What you're getting: The Director
Whether you’re heading to Big Bear to hit the slopes and drink in a lodge or hit the trails and drink in a cabin, you're gonna need to stop in and get the burger (seriously) at this ‘50s-style shack. The Director is the move: two 1/4lb patties sizzled on the griddle with American cheese, grilled onions, crispy lettuce, tomatoes, and the "special sauce" -- though they've also got an all-business semi-secret menu, where you can get that dude Raccoon-style (banana peppers and extra onions), FX-style (grilled in mustard, extra spread and pickles), or Spicy-style (grilled in spicy sauce and jalapeños). Oh, and the tater tots smothered in cheese, sour cream, chives, and bacon bits? Also, obviously, well worth the investment.

GET THE BURGER, named the 2nd best independant hamburger in the Inland Empire. For 10 years, Eric Schwartz served the burgers at fund-raising backyard barbecues.

He serves up a savory half-pound double patty with cheese complete with lettuce, onions, tomato and secret sauce. As for that sauce, it really is a secret--his own mums-the-word recipe.

There's something of a secret menu--or at least a certain way to order your burger, as long as you're in-the-know. When you approach the counter, wave the cashier in closer to know you want yours FX style (grilled in mustard, extra spread, with pickles) or Spicy Style (grilled in spicy sauce with jalapenos). You'll crave an encoure. (SS)