I ordered the grilled Cajun chicken w/ cheese lettuce tomato onion... let me tell you Swenson's must be under new management the chicken was cook all the way through the cheese aww man was melted just perfect the lettuce was was crisp the freshest I've ever had from them the tomatoes was sliced just perfect I dug right in no photos sorry I even called in and told the manager thumbs all the way up!! lol the jalapeño bombers was so tasty!! The perfect late night snack!! read more

Service was good, gentleman taking are good was nice and fun to talk to. Not much to say about the location. It's old and clean, but you're eating out of your car so it doesn't matter much. The food... I just am not a fan. The galley boy has sweet tartar sauce and barbecue sauce on it, on a sweet roll. I'm not a fan. The regular burger isn't much better, there's no maillard on the burger meat so it is in my opinion just a worse McDonald's burger. And I'm not really a fan of a McDonald's burger either. The onion rings and potato teasers are great, as well as the Ohio drink. My friend got the banana pudding shake that was good as well. But for a place known for their burgers I wouldn't go out of your way unless you like really sweet burgers. read more

Only 2 more weeks left to try James Beard Finalist & Akron native Chef Vinnie Cimino's Pimento Burger collab between Swensons & Cordelia featuring delicious hand-made Pimento Cheese & Kool-Aid Pickles! The Peach Cobbler milkshake sip of the month was so good! And of course we had to get the Potato Teezers with Ranch! one of my favorite quick service lunch spots! read more

Swensons Drive-In - Sandwiches Near Me - Akron, Ohio

Everytime I visit home I HAVE to stop by swensons. I love that sweet meat!!! The potatoe teasers Nate bomb too. The only thing I noticed is the burgers are smaller. read more

If it were owned by Ducks and Geese, it'd be Swansons. If it were owned by hopeless romantics, it'd be Swoonsons. And if it were owned by people who cuss a lot, it'd be Swornsons. But it's not, so let's get on with the review. What to get: A Galley Boy! What not to get: Infections or rashes from an Alley Boy. Are you saying you've gotten those: No comment. If it were owned by Nike, it'd be Swooshsons. If it were owned by Michael Phelps, it'd be Swimsons. If it were Swiss and told the time, it'd be Swatchsons. If it were owned by pigs, it'd be Swinesons. OK I'll stop. This Swenson's gets it done, it's delicious, hot, full of flavour, as indeed most of them are. Some of the best burgers you'll ever have if you're looking for fast-food burgers. One of my favourite fast food chains in the world and it's only available in northeastern Ohio - and long may it stay that way - because the fact that it's so limited and specific to the region keeps it absolutely incredible, and it hasn't slipped in quality just yet. And still, the galley boy Remains the best burger in America in a fast food sense. The burgers here are otherworldly. Make sure you get the Galley Boy, and make sure you eat it while it's piping hot. These things are always served up piping hot, burn-your-mouth-hot, so make sure you take advantage of that the way that one ex took advantage of you two summers ago. So what it is? It's basically a melty gooey cheesy saucy burger on what seems to be brioche, with tasty thin-patty meat (double), and something that is sort of like McDonald's Big Mac sauce but much better on it. It comes wrapped in foil with an olive on a toothpick stuck in the top. A delicious green olive, no less. These things are dirt cheap (like, under $3) and hearty. Two of them will fill you up, one is perfect for a snack. And... If it were in a medical testing facility, it'd be Swabsons. If it were owned by muscle dudes and muscle girls, it'd be Swolesons. Or maybe Sweatsons. If it were a mouthwash manufacturer, it'd be Swillsons. If it were a high school where people's heads got stuck in toilet bowls, it'd be Swirliesons. It's a drive-in. Turn your lights on for service. Turn them off when you don't need service. The service at Swenson's is 50's style, with young adults and tweens running from car to car to take and deliver orders, and yelling out what the orders are as per company policy. Tip them - it can't be easy to run around and yell the way they have to. I'm sure it's a confidence-builder though. And if it were a place where you go with your significant other to partner swap and watch freaky people getting it on, it'd be Swingersons. It wouldn't make you nervous, if anything you'd be restless, because you've been around and you've seen it all. Then at home you'd get the munchies, but not for twinkies. Instead, you'd want a Galley Boy. And I don't mean an actual boy. Though if you're anything like me, you want that too. Which is yet another thing common you and I both have in common with Tove Lo. read more

See all

too much bread, not enough burger. ( too small ) way too greasy fries, burger isn't put together properly; it's sloppy. Galley Boy isn't big like it used to be. read more

One of the Best Burgers in the World - And It Lives Up to the Hype! Swensons is a true Midwest gem, and it's no surprise that their burgers have been hailed as some of the best in the world--they absolutely live up to the reputation! The Galley Boy, their signature double cheeseburger with two secret sauces, is perfectly juicy, flavorful, and unlike anything else. Every bite is the perfect mix of savory, tangy, and a little sweet, making it clear why Swensons is a fan favorite. This particular location also has a bit of history--the very first Swensons restaurant was originally located just a few feet away from this building. It's cool to think you're enjoying one of the country's most iconic burgers right where it all began. Beyond the burgers, the classic drive-in experience adds to the charm. Pull up, turn on your headlights, and a friendly carhop rushes out to take your order with incredible speed and service. This makes a great date night, outing with friends, or nice dinner with the family. The onion rings, potato teezers, and hand-spun shakes are all must-tries, with so many shake flavors to mix and match. Hint: try the Cajun style onion rings. So amazing! Whether you're a longtime fan or trying it for the first time, Swensons is a one-of-a-kind experience that's well worth the visit. One bite, and you'll see why it's been ranked among the best burgers in the world! read more

Service Service Service. I know the food is good. But when the young lady who waits on cars decided that chit chatting with someone was more important than making money, I left. You know it's time to go when people showing up after you are getting service. And my lights were on. read more

Really good. Pretty quick service compared to other swensons, very nice workers who are very helpful

Colin was quick and very helpful. We placed a big order, including shakes and the food was hot and tasty.

Very Busy. Pleasant friendly staff. Thirty minute wait!! These folks really hustle. Great work out running out to all the cars. I noticed an additional side parking lot for an expanded service area. What a concept. They should be playing some Grease movie music. Food is a tasty greasy burger. Pack it on!! read more

Swensons Drive-In - Hiring!! - Sandwiches Near Me - Akron, Ohio

See all

The absolute best!! The food is beyond delicious and no matter what you order you drive away thrilled and full!! read more

Swensons Drive-In - Our favorite spot to hit when we come to Akron, Ohio! - Sandwiches Near Me - Akron, Ohio

Omg!!!! Decided to eat here after our visit to the Lebron James museum because it's his go to spot. We are from California (Land of In N Out burger heaven) and the Galley was sooooo good! The service was A+ too. Those guys hustle and serve with a smile. You have to try it! read more

Swensons Drive-In - Menu - Sandwiches Near Me - Akron, Ohio

My grandmother designed the lettering and menus etc back in 1934 so this business is very special to my family. I am leaving a review to Recommend Sadie and Alex at this particular store for this evening. Service was great. Food always awesome. Thank you for continuing to be part of our family tradition. My grandma was Bettie Rogers and please know that you are part of a continuing legacy that is swensons!!! There is no other burger place like it nor will there ever be! Thanks grandma and all you great workers for so many wonderful years!!! read more

No matter which location you visit, the food stays the same! And that's delicious goodness. Went to both this location and the one on Hawkins ave. Standard pull up, keep your lights on, someone runs to your Car and takes your order. If you don't know what you want they place something in the window, tell you to turn off your lights while you make your decision and then turn them back on when your ready to order. You get your food and either way right there or drive off! Suchhhhhh a perfect set up. Not sure if they have a bathroom to use for customers but this is alllll to -go no dine in! The people working there are usually kids but with great manners. The burgers tho! Seasoned and just good for no reason! The bread is warm and perfectly soft. They have a ton of add on veggies and sauces and their CHEAAAAP! I just make my own usually. Onion rings are HUGE and the cookies and cream shake taste exactly like the name. If your in town, it's a MUST try! read more

My week-long quest to find the best hamburger in Akron is in full swing. Today I made my way into Swensons, it was obvious from the beginning they would be on the list. I am a returning customer and a fan but have never graded their burger in a competitive situation. Does it stack up? Yes...it most certainly does. It's easy to see why this turned into a little local franchise because it is that good. The fact that the servers still need to run to your car is a little strange and out dated but that does not affect the review. Bottom line, great taste in the meat and it is a juicy flavorful burger. The fries are also a cut above average. There is some stiff competition but things are starting to get interesting!!! read more

Swensons Drive-In - Double Cheeseburger French Fries - Sandwiches Near Me - Akron, Ohio

A local chain, Swenson's hands down wins the battle of the burger in Ohio. And fully aware I shall be called a heretic but preferable to the Whataburger. Juicy and available custom built these are the real deal. Mine was dressed in sweet pickle, grilled onion and a touch of ketchup. Nirvana! read more

See all

My boyfriend and I came here last. We ordered 2 things, A galley boy and a xango. Why were we waiting 30 mins!!!??? When we arrived, it took them almost 10 mins to come out and take our order, he came out again to ask what we ordered again??? then he came out mins later with a galley boy and a milkshake. After waiting so long, We left with only a galley boy. This swensons needs to hire new workers. Their currents ones must be suffering from dementia as their comprehension skills don't allow them to complete a two item order without needing a reminder read more

Good service, decent food, cheap. Not bad at all, but I really wanted the caramel apple milkshake that they apparently didn't have. read more

Swensons Drive-In - Don't advertise a caramel apple milkshake if you don't have it. - Sandwiches Near Me - Akron, Ohio

The burgers taste great but I spent 20 minutes waiting for a simple double hamburger, fries, and a milkshake.

Very disappointing! After giving us our food, our server just vanished. The sandwiches were lukewarm but edible. The tots were cold, hard, and overcooked. I put my lights on, hoping to catch another server's attention to ask for a replacement, but we were just ignored. By the time our server came back, I had given up, and asked that the tots be taken off the bill. Server then disappeared again. Had to wait another 10 minutes before managing to flag down the server to pay the bill. Food was NOT good and the service was absolutely atrocious. We will not be returning. read more

I was back in Akron for a visit and craving a good burger and Skyway was closed, so I went to Swenson's. I ordered a cheeseburger, onion rings, and a black & white milkshake (vanilla ice cream with chocolate syrup). The "burger" was basically a lettuce, tomato, and condiment sandwich with a slice of burger. At less than 1/4" thin, I have NEVER EVER seen a burger patty so thin. You couldn't even taste the burger. A total WTF fail. The onion rings tasted like frozen ready-made, devoid of any onion crunch or flavor. The shake (was it even a MILK shake?) also tasted like it came from a ready-made mix. On the plus side, the service was faster than I'd experienced before and the servers were good, so a star for that. The food was a big disappointment, unrecognizable from what it was the last time I was at Swenson's a few years ago. From now on, it's only Skyway for me. read more

What happened to Swenson's? The quality of the burgers has diminished so much that the McDonald's across the street just might be the better option. I've eaten here since childhood and they went too far with whatever changed they made to the food. We may not have noticed the changes from A-C, but definitely noticed when it got to D. The patties are thin, the cheese barely melts, and the burgers are smaller. However the price are still pretty big for what is being offered. Seriously, McDonald's might be better at this point. Sad, because the founders of this restaurant built a legacy of delicious burgers and shakes only for it to be diminished for franchising purposes ("allegedly"). I've been to 6 NEO locations and they all are disappointing in my opinion and my food has been cold after waiting for it to come out. read more

I didn't like the burgers. The fries were ok, but after we ordered, it took a bit to get our food. The service was alright, but I highly doubt i would ever eat here again. The online menu was also deciving, and some of the stuff on the website wasnt actually able to be ordered. read more

For the last three or four weeks the consistency in product has declined. Three or four of my last orders of French fries have been disappointing. There is nothing worse then old, crispy fries. Despite asking the car hop for fresh fries the orders came out old, luke warm and crispy, like potato chips, with bits and pieces in the bag. Just recently on October 31 I sent back an order asking for another, but fresh. The replacement order was the same. Apparently the staff doesn't care or doesn't know the difference. What's so difficult? When your dealing primarily with hamburgers and French fries, there shouldn't be a problem, especially during peak times. If my experience was an isolated incident I would understand. Unfortunately this seems to be the norm. Where the heck is management? read more

I doubt very seriously if the "Galley Boy" I had this visit which was my first was exactly the same Swenson's has been serving since their opening in 1934, but I'm quite sure it is as unique as it was when the founder served the first one. In an age where there are so many crafted burger joints popping up serving prime beef with organically grown vegetables served up on gourmet buns this burger is more nostalgic than than tasty in my opinion. Oh I'm sure the generations of followers might be somewhat offended by that statement, but it's a fact - we all drool when thinking about the food we ate when we were kids and that's okay, but I find more often than not that I'm disappointed when I try and relive those days and would be much better off keeping the memories in tack and pass on the disappointment. For those of you who haven't had the opportunity to partake in their offerings, here's my take on the Galley Boy - two small "signature" patties (maybe 3 ounces each) with some kind of cheese with two special proprietary sauces served on a small toasted bun, was it good uh yes it was also different but not great but yes I'm glad I ordered it. It's kind of a bucket list item of sorts, I can mark it off the list now and move on. The fries were also unique, fried crispy retaining some of the grease which always enhances the flavor. The best of the best- it's a toss up, I can't really decide if it was the exceptional service or the outstanding thick 'n rich banana shake, both were equally amazing. I agree everyone should at least try them once and rest assure even if the masses flock here there will be plenty of parking for those that continue to hold this burger above all others... read more

See all

This is the one of two locations I've been to and from what I can recall it always took at least 20-25 minutes or more for my food. Which would be fine if it tasted fresh and hot but it didn't. I suggest a different location or skip it and go to McDonald's. The food is about the same at this point but the wait is quicker. read more

Amazing burgers as always. Tried their Tots after years of always having the fries, and they were delicious. The California always hits the spot. Stopped on the way home from my son's WABL game, and our server Max made a point of talking to him about baseball, asking him what positions he played and if they won. Max also talked to him about how he played in WABL too. Max said he was new, but you would have never guessed it. He was amazing. read more

Dear Yelpers, I know, you think What-A-Burger is great. You probably rave about In-And-Out...but you haven't lived until you've had The Midwest's best fast food burger. Swenson's is a NE Ohio staple and for a good reason. Most people love them some galley boys. A double cheeseburger with all the toppings. Me, I'm partial to a good double cheeseburger with ketchup and Mayo. But don't worry, no matter what you get, they gonna put that sweet butter on the toasted bun that is sure to light up those tastebuds. (It's a sweeter burger, so if you aren't into that, take your childish taste buds somewhere else :D) I love to add some potato teezers with Cajun spice and wash it all down with a milkshake! (I normally choose between grape and banana) If you are here, you have to stop. Your friendly neighborhood foodie P.S. don't go to Skyway. read more

We went here as broke college students after an event and left with tummies full. We also have a more than exceptional experience with one of the employees Dan. He complimented our car karaoke and made sure we had everything we needed!!! Thank you Dan!!! (sorry if we embarrassed you) read more

Swensons Drive-In - Three Girls after Swensons!!! - Sandwiches Near Me - Akron, Ohio

One of my fav late not food stops. Everything is always delicious. Prices can't be beat either for the quality of the food! Service is always quick and staff is so kind and helpful. read more

If you want a burger or something new to try. You will be quickly greeted by your server like that. They aim to please and last time I was there it was a double burger with Mustard Pickle Onions, a side of fryers , and a California beverage. It hit the spot and I left with a Happy Tummy. read more

They changed the fries not like the fries was anything good in the first place because I always ask for fresh fries. From the freezer to the grease I would beg. But no just re dropped fries from the warmer. the only time the fries were good is when the open sign came on. But they changed the fries completely it's like a cheap seasoned style breaded crunch that you would buy from save of lot or something like that. Burgers are still great but I never get the fries at the same place but instead have to travel across the street to Papa gyro to get their delicious fries that Swensons used to have if they're were fresh of course read more

This Swensons may appear a little dated at first glance. But still earned a 5 star in my book! I have never been to this location but drove by and I was immediately craving a Galley Boy! For those of you who have never been to a Swensons, you stay in your car and the workers come to you to take the order! The service was fast and friendly! My friend & I were both very pleased with our orders & how fast they both came out. I ordered a PBJ milkshake (which I highly recommend) along with a classic Galley Boy (which always hits the spot!) Current menu & pictures both attached * read more

See all

One of the best swensons to go to when youre hungry and in need of good food. Austin Fischer always treats me right and will forever get a nice tip from me ! Hes so nice , patient , gave me good advice on what to order and how to order it ! Always makes sure my onion rings are well done , chopped with cajun how like them , everyone there keep up the good work ! read more

Oh my goodness... we're from Oklahoma... was driving by looking for a place to eat, so glad we pulled in! Ordered the Best Strawberry Milkshake I have ever tasted! We ordered the SloppyJo and the Galley Boy with everything. Even though my mom would die that I paid for a sloppy Jo , it was great. We had the potato teezers which they seem to be famous for and they did not go waste. Car hops are on top of their game! Zane hustled right up , took our order and picked our tray up and collected his tip. For those who have never dined here it is a Must! read more

See all

Ordered teezers. After a 15 minute wait, they came. On my way home looked in bag, only 4 teezers and they were cold. Tried to call to get more and take the order back but their was no answer. read more

Swensons Drive-In - Sandwiches Near Me - Akron, Ohio

People treat Swensons like it's Akron gold, and I think what they mean to say is it's Akron tradition, it's full of memories, meet ups, parking lot parties, youth and nostalgia. I may get backlash for this but it is not that great. I lived out of state for some time and came back and was so excited for Swensons so I tried it and I thought "this is it?" ... so I tried it again and felt the same. Their burgers are average, if you're going to relive or create good times yeah you will get all of that but if you want a good burger - look elsewhere. That being said they do have a grilled cheese that's decent especially if you want to get creative and order the potato teezers to put on top of it. And their ice is amazing. read more

I've argued with people about this, but in my strong opinion, this is "the good Swenson's". Always get my order in quick and don't wait long for the food. Can't say that for Montrose. Galley boy is a top notch greaseball burger. Reminds me of those up-all-night shacks around Chicago. Potato teezers [sic] are my salty, slightly-spicy, very-fatty kryptonite. I want the shakes to be great, but have found them to be average. read more

Hands down the best burger restaurants in town! I'm absolutely IN LOVE with the galley boy! They do come a little bit pricey and if they're busy, they may take a little while to bring your orders. But I still highly recommend! read more