Road-Trip Food: Cheeburger Cheeburger, Auburn, Alabama

A throwback to the malt shop in Happy Days, this cheeseburger joint serves up mouth-watering meals--and kids' food in boxes shaped like a 1957 Chevy convertible.

By Debi Lander

Arthur Fonzarelli, aka "The Fonz," would give two thumbs up and an "Aaaaay!" to the original Cheeburger Cheeburger in Auburn, Alabama. The joint is a throwback to Arnold's malt shop from the TV show Happy Days. I visited on Auburn University's opening game day of the football season, and the place was packed.

The atmospheric jive beats to the tune of oldies, food, and frivolity: retro Fifties to early Sixties aluminum chairs with faux turquoise-leather upholstery, Formica-topped tables, neon lighting, and a soda fountain. T-shirts, college pennants, and memorabilia decorate the walls.

The menu features 100-percent Angus beef burgers, including the famous Pounder, which is actually 20 ounces. If you finish this monster, your waiter will take your picture to add to the wall of fame.

Diners choose from eight cheeses and a slew of toppings for their size burger or chicken sandwich. Invent your own salad and ice cream dessert the same way: Pick ingredients any way you desire. And, boy, my milkshake made me feel like I'd found my thrill... on Blueberry Hill.

Children's menu selections are served in a cardboard box that is shaped like a 1957 Chevy convertible. Kids love it. Should your youngster down a half pounder, her photo will join the kid's wall of fame. In the Sixties, that was cool. In this politically correct age, I suspect someone will call for a halt to the tradition, claiming childhood obesity concerns.

Whatever.

If you feel like an old-fashioned, lip-smacking, juicy--dare I say, slightly greasy--grilled hamburger with fries and a shake (or, better yet, an ice-cold beer), head over to Cheeburger Cheeburger, now in 59 locations. The place will make your day a happy one.

Cheeburger Cheeburger
160 North College Street
Auburn, Alabama
(334) 826-0845