If you have lived in Fort Wayne any amount of time, you’re most likely familiar with Powers Hamburgers. The diner has been part of the Fort Wayne landscape since 1940, famous for its sliders, coneys, and chili (don’t forget the cake, either!). The burgers sold for just a nickel each in those days, and while the price has risen, each is still made with the flavorful taste customers have come to love and expect. The diner’s nostalgic appearance is a big draw for customers as well, with bar stools and windows looking out on the town. At Powers, you truly feel you’ve stepped into a delicious past–in the best possible way.
Powers Sliders
The secret to Powers’ success is no doubt its food. The delectable ground beef comes from local supplier Didier Meats. Over an ounce of onions, sliced paper-thin, are cooked with each burger, carmelized to perfection. The soft buns, from local favorite Aunt Millie’s, are steamed right on the grill to take in that meaty flavor. The chili and coney sauce recipes, handwritten by founder Leo Powers, are still in use.
Powers History
Going strong now for 85 years, Powers is one of the Fort’s longest-running restaurants. The Powers family ran it until 1999, and then Mike and Gloria Hall stepped in for a few decades prior to the Salvatori’s restaurant family taking ownership, in 2024. Tough times hit that year, when a kitchen fire forced a brief closure.
But Powers has bounced back, winning Fort Wayne Reader’s Choice Awards for both best local burger and best historical landmark. The iconic outdoor neon sign has been remade. The restaurant hosts special events and promotions frequently, including a Slider Eating Contest and a Father’s Day Build-A-Burger box for a DIY Powers experience.
Setting a World Record
This summer, the restaurant is planning a week of events you’ll want to take part in. It’s called Powers Fest, and will be held July 10-16.
Thursday, July 10: Powers will be open until 2 a.m., with a free coffee mug going to the first 12 Powers Packs (pack of 12 sliders) sold after midnight…