Powers Hamburgers is many things. Sure, it’s a diner. But it’s also a community landmark. An icon of Americana. The only remaining relic of a beloved Midwestern franchise that dates all the way back to 1935. The keys may have changed hands a few times since it opened its first Fort Wayne location in 1940, but the Powers name endures, much like some of the handwritten, hand-me-down recipes from original founder Leo Powers, still used today in their Coney and chili sauces.
When you walk into the 722-square-foot burger joint, your brain floods with nostalgia as your senses flood with the aroma of grilled onions—a scent that’s synonymous with their famous sliders. But it’s more than just the notable namesake that keeps Powers thriving more than eight decades later. It’s their commitment to the region that really makes them special. They source their ground beef locally from Didier Meats. They get their burger buns from Aunt Millie’s, another famed Midwestern institution. Their tiny space forces you to get cozy with fellow patrons. Doing business like that isn’t just how you build yourself up, it’s how you create community.
With a legacy like Powers, it’s no surprise that for their 85th anniversary, they had to go big. July 10th kicks off Powers Fest—a multi-day celebration of Powers pride that culminates in (hopefully) a new world record for the burger legends. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at Powers Fest:…