This North Carolina Drive-In Burger Joint Is So Beloved, Locals Refuse to Let It Modernize
Roll down the window and you can practically taste the salt air and chili from the parking lot at El’s Drive-In.
Locals swear by it, and honestly, after my first Super Burger, I started swearing right along with them. Nothing here tries to look new, and that is exactly the point.
If you want a time machine that serves fries, you have found the ignition key.
The Super Burger Carolina Style
Buckle up, because the Super Burger does not use turn signals. Chili, slaw, mustard, and onions stack into a glorious mess that requires napkins and a sense of adventure. I took my first bite and immediately decided the car seats could be detailed later.
Here is the magic: the patty stays juicy while the chili brings gentle heat and the slaw cools it down just enough. The onions add that crisp snap, like a high five for your taste buds. You will not need extras, but you will want them anyway.
Shrimp Burger Legend
Challenge accepted, shrimp skeptics. I went in cautious and came out a believer, thanks to a bun stuffed with crisp, golden shrimp and cool slaw that kept everything balanced. The first crunch told me I was officially on Team Shrimp.
The seasoning is coastal without being heavy, letting the shrimp stay the star. Each bite is clean, bright, and satisfying, like a perfect beach day without the sand. Order fries if you must, but the shrimp burger can fly solo.
Carhop Charm and Ritual
Service here is an art form performed on asphalt. You pull in, stay comfy, and a carhop appears with a grin that could power the neon. On sweltering days, they still move like pros, balancing trays and good vibes.
It feels personal every time, like they remember your order and your last laugh. I once rolled up after a long beach dive and the sweet tea landed before my sunglasses came off. Efficiency tastes even better with chili cheese fries.
Fries, Rings, and Sides That Matter
Crunch speaks louder than words, and the onion rings do the talking. Golden, audible, and never greasy, they vanished from my tray faster than I am willing to admit. The fries are straight-up comfort with or without chili and cheese.
When the craving hits, add chili for a cozy, spoon-free situation. The sides play backup but steal scenes anyway. Bring friends, or plan to defend your basket like a goalie.
Old-School Atmosphere, Zero Pretense
Nostalgia lives here without trying. No shiny screens, no buzzy gimmicks, just a clean lot, a handwritten vibe, and the soft hum of happy engines. I ate with the windows down and the Atlantic air made the ketchup taste better.
Shaded picnic tables wait under big oaks if you want to stretch your legs. The setting is simple and that is the victory. Food this honest does not need stage lighting.
Local Love and Loyal Traditions
Community sticks to this place like mustard to a bun. You will see beach crews, divers, families, and old-timers nodding at one another between bites. I once traded napkins for a hot tip on the best fishing dock.
Locals guard the classic setup with pride, and consistently strong ratings across review platforms reflect that loyalty. Modernize it and the town might riot, politely. Tradition tastes better when everyone is invited.
What To Order First
Decision fatigue ends here. Start with the Super Burger Carolina Style, then split a shrimp burger so no one gets food envy. Add onion rings for crunch and a chocolate shake because balance matters.
If you want hot dogs, go all the way and thank me later. Keep napkins within reach, like a seatbelt for saucy moments. Pace yourself, because round two arrives fast.
Plan Your Pit Stop
Timing saves cravings. El’s typically opens around 10:30 AM, but hours vary seasonally and they remain closed on Thursdays, so checking ahead is a good idea.
Most menu items cost well under $12, making it an affordable coastal stop.
Roll up to 3706 Arendell St and call ahead if you like, but spontaneous visits taste best. Parking is old-school and a little tight at night, so take it slow. Your reward is hot food and zero pretense.