This photo of All American Burger in Massapequa NY, posted on the Vintage Roadside Facebook page is what totally put Long Island on the Retro Roadmap for me and got me thinking about visiting. Thanks to photographer Don Brunjes for not only capturing a great shot of that fabulous vintage neon signage, but also granting me permission to share that photo with you all!
My photos didn't nearly come out as good as that since we were visiting during the blistering hot afternoon, but in the name of research I got myself one tasty cheeseburger, some fries and a diet Coke (this is after, mind you, breakfast in a diner, a dish of ice cream and a chocolate egg cream all within 4 hours or so!).
All American Burger has been serving up burgers franks and fries since 1952, and the prices have remained affordably affordable!
The place was packed when we got there and if I were more of a "take pictures of people I don't know" kinda gal, I totally would've snapped a photo of our order taker, who looks like she's worked here for a while, and was totally adorable with her hair just so and big sunglasses.
What I do like to take pictures of are designs that continue to be used by businesses and look authentically original. I snapped the above photo as we sat outside at one of the few round tables out front, dodging sparrows who were divebombing our fries (which alas weren't crinkle cut). One thing I didn't realize until it was time to throw away our trash, was that cool shield design was also on the bag as well. Dang, guess we'll have to go back there again!
After the sweets we had eaten already this day our cheeseburgers totally hit the spot, and from the raves this place gets online and in person, I know we're not the only ones to have enjoyed our meal here.
That building is very interesting – almost a direct copy of the classic McDonald’s building designed by Stanley Meston, only without the golden arches.
We drive 1/2 hr – 45 minutes just to get there every Saturday, and I order 2 double-doubles, 1 small fries, and a small chocolate shake. Most people eat in their cars. There are only like 4 outdoor tables, and they are usually taken up. But it’s fun to sit in your car and eat and watch other people eat. Food is love. The line goes super fast. Even when it’s crowded, you can get in and out within 5 minutes. So worth the trip. Super low prices. Me and my husband eat for less than $13.00 all total.
Maryann – you folks are my kinda people! I’d be driving that distance for sure if the All American Burger was in my neighborhood. And I know what you mean about the small outdoor seating, but it’s worth it. I can’t help but be heartened when I hear that folks like you make the detour to eat at cool old places like this – thanks for making my day! 🙂
I love this place – been going there since 1970. By far the best fast food burgers and fries you can get. Very much like Wetson’s was so many years ago.
wendyvee
August 13, 2010 at 6:26 pmOne more for my “to-do” list 😉
Glenn Wells
August 14, 2010 at 5:56 amThat building is very interesting – almost a direct copy of the classic McDonald’s building designed by Stanley Meston, only without the golden arches.
Maryann O
September 10, 2011 at 2:50 pmWe drive 1/2 hr – 45 minutes just to get there every Saturday, and I order 2 double-doubles, 1 small fries, and a small chocolate shake. Most people eat in their cars. There are only like 4 outdoor tables, and they are usually taken up. But it’s fun to sit in your car and eat and watch other people eat. Food is love. The line goes super fast. Even when it’s crowded, you can get in and out within 5 minutes. So worth the trip. Super low prices. Me and my husband eat for less than $13.00 all total.
Mod Betty
September 10, 2011 at 9:36 pmMaryann – you folks are my kinda people! I’d be driving that distance for sure if the All American Burger was in my neighborhood. And I know what you mean about the small outdoor seating, but it’s worth it. I can’t help but be heartened when I hear that folks like you make the detour to eat at cool old places like this – thanks for making my day! 🙂