Ted R.
Yelp
It's a rare thing when a restaurant you love returns from the dead, but that's what happened at Convention Grill. Although it opened in 1934, it closed a few years ago, seemingly forever. However, they are now open at the same location and with what looks to be, the same menu (but with higher prices).
Food: Between us, my wife and I had a cheeseburger ($12.90), a hamburger ($11.95) a half order of fries ($7.95), and a chocolate-coffee shake ($9.95).
The hamburgers, although not overly large, have a great steak-like taste. The ratio of fat to lean was perfect, as was whatever cuts of beef they use. This is a top-notch burger! There are extra charges for cheese, tomato and lettuce, or any other ingredient. The hamburgers come with sliced pickles and a good-tasting bun.
The portion of fries is enormous. We split the half-order and still had half of the huge basket left over. I recommend getting the "side order" fries for $5.95 (enough for two people). I'm sure the "regular size" would feed a little league team. The fries are skinny, skin-on fries that I suspect are fried twice. They have a great potato taste, are served fresh and hot, and are equal to the hamburgers in terms of quality.
The shake was tasty, but a bit melty or overly liquid in my opinion. I don't think they are as good as the ones I have at Fifty's Grill, but they are still worth getting. The "large" fills two glasses, so it can be split.
Honestly, I struggled with the rating, as to whether to give it four or five stars. For food, service, and ambiance, it deserves five stars. However, I do struggle with the price. For one hamburger, one cheeseburger, French Fries, and a shared milk shake, should this meal be $51.75, including tip and tax? That's a lot of money for lunch, considering what we ordered. I would love to know their prices before the pandemic and see what is the percent increase. Ultimately, I picked five stars because:
1. The quality of the food (and service) is excellent.
2. I would like to see this long-time fan-favorite restaurant do well.
3. The did not include any required junk-fees on the check.
I do think it will be interesting as to how "price-elastic" customers are willing to be for eating basics such as hamburgers at a lunch place diner.