Corner location in Cookeville where Mini Burger once stood has been a revolving door
What was once a staple of the Upper Cumberland, a homespun, throwback diner with delicious mini burgers and crinkle-cut fries served on grease-stained paper, transformed in 2024.
Mini Burger.
Just the name itself brings back mouth-watering memories. For more than 50 years, the burger joint at the corner of Willow and Broad Street at 310 W Broad Street in Cookeville was a favorite among locals and visitors alike, but in August 2023 the restaurant announced it would close its doors for the last time due to financial struggles.
“After an incredible 50-plus years, it’s with a mix of nostalgia and gratitude that we announced the closure of our very own “small mom and pop burger shop” that we love,” said the burger joint at the time. “Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of creating lasting memories sharing heartwarming stories, and forging deep friendships within this community.”
The community wept. Well, some of them. Almost immediately, the property and building were scooped up. Hopes ran high that something great would fill the void left behind. Scotty D’s (SD) filled the space last summer, but not the void, and lasted only a few months in the spot before closing its doors on Sept. 25, 2024.
“This year has been a tough medical year,” SD posted on Facebook. “Scott (Danzig) had back surgery earlier in the year and now he needs shoulder surgery.”
SD’s says it plans to reopen elsewhere at some point, but as of this writing no word on when and where. Since then, another business has already set up shop at the corner of Willow and Broad. As 2025 begins, Guatemalteco Restaurant (GR) will serve up “Authentic Grilled Fajitas” in the building.
This writer hasn’t had the pleasure of partaking, yet. I should remedy that very soon. If Tory Chang on Cookeville Food and Reviews (a Facebook page that is just what the title says) is telling the truth, it sounds like an awesome experience.
“Just wanted to give a shoutout to the new Restaurante Guatemalteco where the old Mini Burger was, I went there with friends last week, and it was delicious. I had the empanadas … three of them took up a whole plate,” said Chang. “Ask for their spicy salsa too (it’s not that hot but has a good flavor), they have two kinds other than the regular table salsa which were yummy! There’s a pinkish one that was slightly sweet and not like anything I’ve had before. Maybe peach? My friends enjoyed their meals as well. Just a heads up on the empanadas though, they’re shredded chicken and have both tomatoes and onions, which I like! But I know some don’t, so not sure if you can order without. The server was attentive and friendly, and the food was fast, though it wasn’t busy. Anyway, cheers, we’ll be back.”
Will the third time be the charm? Time will tell. But, if the past year is any indication, replacing something as iconic as Mini Burger is no easy task. Maybe, it’s Fajita’s to the rescue.
UCBJ photo.
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