There are very few historic burger joints left in Los Angeles, but The Apple Pan is still king. Open since 1947, this little burger hut sits on busy Pico Blvd, right across from the Westside Pavilion mall. Consisting of only one large U-shaped counter that seats 20 people (no tables/no booths), the wait is standing room only, and it is truly first come first serve. Seeing how to this day the place still gets packed, particularly during the lunch rush, you have to be aggressive when bidding for a stool. However, dining at The Apple Pan is always a speedy experience (in and out in 15-20 minutes), so don’t let those long lines sway you to go elsewhere.

Don’t expect service with a smile! The employees, most of which have been there over two decades, are unforgiving and make no apologies for their obtrusive behavior. It’s great! They’ll throw your silverware down in front of you, let you know if you’re taking too long to order, and even toss a napkin in your face if they think you’re being too messy (or at least that’s what they did to me). No plates either…they just wrap your burger in paper and plop it down in front of your piehole. I loved it; you can’t beat quality entertainment like that.

The main reason The Apple Pan is still going strong after 60 years in business is that you just can’t beat their classic, juicy burgers. These succulent patties are obviously addictive and they haven’t changed a bit. My dad used to go to The Apple Pan in the 1970’s with his frat brothers at UCLA (probably in a state of “boozing recovery”), and he swears that to this day they have not altered the décor, service style, or any of the menu items one iota. For a city that is constantly modernizing, it’s nice to still have a taste of tradition.

What to Order?
They are famous for their Hickory Burger, but all the burgers are categorized as steak burgers, which is really what makes their meat so distinct. It’s like filet mignon on a bun, with pickles, a chunk of iceberg lettuce, government cheese, mayo and a wad of BBQ sauce! Be careful with how many modifications you make…they don’t take kindly to change.

You have to order fries with that; their French fries are the best I’ve had in years (thick, crispy, and hot!). And though you may feel too full, no trip to The Apple Pan is complete without a big piece of their infamous apple pie, à la mode. You may need a forklift to get out of the building, but it is all worth it for the taste of that sweet slice of Americana. Other signature dishes are the Egg Salad and Ham & Swiss Cheese Sandwiches, while the Tuna Melt is always a fan favorite.

Side Note:
-Bring CASH, because they haven’t replaced their register since 1959 and they don’t except credit cards.

-Most of the menu items are $6 and under

-Fridays & Saturdays it stays open till 1am…for the late-night cravings

The Apple Pan
10801 W Pico Blvd (Pico & Westwood Blvd.)
LA, CA 90064