I remember loving this place as a kid, but since I moved to adultland I have not been back too often. Maybe it’s because of the drive or the lack of parking or the fact that my metabolism isn’t what it used to be, but all in all I have some delightful lactose-grease filled memories of the Malt Shop.

Located on 50th street off Bryant, the Malt Shop is sort of a neighborhood staple. The Blackbird Café recently opened up next door, but other than that the Malt Shop is the lone local dig. Since its opening in 1973 the Malt Shop has been serving up burgers, sandwiches and all that is fried and bad for your teeth to a group of loyal diners. I’m guessing they must be doing something right since they’ve been open for over 35 years. My personal favorite is the LS Burger with cottage fries. I originally ordered this burger thinking “huh, it has my initials in it; I think I will eat it”. I never actually found out what the LS stood for, but the burger was good so the other stuff didn’t really matter. I love the cottage fries too, they are something I have not been able to find at most other burger joints. Like a chip in shape, but closer to a French fry in texture, yum. Their cheese fries are also awesome and are covered in real cheddar instead of nacho cheese (not that there’s anything wrong with that). You might want to get your cholesterol tested afterwards.

I’ve tested my luck with some of their other menu items such as the Spinach and Mushroom Lasagna, but decided afterwards that maybe burgers are the things to stick to when at the Malt Shop, maybe an occasional sandwich. Their malts are usually a sure thing with lots of favorites to mix and match with. Strawberry, apple pie, chocolate, mint, butterscotch and peanut butter are just a few of your choices. They also have fig…who the heck orders a fig malt? There is enough to share if you and another person can agree on flavors. The pumpkin is awesome, but I’m also a fan of the chocolate and peanut butter.

The Malt Shop is definitely a casual dining establishment and is often advertised as kid friendly, which it is. I give the burgers, fries and malts a thumbs up, but the rest I could take or leave. They don’t serve alcohol (maybe this is just a deterrent to me) nor do they have a patio or any outdoor seating. Parking is street only. I would say there are some better choices out there, but if you’re in the neighborhood the Malt Shop can satisfy a burger or sugar craving for sure.