September 18 is the day for cheeseburger friends to come together and share their most memorable experiences with one of the most iconic and delicious meals. Back in 1926, Lionel Sternberger claims he invented the first cheeseburger by experimenting with different tastes and preparation to this burger. We owe it all to a curious 16-year-old teenager for creating the most convenient, easy and delicious food. In my experience, price truly varies with the actual flavor of the burger. In addition, the location is crucial to the desirability, taste and presentation of the one and only cheeseburger.
One of the most memorable places I’ve been to for a good and hearty cheeseburger, fries and milkshake would be Gordy’s Hi-Hat restaurant. It is located in Cloquet, Minnesota, which is very close to Duluth for reference. Gordy’s is a family-run establishment and offers everything from burgers, fries, malts and fish. It is the go-to restaurant for a simple, though yummy, American meal. My go-to order would be their California burger which consists of lettuce, mayo, tomato and added cheese. Fries makes everything better, so I always have to cave in and get fries to share. Usually a malt goes well with this calorie-infused lunch so why not add that to the order? I’m a big Food Network fan and if Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives rings a bell, you’re in luck because they did an entire episode on Guy Fieri trying a good portion of their menu. Though I live in Minneapolis, and Gordy’s is a good four-to-five-hour drive away, there are closer places to go to satisfy my cheeseburger craving.
If driving hours and hours just to find a good cheeseburger joint, no worries, because there are plenty of places near the cities where I live. Right now, I am “attempting” to cut costs and be a responsible college kid by budgeting how I spend my money and a good replacement for a $12burger at a fancy restaurant would be Culver’s. Culver’s burgers ranges from three to six dollars but usually can be upgraded for a small fries and beverage of choice. Though choosing the cheaper option doesn’t compare to other places, my opinion is that it is much better quality than McDonalds or Burger King. My go-to order would be a cheeseburger with tomato, lettuce, pickles and a small fry. For a drink, I opt to stick with my Hydro Flask of water because why not save the turtles?
In conclusion, September 18 will continue to hold a special place in my heart (and stomach). I have loved this meal for as long as I can remember and hope my recommendations will provide an addition to your bucket list down the line. Cheeseburgers have never disappointed and will continue to be a go-to lunch, dinner or maybe even breakfast feast. Disclaimer: Maybe don’t eat cheeseburgers, fries and a milkshake every day. Never underestimate the power of a good salad and the refreshing taste of H2O! If you’re vegan and somehow got here, I’m very sorry and hopefully you come to the dark side soon. Can’t wait to celebrate this year on September 18!