Many, many years ago when my children were much younger, the “Classic Malt Shop” used to be one of our favorites. It was located in the Von’s Shopping Center on Midway, in a “stand-alone” building that housed several other restaurants. Slowly those restaurants disappeared, and I thought the Classic Malt Shop had also. But I “discovered” them yesterday and called two of the widows and asked if they would like to have a hamburger, French fries and a malt with me. (I have been recovering from broken ribs because I fell over my dog, and this would be the first time out since the accident.)
The physical restaurant is not quite as enticing as the old one was, but the red and white decorations were the same; and ordering at the counter when you first walk in was reminiscent of the old building. The menu was on the wall, and for some of us with a sight problem it was difficult to discern. I did find out later that they have a take-out menu but one had to ask for it.
When I told Irene where we were going she immediately said, “Can I have a cheeseburger instead of a hamburger.” The difference was only 50 cents! She had been hankering for one for some time, she said.
I wanted a hamburger, and Candy ordered a BLT, something she had been craving for some time. French fries came with the hamburgers and the two of us ordered vanilla malts while Candy ordered a vanilla milkshake. The malts and milkshakes were the same price – $4.99 for the small size.
We were served the drinks first and they were delicious. It had been a long time since I had a malt, and the taste brought back happy memories. Candy said the milkshake was great.
Candy’s BLT was loaded with bacon. It probably had more bacon on it than most similar sandwiches. There was a side of butter pickles on the plate. The sandwich was so large that she took half of it home.
Irene and I were not as thrilled with our hamburger/cheeseburger as Candy was with hers. It was ok – but just ok. Even though we added the condiments, it still needed a little something more to be great.
Overall, we were pleased with our meal. The total cost of $41 was very reasonable. The next time we go we may try one of the 14 burgers listed on the menu. For those of you that are vegetarians there is a “Vegi Burger” but no designation of “gluten free” bread.
And as Candy found out, there are sandwiches, cheesesteaks, hot dogs, fish and chips, salads, kids menus, and sides. The “Soda Fountain” part of the menu is extensive also. There are lots of items for many different tastes. Classic Malt Shop
Where: 3625 Midway (Vons Shopping Center, across from JoAnne’s).
Info: 619-226-1600.
