It’s a good time to be in Old Towne, as two killer concepts opened for business on Monday. An Orange County first for one, not only are they in the same neighborhood, but they’re a couple of doors apart from each other. Talk about close!
First up, former On the Line subject Joseph Mahon brings Burger Parlor to the college town. With an increased number of beer taps, diners will have no problem pairing with his juicy menu. Those with a sweet tooth can opt for a creamy shake of banana nutella, cap’n crunch or one of their other seven flavors. Our favorite bite from a recent preview was their Frito Chili Cheese Burger (photographed). Find Burger Parlor at 149 North Glassell Street.
After originating in downtown Los Angeles and expanding to an outlet in Pasadena, the sweet and savory delights of The Pie Hole decided to try their luck at 177 North Glassell. Open as early as 7 a.m. during the week, closing time is midnight on Friday and Saturday. Offering their own brand of fair trade organic coffee, we anticipate crowds filtering in after dinner and Chapman University events for a caffeinated nightcap. We are partial to a slice of Earl Grey Tea, but sense a breakfast pie duel in our future.
Does this pocket of Orange contain a little bit of everything? Let’s see— liquid nitro ice cream, waffle joint, speedy pizza, juice bar, gastropub, Burger Parlor and now Pie Hole. We’ll say the next entry will have hot dogs, although a parking lot would make this Weekling happier.
A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.