Ian and I have been stuck in a bit of a rut lately. Not relationship-wise (love you boo), but food-wise! We have not been sticking to our motto of trying new places. Instead, we’ve been choosing to go to our old standbys and favorites. So last weekend, we made a pact that we would mark off at least one new place on our list. Since it opened, one place we have heard a lot about is The Friendly in North Park. We first heard about it on our Bite walking food tour. Our awesome guide knew the people who were opening it. After it opened, we continued to hear good things about it. We had to check it out!

The Friendly is a tiny (counter seat and like five two-top tables), hole-in-the-wall joint that serves… wait for it… pizza and burgers? You heard me right. Interesting combination, huh? They also do a special of the week that is basically whatever they feel like making. When we went it was a ham and pimento cheese sandwich. I’ve heard rumors that sometimes it’s foie gras burgers. They make pizza by the slice or whole pies. It’s your typical, nostalgic pizza slice. Made with tasty, chewy crust and expertly flavored sauce topped with plenty of different options. It’s greasy, hot, and satisfying. If I remember correctly, the crust recipe was brought over from Italy (if that’s not true… someone feel free to fact check me).

The burger is simply a classic. It’s a fresh made, dirty flat top burger. We believe it must have butter on the patty (possibly garlic butter). It’s a good, no-frills burger. It’s just two patties, grilled onions, melted cheese, mayo, and a toasted bun. Juicy, meaty, cheesy, and reminiscent of an easier time. Possibly the best part? It’s only $5!!! Finish it off with a bottled Coke and you will feel like you’ve been transported back to the 1950s or 1960s.

If you’re in the neighborhood, go check out The Friendly for some no-fuss burgers and pizza. It’s definitely one of those spots that seems to prefer its status as a hidden gem, and definitely has its share of regulars. I imagine it’s also a haven for late night partygoers in search of some greasy, filling food!