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The Apple Pan
Master Critic Reviews (4 Lists)
The Apple Pan
8.8
A classic counter-service burger and pie spot since 1947, The Apple Pan draws steady crowds for its Hickoryburger, steak burger, and seasonal pies. The outdoor seating added in recent years gives dog owners a practical way to enjoy the old-school charm without leaving pets at home.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hickoryburger, Steak Burger, Apple Pie
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Iconic mid-century burger counter with a devoted local following.
Who should go: Burger traditionalists, pie lovers, and Westside locals.
When to visit: Afternoons before peak dinner lines build up.
What to order: Hickoryburger, steak burger, a slice of apple pie.
Insider tip: Use the patio for shorter waits and to sit with your dog.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but can be challenging during peak dining hours, especially weekends; no valet offered.
Dress code: Casual attire preferred—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are all welcome.
Noise level: Moderate—counter seating has a lively hum, but you can easily hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Typically 30-45 minutes for counter or patio seating; lines can be longer after 6pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually little to no wait before noon; quick turnover keeps things moving.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—classic grilled cheese and sides are available, but menu skews toward meat.
Vegan options: Very limited—no dedicated vegan items, but some sides like fries may be suitable.
Gluten-free options: Not explicitly offered—no gluten-free buns or pies, but burger patties and sides may be possible without buns.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want relaxed vibes and classic comfort food; it’s not fancy, but the nostalgic setting can spark easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—the Apple Pan does not take reservations. Arrive early for shorter waits, especially for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Definitely; ages 5 and up do well here, with counter seating and simple menu items kids enjoy. Outdoor patio is helpful for families.
Best For
Better for: Old-school burger experience, quick service, and a pet-friendly patio—all with a loyal local vibe.
Skip if: If you need gluten-free or vegan entrees, seek alternatives; also skip if you want upscale decor or quiet ambiance.
The Apple Pan
8.5
An iconic West Los Angeles diner known for its classic American burgers and pies, The Apple Pan delivers a nostalgic business lunch experience with sturdy, flavorful staples perfect for quick and satisfying meals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hickory Burger, Steak Sandwich, Dutch Apple Pie
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Classic American diner experience with legendary burgers since 1947.
Who should go: Casual diners and quick business lunch seekers.
When to visit: Weekday lunch hours for efficient service.
What to order: Hickory Burger, Steak Sandwich, Dutch Apple Pie.
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for a true vintage vibe and quick service.
The Apple Pan
8.7
The Apple Pan is a timeless diner operating since 1947, famed for its counter-only seating and legendary Hickory Burger. Locals gather for classic pies and burgers long past midnight, with quick service and a bustling yet nostalgic atmosphere. It's an essential Westside spot for craving comfort food after hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hickory Burger, Steak Burger, Banana Cream Pie
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.3
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Iconic counter-only diner famous for pies and burgers.
Who should go: Classic American food fans and night owl locals.
When to visit: Post-concert, late night Fridays or after midnight.
What to order: Hickory Burger, Banana Cream Pie, Steak Burger.
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for fastest service and best people-watching.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available, but can be scarce during peak hours and after 7pm; no valet service, so arrive early or expect a short walk.
Dress code: Casual is perfect—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers fit right in with the laid-back diner vibe.
Noise level: Bustling but manageable—conversation is easy across the counter but can get lively late at night.
Weekend wait: Expect to wait 20–40 minutes, especially after 9pm when it draws late-night crowds.
Weekday lunch: Typically a brief wait of 5–15 minutes; counter seats turnover quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—classic grilled cheese, fries, and pies are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Very limited—mostly side items like fries; main menu centers on dairy and meat.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free options; substitutions not available for buns or pies.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a nostalgic, casual setting where the food is the star and conversation flows easily—great for a low-pressure date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations—just walk in; patience is key, especially on weekends, since it's counter-only seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Ideal for kids ages 6 and up who enjoy burgers and pies; seating is at the counter, so toddlers may need supervision.
Best For
Better for: Late-night comfort food cravings, classic diner atmosphere, and quick service after midnight.
Skip if: Skip if you need vegan, gluten-free, or private seating—consider alternatives for specialty diets or larger groups.
The Apple Pan
8.7
Since 1947, The Apple Pan has been a local institution serving classic burgers with timeless appeal. The hickory burger, cooked on a well-seasoned griddle, is a standout, paired with old-school service and a retro lunch-counter vibe. Locals and night owls frequent this spot for late-night burgers and their signature banana cream pie.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hickory Burger, Steakburger, Banana Cream Pie
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 9.5
What makes it special: A timeless counter with burgers perfected over 75+ years.
Who should go: Classic burger lovers and local night owls
When to visit: Weekends after 10pm for true late night
What to order: Hickory Burger, Steakburger, banana cream pie
Insider tip: Sit at the counter for front-row griddle action.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, can be tight after 7pm—no dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Super casual—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are the local uniform; no dress code enforced.
Noise level: Moderately lively—counter chatter and sizzling sounds, but you can comfortably hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 30-45 minutes after 8pm, especially for counter seats.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:30pm; brief lines if you arrive after the lunch rush.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited—veggie sandwich and sides, but most menu highlights are beef.
Vegan options: Very limited—fries and pickles only; no vegan mains.
Gluten-free options: Not specifically accommodated—buns are standard, no official gluten-free menu.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great for low-key, nostalgic dates—especially if you want laid-back vibes and classic comfort food, but not ideal for fancy or private dining.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's walk-in only, but expect a wait during peak late-night hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for kids ages 6+, with counter seating and friendly staff; no kids’ menu or high chairs, but families visit often.
Best For
Better for: Late-night burger cravings, classic Americana atmosphere, and solo counter dining.
Skip if: You want a full vegetarian or vegan meal, gluten-free options, or a large group table experience.