Diners have always served to be a fascinating glimpse into the American lifestyle. It’s so ingrained within US culture that several art pieces have immortalized the concept— Think Edward Hopper’s gloomy piece Nighthawks or for an opposite vibe, the many diner-setting paintings of Norman Rockwell. Even in pop culture, we find diners to serve as the go-to spot for the characters to hang out and talk about what’s going on in their lives. Most might fondly recall whenever Fonzie hits the diner’s jukebox to start up a tune in Happy Days. 

Locally, several retro-themed diners have begun popping up to draw in people with their bright neon lighting and various trinkets displayed across the restaurant. Among those that stand out is Hackensack 1950s Hamburgers at the Devour Food Hub in Quezon City. As soon as you step through its doors, you feel as if you’ve transported yourself to the past with its retro atmosphere. Staff are even dressed similarly to the waitstaff of classic American dinners to further sell the theme.

Hackensack’s menu offers a variety of classic American meals done right. Just looking at the pictures off the menu is enough to make your mouth water. Of course, for diners, the meal that makes or breaks the place is its staple dish—the classic cheeseburger. What makes Hackensack special is that it offers the American favorite in two variations, deluxe smashed or onion-steamed. 

Deluxe smashed is one of the many traditional ways of preparing a hamburger in the US. Rolled up as a ball, the meat is then smashed onto the grill as it cooks to allow for a sear on the outside of the meat to unleash its juices and flavor. Meanwhile, the onion-steamed hamburger follows a century-old style of cooking up a large batch of onions, letting it steam, before placing the burger to cook from the onion’s steam. Both differ vastly in their flavors, as the first offers a more savory punch whereas the second has a sweet kick, thanks to the onions. Try both out and see which you prefer!

Other burger variants being offered are the Monty Brewster, a breakfast-style cheeseburger that includes bacon and eggs, and the Southern Chicken Burger, perfect for those who prefer chicken over beef. For a different spin on the classic cheeseburger, try the 1940s Patty Melt! Rather than using the traditional buns, it uses sliced bread making it a lighter meal to enjoy. We also recommend trying out their take on the Philly Cheesesteak sandwich, pure meaty goodness covered in cheesy delight.

Best paired with your hamburger of choice are the fries, we recommend trying the Angus Chili Fries as a side to add some more punch. There’s also the Fried Onion Strings, for the onion lovers out there. The wings, offered in either Buffalo style or honey garlic, also make for a great side dish. Of course, the best way to wash it all down in a diner is to go for the classic milkshake with your flavor of choice (chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla). 

If you think that’s all, there’s always room for dessert! Most diners are portrayed to have a fresh pie on display by the counter, Hackensack did its homework. Top off your entire burger experience with a fresh hot slice of the homemade apple pie, served as is or ala mode! It’s certainly a great end to a dining experience that perfectly captures the comfy retro diner feel.