Golden Dawn Diner III - Off the Path

Golden Dawn Diner III
2090 Whitehorse-Mercerville Rd
Hamilton NJ 08619

July 22, 2011

"Off the Path" means the restaurant is not in the "Hamburger America" book, but was recommended while discussing our burger ventures.

Louis and I took a short drive on a Friday afternoon to a Jersey diner that was recommended for their great burgers. I had their classic burger, with lettuce, tomato and onion for $4.95, Louis had their Teriyaki burger, also $4.95. Both came with fries, coleslaw and pickle. NO substitutions. Louis loved his burger, but mine was truly just average. Not great, but certainly not bad… just average. The service was fast, but not so friendly. We probably won’t return.

CHARCOAL PIT

CHARCOAL PIT
2600 Concord Pike
N Wilmington, DE 19803
www.charcoalpit.net

Let's just cut to the chase here: This diner made the book because of the old-time 1950's ambiance, not for the burger. The burger wasn't bad by any means, it just wasn't anything to write home about. The building and decor were old-time 50's diner, with working jukeboxes at the booths, and they had wonderful, friendly, fast service. Louis had a "Pit Special" for $6.95 which is a 1/2 lb burger on a kaiser roll, with cheese, tomato, lettuce, pickle and fries. I had the "Pit Deluxe" for $3.95, which is 1/4 lb burger on a sesame seed bun with cheese, tomato, lettuce, pickle, and onion, with mayo on the side. They were very generous with the onion, mayo, and pickle, but a little cheap with the cheese. The burgers had a nice flavor, but were a little on the dry side. I would go again if I were in the area, but I would probably order something else. I wouldn't go out of my way to get a burger here, they're just average. They seem to be favored by the locals for their ice cream creations more than anything. If I ever return, I'll start with dessert!