Pappas Drive-In at New Smyrna Beach, Florida

Pappas Drive-In from New Smyrna Beach was added to it in 2010, shortly after I created it. My “U.S. Eats” list grows day by day as I discover some spots or, as some of you suggest, your favorites.

I knew that Pappas Drive In (1103 N Dixie Fwy, New Smyrna Beach) was one of only about ten restaurants in Florida that is a real drive-in with real deal curb service.

When I’m talking curb service, I mean not only taking your order from you while in your vehicle but also bringing the food and putting it on a tray hanging off your window.

Yes, old school as in the kind you see in those films trying to recapture that 1950s glory period of restaurants.

Pappas Drive In Grub Talk

Marcela and I look over the extensive menu even though we know that the burger is a must and that I can’t resist a patty melt either. Their homemade chili rounds out our order as we skip out on trying the fries or onion rings.

I’m just one spoonful in when I put down my cup of chili to look over the menu again. Nope, there are no hot dogs on the menu, which means there is no possibility of a chili dog.

Damn. I don’t regret missing out on the other side dishes cause this chili makes up for it. The Patty Melt looks right on and tastes pretty righteous, but the 1/4 lb Cheeseburger won this match.

Honestly, take a good look at the burger. It doesn’t look like much. The 1/4 lb patty was dressed up with diced onions, pickles, mustard, and cheese on a sesame seed bun.

We almost got into an Over The Top match over this guy, which spilled over into our shared soft drink. He was worth the battle, but we should have ordered two soda pops.

Pappas Drive In Menu