Swensons Drive Ins

Photo by OHventures

Swensons Drive-In (original location)
40 S Hawkins Ave

Akron, OH 44313

(330) 864-8416

I know I am always writing in this blog telling you how to be active, stay in shape and workout, but let's face it: we all need some cheat eats every now and then, and there is no better place to pig out than Swensons Drive-In restaurant. Swensons has only seven locations (in the whole wide world) and they can all be found in beautiful Northeast Ohio. The very first of these yummy establishments was erected in 1934 near Market Street in West Akron. Now, you can also find Swensons in North Akron, Kent, Montrose, North Canton, Jackson Township, and Seven Hills.

So why am I clamoring so loudly about some dinky fast food chain? Aside from the fact that (as mentioned) they are only found in Ohio, these restaurants have been recognized numerous times as having some of the BEST burgers in the nation. And this isn't just your crazy Uncle Buck or your nosy neighbor Linda telling you this. These accolades have come from legitimate sources, including Forbes Magazine, who flat out gave Swensons the title of "America's Best Burger" in 1999.

Swensons was also featured on The Food Network's show "Food Feuds" in which it competed against another local burger joint and won the title of the "Best Juicy Double Cheeseburger in the Akron Area." These are just some of the many morsels of praise Swensons has received throughout the many decades of its existence.

The Galley Boy hamburger is what to get when you go here (which I know you will, since it's on the Buckeye Bucket List). It is famous for its two mysterious special sauces that are slathered all over a double cheeseburger and garnished with a single green olive. And, while I could go on and on about the delectable menu, some other highlights would be the fantastic fried mushrooms (pictured above), the zesty and cheesy potato teasers, and any one of the multitude of milkshake flavors they offer (including mint, peanut butter, key lime, and butterscotch). And my personal favorite beverage? The "refreshingly different" Californian, which is a grape and lemon soft drink combo that tastes like, well, California!

If you aren't hungry yet, you will be the moment you pull into this Ohio favorite. The best part is, you don't even have to get out of your car - it's one of the few remaining good old fashioned drive-ins! Even more of a reason to hit the gym after a satisfying visit to Swensons!