Depot Street Burger & Malt Shop in Rogue River, Oregon

A trip to Ashland was scheduled for mid-day so thought it would be nice to have lunch out.  Checking my restaurants.com coupons I found a new listing for a burger and malt shop in Rogue River. 

Located at 121 Depot Street, one could easily pass by this small, unassuming business.  As I entered the door I was immediately confronted with a number of 2^nd amendment posters, one such offering a 10% discount for CCL holders or open carry individuals.   Wanting to test the system I quickly pulled out my CCL permit and presented it to the gentlemen standing behind the counter.  Neal, a gun enthusiast himself, quickly confirmed that the discount was a valid offer.

A family business which has been in existence for over 30 years was purchased 2 ½ years ago by Robert and Rexana Caldwell.   Inside you will find a small and intimate setting. I counted half a dozen bar stools so one could sit at the counter or 4 to 5 tables with seating for 4.  Be sure you place your order before sitting down.   

The menu selection included specialty burgers named after the states.  Choosing between such choices as the Oregon, Idaho, Iowa, Hawaii or a Texas burger was difficult but I felt compelled to order the “Oregon” burger which included bacon, mushrooms and ranch dressing.  Neal was very accommodating when I asked to have avocado added.  Next was selecting the choice of home fries, regular fries or tater-tots.  I opted for the home fries because Neal said they were his favorite. 

Now. . . .what to drink.  I quickly perused the milkshake selection and the words “peanut butter” seemed to jump out at me.  Nothing like a great old fashioned peanut butter milkshake.  Not one from a machine like you might get at McDonalds, but one that is actually made like we used to get them back in the good old days – hand scooping the ice cream into metal containers, adding the milk and peanut butter and mixing it on one of those old fashioned milk shake machines.  I couldn’t wait to try it.

As I waiting for my freshly prepared food – no fast food stuff here – I was approached by a patron who walked up and asked if I would like to hear a joke.

This appears to be typical of the patrons around here.  Very small town, friendly atmosphere where everyone seems to know everyone. 

When my “Oregon” burger arrived I was impressed by the size of it.  It was served on a very fresh hoagie roll, piled high with sautéed mushrooms, bacon, a double beef patty, ranch dressing and my optional avocado.  I wondered if my jaw might lock up trying to get my mouth around it.   I asked Neal for Ranch dressing for my fries and I laughed when he brought me 2 bottles.  One of ranch dressing and the second which he called his special ‘pink sauce’.  I tried the special sauce and was pleasantly surprised, using it on my fries instead of my typically preferred ranch dressing.

It proved to be a great stop for lunch and I could certainly recommend it for a great burger, fries and shake.

You can check them out  at facebook.com/depotstburger or give them a call at 541-582-0959.