The best diners are community favorites, the types of places that locals will defend fiercely. Almost every neighborhood has one, a hole-in-the-wall that customers have frequented for sometimes generations. They know the routines, they know the servers, they have their favorites from the menu.
So if you’re new to Delaware, Ohio, here’s the favorite diner for locals: The Hamburger Inn.
The Hamburger Inn is a classic old school spot. On weekends it’s crowded with locals. The grill is constantly at work. Servers bustle efficiently to and fro.
For those that love a good counter seat, you’re in luck: that’s all Hamburger Inn offers. The dining room features three large, U-shaped counters, so you’re automatically part of the community, squeezed side-by-side on stools. You seat yourself at the restaurant, and if you’re coming with a big group, be prepared to split up.
I love those types of counters: they give servers easy access to customers without having to reach over shoulders.
First things first: no matter what you’re getting, you need to order a cinnamon roll (or two or three). They’re Hamburger Inn’s most famous famous dish, and rightfully so. They come out warm and soft, rich with cinnamon filling and covered in a not-too-sweet icing. One bite in and it’s easy to see why they’re such a stand-out.
I’ve been told that you can order them toasted as well, which many regulars say is the way to go. And if you’re really all-in, the diner features cinnamon roll French toast using the same dough.
But Hamburger Inn doesn’t snooze on its breakfast, either. The Hometown Favorite is your classic combo of eggs cooked to order, choice of meat, home fries (which are scalloped and do need some salt/pepper), and a choice of toast.
Pretty solid biscuits and gravy, too. The biscuits were a little cakey, but the gravy is chunky and well-seasoned.
Oh, and did we mention the cinnamon rolls? Order more of those.
The omelets are pretty size-able, too, served with home fries and toast.
And, yes! The burgers are great at The Hamburger Inn. You can even order them for breakfast.
All this goes to say… if you’re dining in Delaware, The Hamburger Inn is the place to try. At the very least, stop by and grab a dozen cinnamon rolls.
Want to see some grainy cellphone photos of The Hamburger Inn from 2011? Click here!
The Hamburger Inn
16 N. Sandusky St.
Delaware, OH 43015
(740) 369-3850
Web: hamburgerinndiner.com
FB: @thehamburgerinn
IG: @hamburger_inn
