Golden-arch nemesis

Lots of places claim they make old-fashioned hamburgers, but Classic Burgers on Fulton Avenue isn’t one of them. In fact, Classic doesn’t claim anything at all. It just makes a good, decent burger—fresh lettuce, tomatoes, onions, etc.—like you used to be able to get everywhere before McDonald’s conceptualized the California Dream. Now, there’s nothing wrong with a quarter pounder with cheese, but sometimes you want your lunch to have at least some organic content. And Classic has something else Mickey D’s will never have: character. It’s the kind of place you’re not ashamed to hang out in on a hot, sunny afternoon. There are other options besides burgers, but my favorite order is a bacon cheeseburger with a side of square-cut fries and a large Diet Coke. Next time you’re out cruising the Fulton Avenue car dealerships, stop on in. You’ll need the energy once the dealer gets you in that little room.