Lankford's

In all its '40s-style glory, Lankford's, formerly known as Lankford Grocery & Market, includes a grill that offers hamburgers--greasy real-beef patties and all the fixings. Good ol' boys, professionals and other types merge here for lunch, while the regulars prefer the evenings. This hole-in-the-wall diner with uneven floors has a small-town, homey feel. Inside you will find old-fashioned booths and tables with '40s-style decorations. The outside seating area is shady and covered with picnic tables and a few booths. Try the Red, White and Blue Burger, the Firehouse if you like spicy, or the Grim burger, acclaimed for being loaded with jalapenos, bacon, a fried egg and macaroni and cheese. Because of its widespread popularity, Lankford gets incredibly busy. Expect a long line during lunch hours but good customer service from staff members who have been there for years.

Featured on The Food Network's Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives (2010). Included on Gourmet magazine's list of 20 Burgers to Eat Before It's Too Late (2009).