Schlenker’s Sandwich Shop

Schlenker’s Sandwich Shop does offer regular sandwiches such as a ham & cheese or a BLT. But, it is the burgers that have been enticing customers to this humble little restaurant in Jackson, MI since 1927.

I ordered the double cheeseburger with “everything”. It is delivered on wax paper already cut in half. The patties are loosely packed, juicy quarter pounders, which fit just right on the ultra-soft Aunt Millie’s bun. The sweet and tangy everything sauce is a combination of mustard, relish and onion, which works well with the melted cheese on top of the burger. The meat is delivered daily, which they grind in house every morning and there is no mistaking the freshness and high quality of this ground beef. While the double cheeseburger is the top seller, the bacon cheeseburger and the olive burger are other popular options.

Schlenker’s offers the standard sides like fries and onion rings, but I couldn’t pass up the unusual fried cauliflower. These irregular shaped nuggets have a thick, flavorful coating and a half order is more than enough to satisfy most appetites. To drink, ask for a can of soda (preferably Vernors Ginger Ale) out of the cooler, served with a straw, but not a glass.

There are only 15 stools around the “U”-shaped counter and when they are busy, you will be elbow-to-elbow with your neighbor. Schlenker’s is cash only and is closed on Sundays and Mondays. One note of warning: they are known to close early if they run out of hamburger meat, so it would be a good idea to call ahead.