KEWPEE BURGER

In the unlikely event that you find yourself in Lima, OH, I got the place for you to eat. Grab a burger at Kewpee Burger in downtown Lima. Why? Most importantly, because of its history. Its the second oldest, fast-food burger chain still in existence…founded in 1923. The first is generally considered to be White Castle hamburgers founded in 1921. To be clear, Kewpee was actually founded in Flint, MI. And, according to their website, there are only 5 remaining Kewpee Burger restaurants. There are 3 in Lima, 1 in Racine, WI, and 1 in Lansing, MI. If you are going to make the drive to this historic food icon, go to the one in downtown Lima (not the east or west one) because downtown is the oldest site still active.

So, let’s review my lunch at Kewpee Burger in downtown Lima. First, I would caution you not to show up right in the heart of the lunch rush. Go early or go late…these Lima people love their Kewpee burgers. The place is great. It has that classic diner/malt shop look. The menu is a throwback. With a few exceptions, you basically can only order burger, fries and/or chili. The costs are all typically less than $2.50 an item. The burger is good. I am sure if you are a foodie type, you could find criticism with their offerings. But, if you are a foodie type, you are probably reading the wrong blog. Desserts are old school…malts and pie. The hamburgers are not huge. If you are an eater, get two.

Lastly, how can I discuss Kewpee Burger without mentioning their iconic symbol…the ever-present, anatomically incorrect, gender inspecific, baby doll….known as the Kewpee doll. They are everyone in the restaurant and some very large ones outside. Be prepared to eat your food while being stared at by this creepy, naked baby. I had to look up the chicken and egg question here…is the restaurant named after the Kewpee doll, or is the Kewpee doll named after the restaurant. The answer is that the Kewpee doll appeared in comics a little over 10 years before the restaurant.

As I have said before, I am all about pursuing that little slice of Americana. This place is a great slice of Americana. Show up outside of lunch hour, enjoy the historic atmosphere, enjoy a burger and malt, and enjoy the reasonable prices. If you are not a stuck up foodie…stop by Kewpee Burger in downtown Lima for a very enjoyable, fine dining experience. PT