El’s Drive-In

chili, coleslaw, and onions. The cheeseburger version includes a slice of American cheese.

STARTED IN 1959 by El Franks, this family-owned and operated landmark is beloved for its simple, consistently delicious hamburgers, hot dogs, and shrimpburgers.

Cars and trucks start lining up in the parking lot by 10:15 a.m. Seasoned waitresses emerge from the modest brick building, briskly walking to each vehicle and jotting down orders.

Don’t miss the signature El’s Superburger featuring 5 ounces of perfectly seasoned beef with mustard, said he drove all the way from Nashville, NC, more than 60 miles away.

“We use top ground Braveheart beef, and we hand-patty the burgers each day,” said owner Mark Franks, the founder’s son, while cooking on a Friday at lunchtime alongside his son, Shelton Franks.

Another surefire winning option is the shrimpburger brimming with lightly fried shrimp along with homemade slaw and Hunt’s ketchup.

“People think we use some kind of special sauce, but it’s just the way the ketchup and the slaw mix together,” Franks explained.

Regular patron Teresa Grooms indicated she has been coming to Bill’s for nearly 60 years.

“I usually get two hot dogs all the way with extra onions,” she said with a smile while clutching her brown paper bag like it was filled with gold.

Bill’s is takeout-only and open 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. It does accept credit cards. Grab a bag of potato chips, a MoonPie, and glass-bottled Pepsi before you go.

Word to the wise: Don’t just eat in your car. Step across the road, find a bench, and enjoy the serenity of the Pamlico River while you try not to spill chili on your shirt.

109 GLADDEN ST., WASHINGTON (252) 946-3343

Loyal patrons come early and often.

“My husband and I were married for 41 years before he died, but we came here to El’s on our first date,” said Gail Parish of Newport, NC, as she waited for her Superburger to arrive. “This is a special place.”

Savor your meal at a wooden picnic table shaded by mammoth oak trees. While you’re there, watch seagulls flock to the parking lot or perch atop the restaurant building’s sign. It’s all part of the magical El’s experience.

3706 ARENDELL ST., MOREHEAD CITY (252) 726-3002

ELSDRIVEIN.COM