Giant Burger

I LOVE Giant Burger! You will never find a burger closer to homemade *anywhere.* From their hand-formed 100% beef patties, to the toppings piled high on a bun, to fresh, REAL french fries, this place can't be beat.

You can get sliders, mini-dogs, salads, chicken and veggie burgers- there's something here for everyone.

The only unfortunate part of this particular establishment, and the reason we don't visit more frequently, is the video poker machines in the back room- and the resulting wafts of cigarette smoke that permeate the atmosphere.

Papa's Pizza Parlor

I remember Papa's Pizza on Main from my youth. The big hamster wheel, the ball pit, flavorful, mouth-watering pizza with stringy cheese that could stretch for a mile.

Perhaps it's that I'm adult now. My palate has changed, my criterion for choosing a restaurant have evolved beyond the play equipment. I just don't feel the same about Papa's that I used to.

The play area is dated and smells of pee. The playground attendants are still the same killjoys they always were- but now they're too busy glowering or texting on their cell phones to keep kids from beating each other senseless. Why not hire an attendant who will actually interface with the kids, maybe one who even likes them?

The pizza used to be so delicious my father asked me to mail him him a slice cross-country. They've changed the cheese, and I'm not sure what they did to the crust but it tastes like squeezie cheese on a saltine. The tops is usually greasy.

I have to say the salad bar is still excellent. The shrimp is always off, though. I always get it frozen when I ask for it on the side for my salad. And salad or pizza, the shrimp usually has shells.

It's always been an irritation that you have to purchase drinks separately, but thankfully they finally installed a card reader at the drink counter.

I miss the occasional organ player, though, which lent a joyful atmosphere.

The place is still as busy as always, though, so they're doing something right!

O Bar

The O-Bar is a TINY place situated in the midst of college apartment complexes right at Autzen Stadium's doorstep. As such, it is constantly crowded and loud. It has a great patio seating area and even a second mini-bar, but of course this is where the smokers flock. I don't particularly enjoy a hefty noise-level, nor the company of early 20-somethings looking to hook up. This may well be a draw for you, but I always recommend against visiting this venue unless I'm out with people I don't necessarily want conversation with ;)

Prices are average-to-high, the food is mostly fried, and there's always a game on the televisions overhead.

PROS: Sweaty young-hunks in football uniforms!
CONS: Smelly, loud college kids.