger genius—mentioned in the same breath as Akron’s Menches brothers for elevating an American classic.

is an institution, one that boasts seven burger-fry-shake drive-in locations with curbside service that harkens back to a bygone era. And their double-sauced Galley Boy is a national legend, too: the double cheeseburger recently toppled another Akron burger tradition, the Skyway Drive-In’s SkyHi double-decker, in a Food Network “Food Feuds” showdown hosted by Iron Chef Michael Symon.

Swenson’s offers other great sandwiches, including a Steak Sirloin Strip, ¼ lb Fried Bologna, and surprisingly good vegetarian Salad Boy burger. Want a malted milkshake or phosphate with that? No problem. Just don’t forget to “leave your lights on for service.” Here are some insider tips: 1) French fries are great, but don’t miss the crisp-crunch of the specially seasoned onion rings. 2) Try a Mint Whip, even if it feels like cheating on your York Peppermint Patty, Junior Mints or favorite mint chip ice cream. 

Seven Northeast Ohio locations, including Akron, Stow-Kent, North Canton and Montrose. Open daily for lunch, dinner and late night snacking. $2 to $5 for sandwiches; $4 to $16 for dinners.