Powers Hamburgers
Fort Wayne, IN Photo courtesy Alan Culley
Small buildings sometimes leave the biggest impressions, and Powers Hamburgers is a perfect example. The glowing neon sign has been welcoming hungry customers to this downtown Fort Wayne favorite since the restaurant opened in 1940, making it one of the city's best-known hamburger stands. 07-07
Powers specializes in old-fashioned sliders that are cooked on a bed of onions using the same recipe that's been served here for generations. The little diner once had company, as there were several Powers locations around Fort Wayne, but today this is the last one carrying on the original family tradition.
The restaurant has changed hands a few times over the years, but the focus has remained the same—great burgers served in a classic setting. In 2024, the famous neon sign was completely restored and relit, giving one of Fort Wayne's best-known landmarks a fresh glow while keeping its vintage look intact.
If you're a fan of old diners, roadside neon, or just a good hamburger, Powers is well worth adding to your list.
UPDATE: Powers Hamburgers remains open in downtown Fort Wayne. The historic diner continues serving its famous sliders, and the classic neon sign has been beautifully restored. 06-26
Powers Hamburgers has been a Fort Wayne burger institution since 1940. Located in an art deco styled building, Powers is located in the downtown area and is known for their sliders and dishes such as the Garbage Plate. 01-12
Powers Hamburgers
Fort Wayne, IN
Photo courtesy Richard Weiss
Word is the average eater at Powers orders 3 to 4 burgers
Ernie's Coffee Shop (Rem.)
Sault Ste Marie ON, Canada Photo courtesy Alan Culley
The neon sign at Ernie's Coffee Shop was one of the best-known sights along Queen Street in downtown Sault Ste. Marie. Lit up at dusk, it was the kind of classic diner sign that made you want to stop in for a cup of coffee or a good meal. 06-14
The restaurant has been a downtown fixture since the early 1970s, although the sign itself dates back even further. Originally installed in 1957 for Larry's Coffee Shop, it was updated when Ernie and Judy Febbraro purchased the restaurant in 1972, giving the old sign a new name while preserving a piece of the city's history.
Over the years, Ernie's became known for its friendly atmosphere and hearty comfort food, earning a loyal following from both locals and travelers. In 2020, the restaurant entered a new chapter under new ownership, with an updated menu that built on its long-standing reputation.
Unfortunately, the famous neon sign didn't fare as well. After being damaged by a delivery truck in 2021, it had to be removed. Thankfully, it wasn't lost. One side now resides at the Sault Ste. Marie Museum, while the other has been preserved by a local collector.
UPDATE: Ernie's Coffee Shop remains open in downtown Sault Ste. Marie. Although the original neon sign was removed after being damaged, both halves were saved and preserved. 06-26
