June 15, 2008

The "Stanleyburger" has become a regional staple of high quality burgers.

(TV Diner) - Open since 1932, the "Stanleyburger" has become a regional staple of high quality burgers and comfort food at Stanley's Famous Burger's.

The ultramodern-day diner is alive and well in Rhode Island, where there are two locations for Stanley's, a unique restaurant that's been around since 1932. The first Stanley's is in Central Falls, and the brand new second location is in Providence.

At both locations, the interior is just plain wacky, a colorful combination of old-time cartoon characters and futuristic lighting. You almost expect to see the Jetsons dining in one of the booths! The stainless steel open kitchen is so clean, it sparkles.

You can start off with a cup of chili or soup, or a fresh garden salad. That's about it when it comes to appetizers.

We went straight for the famous Stanleyburgers that are unlike any burgers anywhere else. A small mound of ground beef is pressed flat onto the hot grill, resulting in an odd-shaped burger pretty well done.

The secret ingredient is the grilled onions --- and plenty of them --- mixed right into the ground beef.

There are seven basic burgers on the menu, plus variations on those basic themes. Our favorite? The Double Cheeseburger, with extra cheese, served on a hot buttered bun. Even better than the burgers are the fries, especially the Quebec-Style Fries.

Now get ready for this heart attack on a plate: The excellent French fries are topped with brown gravy and shredded mozzarella cheese. We are not kidding! Definitely the most outrageous fries we've ever had!

We would have loved a beer with all this wonderful greasy food, but Stanley's does not have a liquor license. So we had to settle for a couple of very wholesome milk shakes --- rich and creamy and not too sweet, but sweet enough to serve as dessert. If your sweet tooth insists on a real dessert, we recommend the old-fashioned Apple Crisp and Grapenut Pudding.

Appetizers run from $3 to $5. Entrees are in the $2 to $14 price range. Desserts are all under $4. Expect a fun time, in a very affordable restaurant, with a super-friendly staff and real comfort food.

Overall, Stanley's earns the Gold Plate. Stanley's at 371 Richmond Street, in Providence, is open every day of the week, and until 2 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday for late-night munchies. For more information, call 401-270 9292

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