Powers Hamburgers
Overview
Powers Hamburgers is an Oranjestad institution, proudly holding the title of the oldest hamburger stand in the city. Nestled within Tier 1 of Summit, this beloved eatery has been serving up its signature sliders since the early 20th century, becoming an essential part of New Orange City’s culinary landscape. Generations of residents and visitors have made it a must-visit, whether for a late-night bite after a night out, a nostalgic meal, or a simple craving for an old-fashioned, no-frills burger.
A Legacy of Flavor
Founded in 1928, Powers Hamburgers started as a small, unassuming burger counter that quickly gained a reputation for its thin, juicy sliders cooked fresh on a seasoned flat-top griddle. Unlike many modern burger chains, Powers has resisted the trend of expansion, preferring to remain a single-location staple, preserving its charm and authenticity.
The signature dish remains the Powers Slider, a thin beef patty smashed onto the griddle, seared to crispy perfection, topped with grilled onions, and served on a warm, steamed bun. Over the years, Powers has introduced slight variations, including double-stacked sliders, cheeseburgers, and even a limited-run breakfast burger, but the original griddle-seared simplicity remains the heart of the menu.
The "Hats Off to Quality Beef" Campaign
In 1988, Powers Hamburgers launched its most well-known advertising campaign: "Hats Off to Quality Beef." Created in partnership with Schenk Advertising, this campaign featured a series of print and television ads showcasing satisfied customers tipping oversized top hats to celebrate Powers’ dedication to fresh, high-quality beef. The slogan quickly became synonymous with the brand, and even today, some longtime patrons still raise their hats before taking their first bite in a nod to the restaurant’s history.
A Cultural & Late-Night Icon
Powers Hamburgers has remained a staple of Summit’s late-night scene, drawing in a mix of night owls, partygoers, and early risers. Positioned on Tier 1, Powers benefits from its close proximity to Summit’s nightlife hotspots, making it the go-to spot for a greasy, satisfying meal after a long night. Some of its regulars argue that a Powers Slider tastes best at 3 AM, accompanied by a side of crispy fries and a locally brewed Kismetic Pilsner.
The stand’s counter-style seating and open-kitchen layout allow guests to watch their sliders being made in real time, contributing to the lively, bustling energy that has defined Powers for nearly a century.
Famous Patrons & Legends
Due to its longevity and location, Powers Hamburgers has had its fair share of famous visitors, from local celebrities to political figures and underground musicians. Some of the most well-known (and rumored) patrons include:
- Former Deputy Mayor Augustus Brinwell – Allegedly had a Powers burger delivered to his office every Friday for two decades.
- The Band "Smoke & Rust" – Mentioned Powers in their 1996 song "Griddle Grease Nights", referencing the stand’s signature onions-and-grease aroma.
- "The Summit Standoff" (2003) – A now-legendary event where two rival city council candidates were seen arguing loudly over burgers at 1 AM, ultimately leading to a viral news story and a citywide meme.
Powers Hamburgers Today
Despite the rise of fast-food chains, boutique burger joints, and gourmet dining, Powers Hamburgers has remained unchanged— a living relic of New Orange City’s past, serving up nostalgia and flavor in equal measure. The stand’s grill has never been turned off in over 90 years, and longtime employees claim that its seasoned surface is what gives the burgers their unmatched taste.
While there have been attempts to franchise Powers, the owners have always rejected offers, maintaining their belief that Powers belongs to Oranjestad alone. With a steadfast commitment to tradition, quality, and affordability, Powers Hamburgers continues to thrive, ensuring that for generations to come, there will always be a hot, griddle-seared slider waiting on Tier 1 of Summit.