The Return of Reno’s Most Iconic Eats
Reno is a proud city of destiny and heritage. Nevertheless, it is constantly changing. The former glory days of mining, the transcontinental railroad, ranching, and renown as the “Divorce Capital” have given way to gaming and entertainment. And as this happened, the culinary legacy of Reno changed too.
Those whose homes have been in the Biggest Little City still harbor memories of certain places and tastes that are irreplaceable. Smells and flavors trigger nostalgic memories for simpler, happier times. But like old photographs tucked away in grandma’s attic, some of these lost Reno food gems have been recovered and, thankfully, come back.
The Legendary Awful Awful Burger at Baldini’s
One of the best and most celebrated comebacks is undoubtedly the Awful Awful Burger at Baldini’s Casino. This isn’t just a burger; it’s a Reno food institution. For years, the Awful Awful was a staple – a monstrous, delicious creation that lived up to its name: “Awful Big, Awful Good.”
The original recipe, with its generous portions of seasoned ground beef, special sauce, and thick-cut fries, was legendary. When Baldini’s Casino closed its original café, the Awful Awful Burger disappeared, leaving a void in the hearts and stomachs of locals, seemingly forever.
The outcry when it passed spoke volumes about its everlasting popularity. But thankfully, Baldini’s Casino in Sparks, NV, listened. And the Awful Awful is back – just as good as ever! The massive patty, the tangy sauce, the mountain of fries – it’s a taste of Reno’s past revived. The return of the Awful Awful Burger is more than just a menu item; it’s a symbol of community, tradition, and food nostalgia in Reno.
The Resurgence of Reno’s Classic Diners & Local Food Scene
Beyond the iconic Awful Awful, some of the best classic Reno diners and eateries have also made a comeback, bringing nostalgic flavors back to local plates. While the city has embraced modern, upscale restaurants, there’s a growing appreciation for old-school diners, delis, and coffee shops.
These places serve up the simple, honest food that defined Reno’s culinary scene for decades. Think hearty breakfasts, towering sandwiches, and homemade pies – the kind of meals that nourish both body and soul. In a city where trendy food spots come and go, these classic establishments offer comfort, nostalgia, and authenticity.
Lost But Never Forgotten: Reno’s Culinary Ghosts
Not all of Reno’s beloved local favorites have been so fortunate as to return. Some are gone forever, living only in memory.
One cherished example is the legendary “Swiss Dip” sandwich. Remember that from the old Reno Sparks Nugget coffee shop? A simple yet sublime roast beef sandwich dipped in savory au jus, it was an absolute favorite. The warm, welcoming Nugget’s coffee shop is gone now, lost to time and renovations.
Another lost Reno food legend is the original “Taco Time” recipe from the early days of the franchise. While Taco Time still exists, longtime fans swear that the taste has changed. That original seasoning blend, the unique taco assembly – those early flavors were special. They’ve never quite gotten it back.
Preserving Reno’s Food Heritage
These lost culinary treasures remind us that food is more than just sustenance – it’s a link to our past. The return of the Awful Awful Burger, alongside the revival of classic diners, highlights the importance of preserving local culinary traditions.
As Reno evolves, these food icons remain symbols of resilience and nostalgia. They remind us that in a fast-changing world, some things are worth holding onto, worth savoring, and worth celebrating.
Where to Find the Awful Awful Burger in Reno
For a flavorful blast from the past, don’t miss the opportunity to chomp down on the Awful Awful Burger.
Savor the memories!