Pasadena is well known as the home of the Tournament of Roses Parade and the Rose Bowl. But it was in 1924 that a 16 year old fry cook invented what would become known as the Cheeseburger.
Lionel Sternberger burned a hamburger patty at his father’s roadside stand, The Rite Spot, on Colorado Street (as it was then known). Rather than throw the burned patty away, Lionel covered up his mistake with a slice of cheese. The hamburger with cheese was called the Aristocratic Burger – for 15 cents!!
The Road Scholar explores the history of the cheeseburger, starting at the location of the Rite Spot, then ventures across Pasadena to try a couple of classic burgers from In and Out and Pie n Burger, and tastes a burger from a newcomer to the Pasadena Cheeseburger scene at Five Guys.
Learn more about Pasadena Cheeseburger Week at www.pasadenarestaurantweek.com