The Past: Just The Way You Remember It
Like a childhood memory of trouble-free times, The Burger Inn Melbourne is a delicious taste of the past.
The classic drive-in style burger joint, which originally opened in 1952, is located on U.S 1 in Melbourne, just north of Eau Gallie Boulevard. The current and newest owners, Mike and Marina Mauro reopened in January 2014 after a cleaning and remodel to restore the nostalgic reminder of the past.
Best known for… no surprise here, the burgers. They are grilled fresh to order and served with a choice of toppings on a toasted bun that will melt in your mouth. Select from “all the way” with mustard, pickles, lettuce, tomato and onion or make your own selections. (Try it with grilled onions.) All the food is cooked to order on the original grill which is perhaps the secret weapon to the tasty fare. The most popular items include bacon cheeseburger and bacon double cheeseburger.
“People say we have the best bacon,” Mike said.
The couple who wanted to open a business together, actually lowered the prices when they reopened in order to offer quality food at affordable prices, especially for families, as the couple has five children themselves.
“It brings you back to your childhood,” Marina said. “Come here, be happy and enjoy.”
The menu also includes hot dogs and sides like fries and onion rings. Handmade malts, milkshakes and root beer floats are a sweet addition or dessert. All the food is made to order.
“Oldies” music plays in the background as the wait staff, some who are dressed in “poodle” skirts serve diners. Customers can drive-in and dine in their car, sit in the outdoor patio area or a small indoor counter.
The small inside space is reminiscent of a fifties diner, the décor features red, black and white colors and nostalgic memorabilia. The 
restaurant also hosts classic car shows every first Thursday of the month.
“We’re bringing back the good ol’ days” Mike said.
A statement that is reflected in the atmosphere as Mike and Marina work, some customers are regulars that are known by name. Others are simply passing by and curious why there is always a steady crowd at the roadside restaurant. Compliments from customers roll in from the staff as Mike mans the grill.
“It is not really work for us,” Marina smiled. “We plan on keeping it forever.”
The Burger Inn
Address: 1819 N. Harbor City Blvd., Melbourne
Phone: (321) 254-2211
Web Address: Facebook.com/TheBurgerInn
Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
This article appears in the May 2015 issue of SpaceCoast Living.
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