Anchor Bar and Grill — Review by Food Network
Superior, United States — American Burgers, Dive Bar
Anchor Bar and Grill in Superior, Wisconsin is a legendary dive bar serving exceptional burgers made fresh daily from locally sourced beef ground every morning. Owner Adam Anderson continues his father's 1977 tradition with an impressive menu of 18 burgers featuring creative toppings, all at unbeatable prices. The quirky staff, including longtime manager Bean, and the dive bar atmosphere make this a must-visit burger destination.
What was great: Fresh burgers made daily with high-quality local beef, creative burger varieties with unique toppings like cream cheese and green olives, bacon, and cashews, excellent value with a pound burger for $5.50, friendly and quirky staff with great personality, long-standing family business with legendary status in the community
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The star of Anchor Bar and Grill is undoubtedly their burger selection. With 18 different burgers on the menu, there is something for every palate. The beef comes from a local meat packing company that grinds 120 to 140 pounds fresh every morning, ensuring quality and freshness in every bite. Among the standout creations are the cream cheese and green olive burger topped with bacon, the cashew burger which offers an interesting salty contrast, and the Galli Buster, a massive one-pound burger with three slices of cheese that lives up to its hefty reputation. The Anchor California burger is another popular choice. Each burger features a perfectly balanced crust from the flour and cornmeal breading, with tender and juicy meat inside. The toppings range from traditional mushrooms and Swiss to more adventurous combinations like jalapeños and piles of bacon.
The Experience
The dive bar atmosphere is authentic and welcoming, with a long-standing reputation in the Superior community. The restaurant has been a family business since 1977, when Adam Anderson's father purchased it. The staff adds significant character to the experience. There is a charming bell system where staff ring a ding ding to alert customers when their food is ready. Longtime manager Bean, whose real name is Jean Pretty, has been managing the establishment for 32 years and is beloved by locals as a kind of second mom to the community. Owner Adam Anderson, who started cooking at age 15 and attended culinary school before returning to the family business, brings passion and expertise to the operation.
Value and Pricing
The pricing at Anchor Bar and Grill is exceptional. A one-pound burger like the Galli Buster costs only $5.50, representing outstanding value in today's restaurant market. This affordability combined with generous portions and quality ingredients makes the restaurant particularly appealing to both locals and visiting Triple D fans.
Notable Moments
I come to this place because they serve good food, big portions, and I just love it.
Where can you get a 1 lb burger for only $5.50? You can't beat it.
Bacon burger. These are the best burgers around.
The Verdict
Anchor Bar and Grill is a must-visit destination for burger enthusiasts willing to make the trek to Superior, Wisconsin. With fresh, locally sourced beef, creative flavor combinations, reasonable prices, and genuine dive bar charm, this restaurant represents everything that makes local establishments special. It is perfect for anyone seeking authentic, delicious burgers made the old-fashioned way, served with genuine hospitality and attitude by staff who treat customers like family.