Because we had an amazing response to our search for the best $100 hamburgers and fly-in food, we won’t be able to mention everyone’s favorites in this series. But we want to give a big thank you to all who sent in their rec­ommendations!

In this final installment, we’re going to look at some $100 hamburger joints and fly-in restaurants that offer something truly unique; a one-of-a-kind location, inviting décor, or cui­sine you just won’t find elsewhere. I hope this series has whet your appetite and stirred your desire for some new flying ad­ventures.

Zehnder’s Restaurant

William “Tiny” Zehnder Field Airport (66G)
Frankenmuth, Michigan

Website: www.zehnders.com
Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Friday-Saturday, 11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.

Zehnder’s world-famous chicken dinners have been enjoyed by millions of people over the years. Set in the beauty of Fran­kenmuth, Michigan, a traditional German town, they offer far more than a delicious meal. Take time to walk the streets and enjoy this inviting destination.

What Our Pilot Is Saying:

“Beautifully maintained grass strip. Call the restaurant and they will send the shuttle bus out to pick you up. Plenty of other things to see in this German-themed tourist town.”
Barry Hurst
Warren, Michigan

D.I.’s Cajun Restaurant

D.I.’s Cajun Restaurant Airport (LA52)
Basile, Louisiana

Website: www.discajunrestaurant.com
Hours: Tuesday-Thursday, 5:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.
Friday-Saturday, 5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Closed Sunday-Monday.

It doesn’t get any fresher than this! The crawfish D.I. cooks up with his special recipe are raised right on his farm. Enjoy the warmth of a family-owned restaurant and unbeatable regional cuisine.

What Our Pilot Is Saying:

“Fun, authentic Cajun restaurant and dance hall with a 3,000 foot grass strip.”
Bob Pool
Lake Charles, Louisiana

Rock & Roll Diner

Oceano County Airport (L52)
Oceano, California

Website: www.rockandrolldiner.com
Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 8:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m.
Friday-Saturday, 8:00 a.m.-8:30 p.m.

Listen to 50s and 60s rock while enjoying burgers, oak pit BBQ, and delicious shakes in 1950s-style decor. You’ll also find Mexican and Greek specialties on the menu.

What Our Pilot Is Saying:

“Located in two converted rail cars, the diner is a four-minute walk from the Oceano Airport. Walk out the gate, look to your right, and the rail cars are visible at the top of the hill. The menu has a huge variety, much more than just burgers — though there are more than a dozen of them. I am a huge fan of the chicken Philly sandwich. Your meal is ac­companied by 50s and 60s rock ‘n’ roll. Definitely a fun $100 burger stop.”
Art Friedman
Santa Paula, California

Hook and Ladder Pizza

M. Graham Park Downtown Airport
Branson, Missouri (KPLK)

Website: www.hookandladderpizza.com
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Sunday, 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.

This unique restaurant is in the old Hol­lister, Missouri firehouse. It offers hand-tossed pizzas and more in an atmosphere brimming with fun. The airport is just a mile from Branson’s business district, giv­ing pilots access to all the best Branson en­tertainment venues.

What Our Pilot Is Saying:

“Okay, so it’s not a burger. But they have the very best calzones on the planet and they have a cool firehouse theme once you’re inside. My kids loved it. We have made it a point to stop in there twice, even planning it as a lunch stop on our way to other places farther west.”
Cliff Mead
Huntsville, Alabama

Before heading back to the airport, wander onto the main campus and it feels like you’re stepping into Hogwarts or a classic English college. Sewanee’s campus is full of gothic-style sandstone buildings and students who are members of the University’s Or­der of the Gown often wear black gowns to and from classes.

*This article is not excerpted from nor related to John F. Purner’s book, The $100 Hamburger.